Our 2016 Staff! - City and County of Broomfield

Our 2016 Staff!
Grace Belton
Hi I'm Grace! I am a graduate from
Broomfield High school Class of
2014. I am entering my Junior year
at Hastings College on a track
scholarship. I am majoring in
Human Services and hope to one to
become a caseworker. I love
working with children. I have had a
lot of past and present background
with children from babysitting. I am
a very outgoing person, I love to try
different things, and try to make the
best of everything. I am super
excited to be a camp leader this
summer and I can't wait to have a
lot of fun!
Karley Neal
My name is Karley Neal, and this
summer will be my third summer
working at Camp Explorer. My first
summer I was a leader for the Torrey's
and my second summer I was a para
and mostly worked with the Crestones.
I am a junior at the University of
Northern Colorado and am studying
Elementary Education with an
emphasis on ESL. I worked at Child
Sitting at the Paul Derda Rec Center for
2 years, and then moved to Camp
Explorer.
Meg Tocci
My name is Megan Tocci, and I'm a junior
studying History and Political Science at
the University of Northern Colorado! I
have been a certified babysitter/nanny
for seven years, and I frequently
volunteer at church youth programs, and
was a music teacher at Peak to Peak
Charter School's youth acting camp for
three years. I also spent part of the
summer of 2013 working with children at
orphanages in Port-au-Prince and
Montrouis, Haïti. In my free time I love
to sing, act, and Irish step dance.
Ben Jacobs
I just finished my sophomore year at Colorado State University where I am
studying construction management. I was born and raised in Broomfield, and
am a graduate of Broomfield High School. I spent a summer coaching for
Broomfield's CARA Track program, and this will be my second year with Camp
Explorer. Last summer I had a ton of fun with the quandaries and can't what
to see what's in store this year!
Emma Gee
My name is Emma Gee and I recently
graduated from Legacy High School as the
student body president. A few interesting
things about me are my initials spell my last
name backwards (Emma Elizabeth Gee), I
collect hot sauce bottles, and when I grow up I
will be a healthcare lawyer. Next year I will be
running cross country and track for Brigham
Young University. I have quite a bit of
experience working with children as I have
been babysitting for nine years and run
multiple summer soccer camps for kids.
Previous work experience includes soccer
refereeing, head farm hand, and babysitting.
Katie Hyde
Hello! My name is Katie Hyde. I have spent the last year working for Camp
Explorer. I am attending Front Range currently and will be finishing up my
business management degree at Regis University.
Sophie Jacobs
Hi! My name is Sophie, I recently graduated
from Broomfield High School and this fall I'll
be attending Brigham Young University with
a major in sociology. For the past seven
years, I've played flute, and for the past two
years I have also played tuba. I've been active
in marching band, concert band, pep band,
and several symphony orchestras--my senior
year I was section leader. I volunteer at a
middle school band program every Thursday,
teaching music to the middle schoolers there,
and I love it! I also have a little sister, and two
dogs at home who I love spending time with.
Whenever I have other free time, I like being
with my friends and reading.
Matthew Atkin
I worked previously at ChickFil-A and got some great life
lessons from working there. I
am currently studying criminal
justice at NJC. I love anything to
do with the outdoors which
makes this program great for
me to show my attributes.
Wendy Weber
This is my 8th year at camp. I am looking forward to helping the staff and
campers have a successful and memorable summer camp experience.
Maria Gesicki
My name is Maria Gesicki. I am a senior at Legacy
High School in Broomfield, CO and will be
graduating this May. I will be attending Colorado
State University next fall to study Music with an
emphasis in voice. Music has always been a huge
part of my life, along with dance, hiking, and
spending time with family and friends. I am very
excited to work as a camp leader this summer and
create relationships with all of the kids. My goal is
to offer a safe but extremely fun and encouraging
environment so everyone's summer is one to
remember.
Ty Garner
My name is Ty Garner and I am a junior, majoring in Environmental Studies with minors in Spanish and Studio Art at
Nebraska Wesleyan University. I am studying to eventually attend graduate school for sustainable design and green
architecture. After my undergraduate education, I hope to join the Peace Corps for two years in a foreign country to assist
with environmental restoration. At school I participate in various school organizations as the President of the Greenhouse
Project, coordinator of New Student programming, president of Homecoming Committee, an Admissions Ambassador,
and as a student assistant in the Career Center. In my free time I shoot archery, sing and play the piano and guitar, and I
love to cook and spend time with my family and friends.
This will be my fourth year at Camp Explorer and my second year as an Assistant Director. Last year I was an AD for
the Crestone age group, and I am excited to be the Quandary Assistant Director this year. I absolutely love Camp Explorer,
and I believe that it is the best summer program I know of for children of all ages. Each summer I look so forward to
coming back to work, because when I get to work with children, it is such an incredible and rewarding experience. I am so
excited and ready for this summer and I can't wait to start with a new age group and see what this years group of kids will
have to offer! My first summer I worked with the quandaries and I am so happy to be returning to such a wonderful age
group of children.
Hannah Barnes
Hello. My name is Hannah Barnes. I have worked with children
my entire life. From the time I was old enough, I babysat all ages
from infant to high schoolers. I earned my Bachelor's degree in
Special Education from the University of Northern Colorado in
2010 and my Master's degree in Education: Curriculum and
Instruction through the Arts from Lesley University in 2014. I've
been teaching for four years now. My first year I taught Special
Education in Ft. Collins and for the past three years I've taught
second grade in Louisville. During the summers I've always
worked for camps and keep coming back because of the kids and
FUN! My husband and I just got married last September and we
love to spend our time outdoors and spend time with our family.
I love shopping, snowboarding, and making the most of life! I look
forward to this summer and meeting you and your child!
Sarah Kochevar
I love working with kids, which is a huge reason why I would like to be a
teacher. I have been babysitting since I was eleven years old with kids ages 6
months or younger to 12 year olds. I will be attending University of Northern
Colorado starting in the fall for music education. I love singing, dancing,
acting, drawing, painting and having fun!
Mikayla Marshall
I am currently a student at Broomfield High School. I have been working with
kids for quite some time through my church. I have worked with any age
between birth and 8th grade but I have a heavy emphasis in the younger ages.
I love to work with kids and do arts and crafts. I have also been in band for all
years of high school and am currently a part of the National Honors society at
my school. I have a huge heart for working with kids and traveling to third
world countries and cities to help on mission trips.
Sydney Weiss
My name is Sydney Weiss and I'm so
excited to be working at camp this
summer! One of my favorite things
to do is work with kids. I have
assistant directed children's
choruses and dance classes in the
area for the last three years. I'll be a
sophomore in the fall at the
University of Northern Colorado
pursuing a degree in music
education.
Alexa Morgen
One of Alexa's many passions is working
with kids. She has babysat for five years,
volunteered for many organizations and
kids programs, and has coached
beginning figure skating for the past
year. She's a honors student at Horizon
High School, where she is a part of the
school's marching band. Alexa loves
music and figure skating, which both
play a prominent role in her life.
Amber Smith
I have been working with children since I was 14, starting with babysitting for
my neighbors. As soon as I turned 16 I began working in after school care, and
five years later I still love it. Currently I am a senior at Metro State University
studying to become an elementary school teacher. This is my second year at
camp, and my second year with the Pikes. I am looking forward to a fun
summer!
Chris (Topher) Caroll
This is my 5th year with camp! I was a prior
camper. I am currently a Army ROTC cadet
at Colorado State. I am studying criminal
justice and will receive my commission as a
2nd lieutenant in the US Army upon
graduation. I will be attending U.S Army
Airborne School this summer.
Gabriela Jimenez
Has experience being around children and babysitting younger cousins, and
nephew. Currently a student at the University of Alaska Fairbanks seeking a
degree in Psychology with a Sports Management minor. Is also a student
athlete (basketball) who participates in volunteer projects with kids in the
community in Alaska. Wants to pursue a volunteer position in the Peace Corps
in child development.
Angela Gesicki
After completing her Bachelor's Degree at Colorado State University
in December, Angela was excited to begin putting her degree to use as a
music educator. She is now working at Malley Drive Elementary as the Music
Teacher and is excited to continue this new adventure for years to come.
Angela’s passion for music is multiplied exponentially in the
experience of showing or leading others to discover their own unique
talents. Her gift to teach has been affirmed through positions with Adams 12
and Poudre School Districts, Broomfield Parks and Recreation, Fort Collins B.
A.S.E Camp, and Chick-Fil-A. There is no greater joy than to be instrumental
in leading someone else to discovering gifts and talents within.
In addition to her love of music and teaching, Angela enjoys singing in
her a cappella group, coaching and playing softball, and spending time
laughing with her friends and family.
Angela is very excited for the opportunity to spend an adventurefilled summer with all of the campers.
Andie Von Collin
I go to Colorado State University and I am studying Biomedical and Mechanical
Engineering there. I play rugby, volleyball, and run long distance. I love
working with kids! I used to teach piano lessons and babysat all through
middle school and high school. I love being outside and staying active, and I
cannot wait for summer!
Jonathan Walquist
HI. I'm Jon Walquist, and this will be my
second year with Camp Explorer. I just
graduated from Broomfield High School
(yay!), and am on my way to the University
of Texas to study English and Japanese. I
love to write; I love to play Trading Card
Games, namely Pokemon; and I love the
smell of summer. I have enjoyed my
experience with the kids so far, and I look
forward to this year.
Zane Garcia
I have been with Camp Explorer for the past Four years as both a Camp Aid
and an Assistant Director. I recently graduated from the University of
Northern Colorado with a Major in Psychology and Minors in Criminal Justice
and Film.
Janelle Dean
I am extremely excited to start my first
summer as a camp leader! For the past 4
years, I've had the pleasure of working as
a babysitter of children ranging from 1-13
years old and interning at local schools. I
enjoy shopping and playing tennis in my
free time. This fall, I will be pursuing
Speech Pathology at Purdue University.
Megan Neal
I am a Senior at Colorado Mesa University in Grand
Junction and am getting my degree in Elementary
Education. I will still teach in the Fall and graduate in
September. I started working with kids when I was 13
years old. I started by babysitting, and when I turned
16, I was hired at Child Sitting at the Paul Derda Rec
Center. I worked there for 3 years before I started
working for camp. This will be my fourth summer
working for camp. I was a leader for 2 years and this
will now be my 3rd summer as Assistant Director. I
enjoy hanging out with friends, baking and reading.
Devan DeFreece
I am looking forward to fun-filled summer with Broomfield's summer camp!
This is my first summer working at the camp and I can't wait to get started.
Some of my hobbies include coaching club volleyball, being around family and
friends, drawing, and looking for spontaneous adventures. I will be a
freshmen in the fall at Colorado Mesa University where I plan to study Athletic
Training and Kinesiology. I hope to meet you soon!
Natalie Nitchoff
I am going to be a junior at Colorado State University studying hospitality and
management. I did teacher cadet in high school meaning I got to student
teach for two years in a first grade and a fourth grade class. I am an
apprentice for the dance company LA Dance Magic so I travel the country
performing as well as teaching and assisting dance classes for kids of all ages.
I also teach dance in Boulder to a variety of ages. This is my second year at
camp and I am so excited to be back!
Nicole Hicks
I have worked with with children of all ages for
about 8 years. I love help kids grow and learn
new things. I am super excited to have the
opportunity to work with both,the amazing
staff, and kids this summer at Camp Explorer. In
my free time I enjoy reading, writing , and
spending time with my family and friends. I
think that this summer will be an amazing
opportunity for both my self to grow, and to
help the kids grow as well.
Ben Gibble
I use to be a babysitter for two years. I worked at Flatirons Community
Church for two years in the daycare for kids ages 3 to 4. Some of my hobbies
include soccer, skiing, hanging out with friends, and long boarding. I was
attending Adams State University and playing on their soccer team but am
transferring to Red Rocks Community College to get my degree in Fire
Fighting, and pursue a career in that.
Bridget Admire
Hello! My name is Bridget Admire. I just finished my
junior year at The University of Northern Colorado. I
am studying Speech Language Pathology with a music
minor. I want to eventually be doing therapy with
children, and I am really looking forward to leading all
of the kids at camp this summer! I ran a children's
theatre camp for two years so I love encouraging kids
to play and be creative! In my spare time, I enjoy
performing- such as singing, dancing, and acting, and
I also love baking, doing arts and crafts, and watching
movies. Final fun fact about me: I absolutely LOVE
cheese.
Edrisa Gharibyar
Hello! My name is Edrisa and I am a
student at the University of Colorado
Boulder, majoring in business. I have been
working with children for 3 years now at
the SAC program at BVSD schools, but have
also volunteered at many other children
oriented organizations. I love to go hiking
in Boulder and explore new things. I am
excited to be a part of Camp Explorer and
create new relationships with every child!
Katie Kappler
My name is Katie, I am graduating from Broomfield High School this spring. I
have been on the Poms team all four years of high school. I am apart of the
teacher cadet program at our school. Through that I attend Aspen Creek
Monday-Thursday and I student teach in a 3rd grade classroom. I love kids
and I am so excited to be apart of this program!
Liz Puppe
Hello, I am a parent of 2 boys, one of whom worked for camp with me. I have
lived in the Broomfield community for over 35 years .I have been with camp
since 2007, I started as a Para for the special needs kids in camp, I moved to
director in 2009. I have been a Para Educator for 15 years At Broomfield high
school. Since 2014, I am working as the Campus Security Monitor at
Broomfield High. I have many years working with kids, I was a scout leader for
10 years when my boys were at that age. I am the enforcer of the rules at
camp. I love being able to work with kids of all ages, high school and then with
the little ones in camp. There is no place better to be working then in camp
for the summer. One of my hobbies is to grow my own food and I love to
cook. In my spare time I am lucky enough to spend time with my
Granddaughter.
Julia Hughes
Hi my name is Julia! I will be attending MSU Denver in the fall. This is my
second year working camp!
Andrew Neuhalfen
I am a student at The University of Colorado at
Boulder studying neuroscience and integrative
physiology, on the pre-med track. I aspire to
become a pediatric neurosurgeon in the future. As
a lifeguard with the CCOB for five years, I have had
much experience with children of all ages with
swimming lessons and basic interaction. I am
certified by The American Red Cross for Lifeguard,
AED, CPR, and First-Aid. In addition have a job as a
lifeguard, I also have three younger brothers of my
own that were most of my responsibility through
out high school. I enjoy hiking, biking, and any
outdoor activity I can get involved in.
Elizabeth Lockwood
Hello! My name is Elizabeth Lockwood and I am
currently wrapping up my first year teaching 7th
grade science at Century Middle School. I
graduated from the University of Northern
Colorado in 2015 with a degree in Secondary
Education and an emphasis in Biology. This is my
fourth summer at camp, my second as a director! I
was previously the Assistant Director for the
Crestones. I am very excited to get to spend the
summer with this amazing staff and your
wonderful kids! :)
Megan McGillin
I am going to be a sophomore at Wichita State University and I am still
deciding on a major. I worked at Camp Explorer last summer and am excited
to be back.
Kendall Lockwood
I am a soon to be senior at Broomfield
High School. I am a three year varsity
softball player so far and varsity track
runner. I am on National Honor
Society and Blew Crew leader for our
freshman. I have ran the Broomfield
High Softball camps for 3 years now.
The girls I taught were ages 7-12 years.
I have babysat my neighbors for a
couple of years (five year old boy and
9 year old girl).
Ben Dolph
Hello! My name is Ben, I'm 19 and I'm a
chemistry major at the University of
Colorado at Colorado Springs. I grew up
in the Broomfield area, graduated from
Legacy High School in 2015, and was an
assistant coach with the Broomfield
Blast throughout high school. I have had
the opportunity to work with kids
before in the Nativity parish and I am
excited to be given the privilege to
continue doing so with the Broomfield
summer camp program!
Rylie Weber
I have been a lifeguard for the City and County of Broomfield for 3 years and
have worked with children throughout this time. I also teach swim lessons
with the City for children ages 6 months to 13 years old. I am certified in CPR
and First Aid through Red Cross and have been for 4 years as well as having
WSI training. I am 18 years old and just completed my first year of college at
the University of Northern Colorado. I love to spend time with my friends,
read, watch movies, and enjoy the outdoors in my free time.
Alison Hall
This is my first year working with the City of Broomfield and their camp
program. I am a Recreation major at Metro State University and am hoping
one day to run a youth and teen program. I have an 18 month old daughter
who keeps me very busy! I love staying active and outdoors and look forward
to having a great summer!
Sydney Smith
Hi, i'm Sydney! I am a highschool student at Broomfield High School. I have
been running track at my high school for the past four years. I really enjoy
being outdoors and interacting with kids. I have a lot of experience with kids
(family, friends,etc.) I have worked with children with special needs,
volunteered at church in the kids ministry, and babysat kids of all ages. I really
look forward to being a camp leader this summer for my second year!
Samantha Ryan
My name is Samantha Ryan. I
graduated from Holy Family High
School. I'm a competitive dancer and
have been dancing since I was two. I've
been babysitting for 6 years and work
with kids all the time at dance and I
love it. This year I also worked at an
after school program with kids in
grades K-5.
Nikka Bacalzo
Hi, my name is Nikka Bacalzo and I just completed my freshman year at
Barrett, the Honors College at Arizona State University. I finished the year as a
theatre major but changed to Special Education and Elementary Education. I
enjoy running and hiking, baking, making cards and crafting, and anything to
do with animals. I've babysat and tutored kids throughout high school and am
hoping to teach in Colorado once I graduate!
Jessi Haulman
Hello all, my name is Jessi Haulman. I am 22 years
old. I have been a preschool teachers with
Broomfield Early Learning for the past two years
and I absolutely love all the time I get with the
children! I am a student at Colorado Christian
University. I am an only child, I live with my
parents, two cats, and my grandma. I spend most
of my time with my boyfriend of two years. I enjoy
painting, coloring, and making anything crafty. I
love the Colorado Avalanche and I attend games
very often. A fun fact about me is that I love zebras
and I collect them. I am so excited to be a camp
leader this summer!
Jack Carlson
Hiya! My name is Jack Carlson and I am
currently a sophomore at IPFW in Fort
Wayne, Indiana where I play division 1
volleyball. I am an environmental geology
and sustainability and industrial
engineering major. I have worked in the
youth sports for 6 years and love kids. I
have been at camp 3 summers and have
worked with every age group. This summer
I will be spending most of my time as a
para. In my free time I enjoy playing
volleyball, hiking, and traveling.
Genevieve Duran
My name is Genevieve, but I usually go by Gennie. I recently graduated from
the University of Northern Colorado in December with a degree in Sociology
with a Family Studies Emphasis. While attending UNC I was on the Climbing
team and worked at Outdoor Pursuits. Through Outdoor Pursuits I learned
that I love leading trips, and now I get to lead trips for kids! Growing up I went
to summer camps like this one and absolutely loved it, and I hope your kids
will have just as much fun as I did, if not, even more!
Taylor Hickerson
Hello! My name is Taylor Hickerson, I am a junior at
the University of Colorado at Boulder, working
towards a degree in Political Science, and a minor in
Education. This is my fourth summer at camp. In
those years, I have worked as a leader, para, and
now Assistant Director! When I am not at Camp
Explorer, I am the Development Coordinator and
Treasurer for Camp Kesem, a sleep away camp for
kids whose parents have been affected by cancer. I
am a huge college football and basketball fan (Go
Buffs!), and attend all the games that I can during
the school year. My favorite animals are orcas and
dogs! I am excited to see our returning faces and
also meet friends who are new to camp! My favorite
field trip is either movie and a park or Waterworld. :)
Madison Mueller
My name is Madison Mueller and I just
graduated from Legacy High School. I
am 18 years old and I have spent the
last three years coaching gymnastics. I
can not wait to work with even more
children in the Broomfield community! I
used to be a part of Camp Explorer as a
kid and I have so many amazing
memories that I will forever keep. I
hope to make a few more this summer
as well!
Taylor Kindle
My name is Taylor Kindle and this is
my 4th year at Camp Explorer. I am
currently a sophomore at Metropolitan
State University of Denver pursuing a
Speech, Language and Hearing
Sciences degree. In the future, I hope
to become a Speech and Language
Pathologist working for a school
district. I am also a part-time assistant
driver/office assistant for a local
family-owned inflatable company here
in Broomfield.
Emily Wallerius
My names Emily, I'm 17 and going to be a Senior at Broomfield High School. I
play soccer for my school and competitively for Broomfield Blast Soccer Club. I
have a lot of experience in babysitting and I love working with kids!
Micaela Blanchard
My name is Micaela Blanchard. I am 21 years
old and received my Associate's of Arts with a
Designation in Studio Art. I love sharing my
passion for arts and crafts and I believe
everyone is creative and artistic in their own
way. I love helping people find their creativity
and explore it! I have coached soccer for 4
years as well as the occasional basketball and
volleyball camps. I played soccer, basketball
and volleyball in high school as well as club
soccer for 14 years. I think exercise is a great
way to release energy and stress as well as
learn important life lessons, especially
teamwork.