Meet our Summer Camp Staff
Meet our exceptional summer camp team at YMCA Camp Hunterdon! Discover the passion, expertise, and infectious energy that our dedicated staff brings to create unforgettable summer experiences for your children – explore their brief bios and get to know the heart and soul of our exceptional camp programs.
Hunter, Mascot for Camp Hunterdon
Born in the wilderness of Hunterdon County, Hunter found himself lost as a tiny cub. Fortunately, a compassionate group of camp counselors discovered him and welcomed him into their camp. Little did they know they were taking in a bundle of unstoppable energy and charm!
Through a series of unexpected events, Hunter soon discovered his true identity as the long-lost twin of Buckster, the beloved mascot from Camp Bucks. This revelation brought the brothers closer than ever, creating an unbeatable duo that could light up any room with laughter.
Thanks to his charisma and irresistible charm, Hunter quickly gained the admiration of camp attendees from near and far. Hunter's Awards and Achievements include:
1. Silly Smiles Champion: Honored for his ability to bring a smile to the faces.
2. Bearlympics Gold Medalist: Brought home the gold in the tree climbing, salmon-catching, and log rolling events.
3. King of Campfires: Regaled for his ability to roast the perfect marshmallow every time.
Hunter the Bear's legacy stretches far beyond the borders of Hunterdon County. From his humble beginnings as a lost cub to his renowned position as an extraordinary camp mascot, he continues to inspire campers and remind us all of the power of adventure, laughter, and an unabashed love for life.
Camp Carr (Annandale) Summer Camp Staff
Andy Cogen
Camp Director
Andy has worked at the Y for 18 years and was a camper at Camp Carr as a child. Andy has a Bachelor’s degree in Cyber Security from Penn State University, as well as an Associate’s degree in Web Development. Andy is also involved in the School Aged Child Care department at the Y, as well as the Y’s STEAM enrichment after school clubs in various Hunterdon county schools. Fun Fact: Andy can usually be found at camp holding a chipwich!
Laura Bussard
Assistant Camp Director
Laura Bussard has been part of the Camp Carr program for 12 years in our Leaders in Training program, Art Specialist and now as our Assistant Camp Director. Out of the camp season, Laura is a full time teacher at the Hunterdon Preparatory School. Fun Fact: Laura loves the color purple, and she also enjoys bowling in her spare time!
Christie Stymiest
Aquatics Director
Christie started as a camper at Camp Carr in 2002! Where she fell in love with the pool and the day camp atmosphere. She has been a Lifeguard and Swim Instructor at the Y since 2009! She has worked at Camp Hunterdon and Camp Carr. This will be her 3rd Year leading the Aquatic Staff at Camp Carr!
When she is not at Camp Carr, she can be found at Deer Path teaching, guarding, supervising the pool deck or up at her desk!
Fun Fact: Her favorite part of the Camp Day, is hearing all the fun cheers the Camp Groups come up with!
Lambertville "South" Summer Camp Staff
Dan D’Albis
Camp Director
Dan is beyond excited to begin his 4th summer with Camp Bucks! He has been working at Y summer camps from the age of 16 and his love and passion for camp has never wavered. He believes that summer camps change lives, create lasting bonds and memories, and continue to develop the youth of the future. He and his staff have been planning and are ready to have the best summer yet! Fun Fact: Dan has a black belt in Kempo martial arts!
Flemington at Deer Path Summer Camp Staff
Jacob Gleason
Director of Youth Development
Jacob is our Associate Director of Youth Development out of the Hunterdon Region for YMCA of Bucks and Hunterdon Counties. He oversees all of our youth programs as well as adult programs and family events out of the Hunterdon Region. Jacob is a recent graduate of Elon University where he received his Bachelor's degree in Sports Management as well as a minor in Business Administration. Camp has been a part of Jacob’s summers since he was 4 years old and he can’t wait for year 2 at Deer Path Camp! Fun Fact: Jacob’s favorite part of camp is the music and energy that the kids bring to opening ceremonies every morning.
Carly Isabella-Murin
Camp Director
Carly Isabella-Murin is the Camp Director of Deer Path Camp. With over 15 years of service within the YMCA of Bucks and Hunterdon Camps, Carly has held various roles, including camp counselor, head counselor, assistant director, and now director. Her commitment extends beyond camp, where she earned a master's in Education and works locally as a high school counselor. In her role as Camp Director, Carly takes pride in overseeing the camp staff, ensuring a positive and safe environment for all campers. Her passion lies in getting to know every camper, fostering a sense of connection, and witnessing the transformative impact that camp has on their summer experience. Carly Isabella-Murin brings a wealth of knowledge and a genuine enthusiasm for creating memorable and enriching moments for every camper under her guidance.
Riley Ferrara
Camp Coordinator
Riley is entering her sixth summer here at Deer Path Camp. She has held a number of different positions here including assistant counselor, head counselor, Health Coordinator, Camp Admin, and now C.I.T and Office Coordinator. During the year, Riley is a co-site director for our School Age Child Care programs. She also attends school at Delaware Valley University where she studies Sports Management. Riley is very excited and can’t wait for another great summer at camp!
Fun Fact: Riley is a quadruplet and two of her siblings work as with her here at camp.
Flemington at Echo Hill Summer Camp Staff
Coming soon
Association Summer Camp Staff
Melanie Spratt
Camp Administrator
Melanie graduated from Delaware Valley University with a Bachelor's degree in Accounting/Business Administration. Melanie has been with our Y for 16 years, and is looking forward to working with families in our community to ensure each camper has the best summer camp experience!
Fun Fact: Melanie’s favorite ice cream flavor is Peanut Butter, and her favorite camp memory is the annual Talent Show!
Catherine Refice
Associate Director of Financial Assistance
Catherine attended LaSalle University earning a Bachelor's Degree in Human Resource Management and Psychology. Catherine has been with our Y and a valued member of our Camp Leadership team for 18 years. Catherine is at camp each Monday morning, and is excited to see opening ceremonies and another summer of fun! Fun Fact: Catherine’s favorite ice cream flavor is Black Cherry!