MEET THE DIRECTORS
Karyn Roseman Miller, Owner/Director
Karyn Miller is the owner and director of Cactus Day Camp, a beloved summer destination for children throughout the Valley. Her passion for camp began in childhood, spending her summers immersed in both overnight and day camps. That lifelong enthusiasm grew into a professional journey that started at Banner Day Camp in Illinois, where she worked as a counselor, teen director, and assistant director, eventually leading to her role as associate director at Lake of the Woods and Greenwoods Camps in Michigan.
With a desire to bring a high-quality, traditional day camp experience to Arizona families, Karyn founded Cactus Day Camp. A certified teacher, she holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction. She also served as principal of Fountain Hills Charter Montessori School from 2007 to 2013, deepening her expertise in youth development, curriculum design, and leadership.
Karyn has been an active member of the American Camp Association since 2001 and has served as an Accreditation Visitor since 2003, helping uphold safety and excellence in camps across the Southwest. From 2018 to 2022, she also served on the ACA Southwest Local Council of Leaders. Today, she leads Cactus Day Camp with the same passion and purpose that inspired her from the start—creating a safe, warm, and joy-filled camp community where children can thrive.
Jenna Tucker, Assistant Director
This summer marks Jenna’s 12th year at Cactus Day Camp. Affectionately known as “Jenna the Winna,” she has grown with CDC through nearly every role imaginable—from lifeguard to counselor to Gym Games instructor—and now serves as a full-time year-round team member supporting both operations and leadership. As Assistant Director and Park Ranger of the Older Camper Area, Jenna brings unmatched energy, reliability, and heart to every part of camp.
Her passion for working with children extends far beyond the summer. Jenna has taught second grade in PVUSD, worked as a PE instructor, and spent many years babysitting, all of which contribute to her strong rapport with campers and staff. A proud Grand Canyon University alumna, she holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a master’s degree in Elementary Education—and even competed as a pole vaulter during her time there. Jenna continues to be an essential part of the CDC community, embodying the spirit and joy that make camp so special.
Victoria Ptak, Assistant Director
This summer marks Victoria’s 11th year at Cactus Day Camp. She graduated from Northern Arizona University with a bachelor’s degree in Conservation Biology and later earned her master’s degree in Secondary Education from Grand Canyon University. Throughout her years at camp, Victoria has embraced a wide range of roles—including counselor, cooking instructor, creative creations instructor, and park ranger—bringing her talents to just about every corner of camp.
After five years as a high school science teacher in PVUSD, Victoria transitioned to a full-time year-round position at Cactus Day Camp. She now serves as Assistant Director and co–Park Ranger for our younger camper area, working alongside Bryan to support staff, guide campers, and help create a safe, structured, and memorable experience for our campers.
Bryan Salley, Assistant Director
Bryan returns for his 12th summer at Cactus Day Camp! A proud Arizona State University graduate, he holds a degree in Child and Human Development along with a teaching certificate in early and special education. During the school year, Bryan teaches 2nd and 6th grades in Mesa, where he specializes in supporting delayed readers and English Language Learners. His experience, patience, and ability to connect with kids of all abilities make him a natural fit for camp life.
At CDC, Bryan has worn many hats over the years—counselor, archery range master, and now co–Park Ranger for our younger camper area alongside Victoria. No matter the role, Bryan brings enthusiasm, creativity, and heart to everything he does, helping our youngest campers feel safe, supported, and excited for each day at camp.