Year Round Staff

Jalisa came aboard as the Program Director in 2011; was promoted to Assistant Director in 2014; and was named Director in January 2020. She is a leader in the camping field and was the 2017 recipient of the Jack Weiner Leadership Award from the American Camp Association. She has a bachelor’s degree in camp administration from Florida State University. She and her husband Michael were married at Camp in 2014. They live with their two children Calvin and Neva year-round at camp.

Scott came to Camp Newaygo as the Community Program Director in 2017 and now leads our program team during summer camp and throughout the year. Scott brings extensive experience from working at a number of camps and youth development organizations across Michigan. He has a Masters degree in Architecture with a focus on community development and youth participatory design processes. Scott is passionate about helping our summer staff develop leadership skills and providing accessible, equitable opportunities to youth. His lab-beagle mix Lola loves living at and exploring camp.

Whitney started her career at Camp Newaygo in June 2018, and has already embraced Newaygo county and all it has to offer. Whitney comes to us from Lucy’s Cafe in Grand Rapids, and has experience with The Gilmore Collection and working for Disney World. Whitney holds a degree from the Culinary Institute of Michigan. She and her husband Dave were married at Camp Newaygo in 2021, and their daughter Brooklyn is a proud Camp Newaygo camper.

Richard joined us as our Facilities Director in 2025. Richard brings with him over 20 years of camp facility experience. Originally from New Zealand, Richard is a Joiner by trade. He also has his State of Michigan Builder’s License. For the past few years he has owned and operated Kiwi Handyman Services in northern Michigan. His extensive knowledge in woodworking and building operations fits right into Camp Newaygo’s vision for the future. Richard has been married to his wife Amanda since 2007. They have two kids, Kiora and Tommy, and a corgi named Milo.

Originally from Toluca, Mexico, Lilka started her career at Camp Newaygo in Summer 2017 as a counselor. She has served as a seasonal leadership staff member and a year-round volunteer at camp. Lilka attended Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México to pursue a degree in Biomedical Engineering but realized her true love is camping and youth development. She is a longtime cheerleader, cheerleading/gymnastics coach and sports enthusiast. Lilka loves everything outdoors, is passionate about human development, social justice and youth education.

Liliana, also known as just Lili, started her Camp Newaygo journey in January of 2023. Originally from Chicago, Illinois, she has had her fair share of outdoor adventure. Whether that be almost getting hyperthermia on a canoe trip or bushwhacking while trying to avoid a moose on the trail, she can handle anything thrown her way. She has 2 years of youth adventure trip guiding experience under her belt and can’t wait to pass on that knowledge to any curious minds who want to learn more about the outdoors. She is the 2nd youngest of 8 Kids and has 11 nieces and nephews who she helped raise, so she definitely knows her way around kids. Liliana is excited for the new challenges that she will conquer in this position and is even more excited about what the future at Camp Newaygo has in store.

Maverick started at camp in 2025. Maverick is the dedicated maintenance, grounds, and housekeeping director, bringing hands-on experience in automotive repair, landscaping, and multi-process welding. Maverick attended trade school for automotive technology and welding trades, becoming state certified in both at just 17 years old. In his free time, he enjoys working on cars, spending time outdoors, and spending time with family.

Ashley Tanis joined the team in 2022 as a housekeeper and quickly became a valued part of camp life. After taking a year off, she returned in 2025 as Head Housekeeper. Ashley takes pride in maintaining a clean and welcoming environment for guests and staff alike. She loves seeing everyone enjoy their time at camp and works hard to make sure every space feels cared for. Outside of work, Ashley is a proud mom to three boys who keep her just as busy and joyful as camp life does.

Jessica is a native of Newaygo county and started her time with Camp Newaygo in 2018 as a seasonal culinary staff. She rejoined the team in 2023 and is now one of our Sous Chefs. As a mother to four kids herself she adds that special touch to our camp favorites. Everyone loves dessert and Jessica’s love of baking is evident in every camp and ridge catering dessert she prepares