Wildwood Summer Camps 2024

Chris Moon

Camp Director 

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Get ready for a summer of wild adventures with Chris Moon, your guide to unforgettable experiences at Wildwood Summer Camps, 2024! As the Director of Programming at Wildwood Academy, Chris brings a whirlwind of energy and a passion for outdoor fun.

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Having traveled to Munich, Germany and earned his B.A. in International Affairs at Lewis and Clark College, Chris discovered his love for nature while working at a kayak shop in Central Oregon. From backpacking to kayaking, biking to ski instructing, and even guiding river trips, Chris knows how to turn every moment into an epic adventure.

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With over 8 years of experience teaching and inspiring young minds, Chris is all about sparking curiosity and igniting a love for exploration. Whether it's diving into AP Economics, unraveling the mysteries of science, or delving into the wonders of history and natural resources, Chris believes in hands-on learning that takes place in the great outdoors.

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Join Chris this summer as he guides our summer camp programming on thrilling expeditions, fosters problem-solving skills, and empowers each camper to become a positive force for change in the world. Get ready to discover, learn, and create lasting memories under the guidance of a true outdoor enthusiast and educator!

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Joe Vincent

Summer Camp Counselor

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Meet Joe Vincent, your go-to guy for non-stop fun and adventure at Wildwood Summer Camps, 2024! As bothSpanish and Individuals and Societies teacher at Wildwood Academy, Joe brings a passion for outdoor learning and a knack for making education exciting.

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Hailing from Lynchburg, Virginia, Joe's journey into teaching and outdoor exploration began during his college days at the University of Lynchburg, where he not only earned his teaching license but also honed his skills on the varsity lacrosse team. With a love for whitewater kayaking and a background in teaching, Joe is all about combining education with thrilling outdoor experiences.

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After teaching in Big Sky, Montana, and exploring the rivers of the Columbia River Gorge, Joe returned to Wildwood Academy, where he spent two years teaching and inspiring fifth through eighth graders. During a year away to earn his master's degree in English Language Learning, Joe didn't slow down—he studied remotely, working as a river guide in Patagonia, and embarked on adventures in Chile and Peru with his wife, Elena.

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When Joe isn't sparking curiosity in the classroom or exploring the world with campers, you'll find him navigating local gorges or conquering world-class whitewater- often with his furry companions, Kleetus and her pup 'Lil Red,  Get ready for an unforgettable summer filled with laughter, learning, and endless adventures with Joe Vincent at Wildwood Summer Camps!

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Finn Anderson

Summer Camp Counselor

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Get ready to rock and roll with Finn Anderson at Wildwood Summer Camps 2024! As Wildwood Academy's After School Program Music Teacher, we are thrilled to have Finn join us this summer. A true Columbia Gorge local with a passion for adventure and music, Finn is your ticket to an electrifying summer camp experience.

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Having called the Gorge home since his family's move from California in 2000, Finn grew up surrounded by majestic mountains, igniting his love for skiing, hiking, soccer, and of course, music. His journey led him to Seattle University, where he dived into a world of melodies as a member of the University Choir, student radio, an a cappella group, and even a rock band, soaking up the vibrant music scene.

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Armed with a B.A. in Interdisciplinary Arts and a Certificate in Electronic Music Composition from Berklee School of Music, Finn's passion for teaching blossomed while coaching skiing, and tutoring. Returning to the Gorge in 2017, he infused his love for music into teaching, introducing students to music production, video editing, ukulele, and bucket drumming, making learning an unforgettable rhythm.

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Not just confined to the classroom, Finn delved into Kirtan, a yoga music meditation, leading him on soul-stirring journeys to Guatemala and India, where he immersed himself in local folk music and culture.

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When he's not lighting up the stage with our Wildwood student rock band or as a musician and DJ, Finn is the mastermind behind the scenes at Underground Music Station in Hood River, where he orchestrates music performances, parties, and private events. Catch him rocking out with the local country-rock band, Greenneck Daredevils, and bringing a wave of energy to every beat.

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Join Finn this summer for a harmonious blend of adventure, music, and unforgettable moments at Wildwood Summer Camps. Get ready to groove, learn, and create memories that will last a lifetime!

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Liesel Benecke

Summer Camp Counselor

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Meet Liesel, the spirited educator ready to bring a world of mindfulness and outdoor adventures to Wildwood Summer Camps 2024! With a passion for blending experiential learning with nature's wonders, Liesel is set to ignite curiosity and create unforgettable experiences.

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Hailing from Missouri State University with a B.S. in Biology focused on Marine Science, Liesel's educational journey continued with a Masters in Teaching from the University of Washington, Seattle. She also earned a Masters Certificate in Outdoor Education from prestigious Islandwood on Bainbridge Island, WA, diving deep into the art of teaching through exploration and hands-on experiences.

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In her quest for knowledge and harmony, Liesel loves strumming the banjo (even as a beginner!), practicing yoga, and embarking on outdoor escapades with her trusty companion, Uli the dog. As a newcomer to the Gorge, Liesel is eager to connect with families, students, and the vibrant Hood River community, weaving together a tapestry of learning and adventure.

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Join Liesel this summer for a blend of mindful moments, outdoor exploration, and joyful learning at Wildwood Summer Camps. Get ready to discover, grow, and create lasting memories under Liesel's guidance as you explore the wonders of nature and the magic of education!