meet the staff
We know that a great camp experience starts with caring, mature staff members, and our staff is made up of adults who are committed to providing guidance, encouragement and an unforgettable summer of fun. At Go West we hire the cream of the crop. Our staff members go through a rigorous hiring process and are selected based on their experience, knowledge and skills in specific camp activity areas, and their ability to create positive relationships with campers and fellow staff members. Every individual contributes to the spirit and culture of camp, and we highly value including counselors from diverse backgrounds and experiences.
Preparation is everything. All of our staff members complete a thorough training before summer begins, continually attend in-service trainings and are evaluated throughout the summer. Our series of trainings includes, at a minimum, First Aid, CPR and certifications in specific program activities. Staff members also go through state and federal criminal background checks. To ensure the safety of our campers, Go West maintains a 1:6 staff to camper ratio. Additionally, each activity is supervised by staff members with previous experience leading that activity.
2026 STAFF
ANDREW VANDERWEGE
OWNER & DIRECTOR
Andrew lives and breathes summer camp. As a toddler he grew up with Camp Director parents, was a camper and then moved on to work at several day and resident camps. His very favorite thing about camp is trying new things and meeting new people. He enjoys biking, board games and adding to his crazy sock collection.
ARIANNE VANDERWEGE
OWNER & DIRECTOR
With more than 20 years working with youth in school, after school, resident and day camp settings, Arianne most enjoys getting to know campers and families and being of support to our amazing staff. Favorite camp activities include creating art and growing veggies in the garden. Arianne also plays ukulele, practices yoga, loves cooking delicious food and enjoys discovering Colorado’s hiking trails with her 11 year old daughter, Maile.
KAYLIN LARKIN
SENIOR DIRECTOR
Kaylin (she/her) has been at Go West from the beginning. She has worked in every role and has loved watching campers grow throughout the years. Kaylin received a Bachelor’s in Psychology from the University of Colorado and Go West has allowed her to merge her passion for working with youth and her love for the outdoors.
KAITEL BURCH, BSN, RN CAMP NURSE SUPERVISOR
When Kaitel isn’t working in emergency department, she’s working with the staff at Go West to ensure a safe and healthy summer for all. This is Kaitel’s seventh year on the Go West Team. As a former Unit Director at camp, and having received her BSN from the University of Colorado, the camp nurse role has been a natural fit. Kaitel brings an infectiously positive attitude, camp knowledge and spirit of teamwork. Kaitel currently resides in Boise, Idaho with her husband and two handsome toddler boys.
COURTNEY SABO DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
MEL LEIDER BASECAMP PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Mel is excited to continue her time at Go West Camps as a director, bringing a lifelong love of camp with her. She grew up as a camper, counselor, and administrator at a camp in Virginia, where she particularly loved leading camp songs, creating fun relay races, and enjoying the magic of rainy days filled with board games and fairy houses. Mel has been a teacher in D20, D11, and D49 and double majored in English Education and Music at James Madison University, still playing saxophone when she can. Outside of teaching and camp, Mel is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu coach and competitor, and loves hiking with her mini poodle Ruby. She’s happiest when she’s outside—especially when there’s a hammock involved. Mel is excited to dive into a new camp community this summer and help create meaningful, joyful experiences for campers and staff alike.
MYCAH QUEVILLION ASSISTANT SITE DIRECTOR
Mycah was born and raised in the Colorado Springs area. She is currently a college student studying Psychology and Classical Studies in Pennsylvania. In the summer, Mycah loves to hike, swim, and to be surrounded by the Colorado wildlife. When inside, she likes to read, paint, and oftentimes do anything theater related. Mycah loves everything about Colorado and is excited to share it with others this summer.
JACKLINE BALLANG UNIT LEADER
MAE GREINER UNIT LEADER
Mae (she/they) is originally from the greater St. Louis area. Growing up, she spent her summers either visiting family in Denver, making friends at day camp, or biking around the neighborhood. Mae has worked in childcare since 2021, and found herself at Go West in 2025. She's learning more and more about the Colorado Springs area and deepening her connection with nature. She's excited for another great summer!
SAGE SHARP UNIT LEADER
Howdy! I’m Farmer Sage, one of the leaders here with Go West Camps. I get my nickname from working on the camp farm this summer. I love all things to do with animals, art and you’ll usually find me instructing culinary, art, farm & garden and drama. Can’t wait to see you there!
ASHA MAYOTT SENIOR COUNSELOR
Hi, my name is Asha. I was born in India but have lived in Colorado Springs since I was two years old. I love to spend time outdoors camping, hiking, and playing softball! I also love DIY projects. I am currently studying Human Physiology and Nutrition at University of Colorado, Colorado Springs. My lifelong goal is to work in the medical field helping kids!
BRIANA MANGUETTE PADDLE BOARD INSTRUCTOR
Hi, I'm Briana, an adventurous spirit from Belgium with a passion for the outdoors and technology. I'm deeply passionate about rock climbing, gravel biking, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and exploring nature while guiding others through it. I love combining my technical skills with my adventurous mindset to inspire others to step out of their comfort zones and embrace new challenges.
NATALIE GALINDO FARM AND GARDEN INSTRUCTOR
AMBER STRATTON ROCK CLIMBING INSTRUCTOR
Hi there! I'm Amber! I have had a passion and love for the outdoors for as long as I can remember, and my hope is to bring others into the world of outdoor adventures and learn to love it as well. I have been a camp counselor in the past leading kiddos through High Adventure Courses and other adventures. I love to explore outdoors with hiking, climbing, camping, anything involving water and any sport! I am an avid coffee and animal lover as I have spent the last 6 years of my life as a Veterinary Technician. I am stoked to help kids learn to love rock climbing and all the joys and challenges it brings!
JERRY GALLEY GO-TO COUNSELOR
AUTUMN LARGENT GO-TO COUNSELOR
Hello! I’m Autumn. I'm currently a student at the University of Tulsa but reside in Colorado with family. I'm currently an Environmental Policy major and am very passionate about the outdoors and plants. I’m very excited to work as a camp counselor and can't wait share an amazing summer with everyone!
CHEYENNE TAYLOR GO-TO COUNSELOR
Hello! My name is Cheyenne! I am super excited to be working at camp this summer! I love the arts and nature and I'm so excited to have a fun summer with everyone. I have been living in Colorado Springs for my whole life and I have fallen in love with the outdoors over and over and I'm so excited to make this summer great!
SARAI OWENS COUNSELOR
ANGEL TROGI
FARM PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Angel (he/ they) started at Go West Camps in 2021 as a summer camp counselor. Currently, Angel is a year round Farm Program Director of the endlessly evolving Go West Farm, home to two hundred chickens, goats, ducks, barn cats and all sorts of garden plants. Born in Illinois, he has always had an immense passion for animals, farming, tattooing, painting, digital art, LGBTQ+ diversity and a strong desire to create safe creative space. That desire soon cultivated numerous outlets for expansion arriving in Colorado, specifically at Go West.
RACHEL BACHMAN SITE DIRECTOR
JESSE ALI ASSISTANT SITE DIRECTOR
Jesse (he/him) grew up in Las Vegas, Nevada and traded the desert for the beautiful snowy mountains of Colorado. He is passionate about fitness and functional movement, LGBTQ+ diversity, and creative writing. He is currently studying to be a chiropractor and is pursuing a bachelor’s in kinesiology. In his free time, he enjoys playing baseball, axe and knife throwing, rock climbing, and long walks with his senior dog, Cirilla.
BRITTANY CARL UNIT LEADER
Brittany was born and raised in Colorado Springs, Colorado and has a passion for birds, bugs, bogs and all that is blooming. She pours her time into creative pursuits including tattooing, playing bass in her band, curating vintage clothing and making herbal concoctions. Zealous about connecting with others, learning / teaching new things, she is ecstatic to be a first year counselor at Go West Camps.
GRACE KIMES
UNIT LEADER
Grace grew up in Colorado Springs and she loves to spend time outside running, hiking, and paddle boarding. When she’s not outside, you’ll catch her teaching elementary school and traveling the globe. She’s so excited for what this summer has in store!
ALLI VANDERHEIDE UNIT LEADER
Hey everyone! My name is Alli and this is my second year at Go West Camps. I grew up in Grand Rapids, Michigan, but I go to school in Indiana. I am heading into my junior year at Taylor University where I study social studies education with a concentration in special education! I am so excited to spend the summer in Colorado. I love volleyball, coffee, and trying new things! I can't wait to meet you all!
JESS SHELTON SENIOR COUNSELOR
Hey y'all, I'm Jess! This is my second year being a counselor at Go West Camps. I grew up in Colorado Springs and spent my summers hiking, camping, paddleboarding, and enjoying the great outdoors that our state has to offer. I've been a snowboarder since I was 8 years old, and I still spend my winter weekends in the mountains snowboarding when I have the time! I am currently a rising senior at the University of Colorado Denver, and I'm double-majoring in Psychology and Communications, and I love doing photography and writing in my free time!
IAN HUNT MOUNTAIN BIKE INSTRUCTOR
Hi my name is Ian Hunt, I am currently in my first year at Colorado Mesa University going for my BSN with a specialty in pediatrics. I really love exploring the outdoors in many different forms from water sports, to trail running, mountain biking, ski touring, or rock climbing. This will be my 5th year of teaching biking skills to kids.
HEIDI HANSEN FARM AND GARDEN INSTRUCTOR
KEN SCHNEPF NATURE PROGRAM INSTRUCTOR
A retired high school science teacher with a degree in marine biology, who enjoys being outdoors as much as possible, especially alone in the wilderness with nothing else around. All outdoor activities appeal to me... except golf.
JENNY IRWIN GO-TO COUNSELOR
Hi! My name is Jenny! I’m a Colorado native. I have an Associate’s degree in Psychology and a Bachelor’s degree in Family Consumer Sciences, with a focus in Child Life and Family Studies. I’m passionate about working with children and families and love creating fun, supportive environments where kids can grow, connect, and be themselves.
In my free time, I enjoy paddle boarding and getting creative with crafts like diamond dotting, making bead keychains, and bracelets. I’m excited to spend the summer at Go West Camps, building meaningful connections and helping campers make unforgettable memories!
JOSHUA MARTEY GO-TO COUNSELOR
ASAUNI ALSTON GO-TO COUNSELOR
MACKENZIE SOVA COUNSELOR
Mackenzie was born in Alaska but grew up in Colorado Springs where she developed a deep love for camping, hiking, and everything the outdoors has to offer. She is always excited to try new things and spend time exploring nature whenever she can. This fall, she will be attending UCCS to pursue her degree in Elementary Education with a minor in Special Education. She is passionate about learning, teaching, and building connections with others, she is thrilled to be a first-year counselor at Go West Camps and cannot wait to meet all of the campers and create unforgettable memories together.
SHANNON LARKIN
LOGISTICS COORDINATOR & REGISTRAR
Shannon has been with Go West Camps since 2021 working behind the scenes. She runs the backside of camp making sure everything is ready to go when summer rolls around. With her passion for fashion, you’ll most likely spot her running around during summer wearing some funky outfits!
ARIANA GARCIA SITE DIRECTOR
Hi! My name is Ariana, and I’m so excited to be a Site Director with Go West Camps this summer! During the school year, I’m a high school English teacher, and I’m passionate about helping students build confidence, find their voice, and feel a sense of belonging in the classroom. I love creating positive, supportive environments where students can grow, take risks, and have fun while learning. At camp, I’m especially excited to help build a strong community for both campers and staff, and to create an experience where everyone feels included and valued. Outside of teaching, I enjoy storytelling in all forms, spending time outdoors, and trying new coffee spots. I can’t wait for an amazing summer full of adventure, growth, and connection!
DWIGHT GRANT
ADVENTURE PROGRAMS SUPERVISOR Dwight has a passion for outdoor adventure and family. He and his wife have been married for over 40 years
and have 3 adult children and 6 grandkids. Dwight was an outdoor recreation major and started mountain
biking in the mid-80s, and he enjoys sharing his love of riding with others. Whitewater rafting is another
passion that led Dwight and his family to own and operate VFH rafting for 10 years on the Arkansas River.
ROMAN CARROLL UNIT LEADER
XAVIER LANDRUM UNIT LEADER
Hi y’all! I’m Xavier or X for short as some of you may know and I’m excited for this summer! I’ve done it all at Go West Camps, but this summer I would like to just have fun with the campers and staff for one more summer following my last year of teaching before I venture off into a new path in my life away from education and childcare. A few things I like to do nowadays are go fishing, outdoor grilling when possible, mountain bike, hike/explore, play basketball and play games on my PC. I’m ready to have a exciting summer and be outside with the campers to make this summer count!
JORDAN WEST UNIT LEADER
JULIANNA ARELLANO PADDLE BOARD INSTRUCTOR
MAX SCHULTZ MOUNTAIN BIKE INSTRUCTOR
I have grown up in Colorado Springs and is currently working towards a masters in Mechanical Engineering in Boulder. My favorite ways to spend time in the outdoors are mountain biking, climbing, hiking, and nature photography. I am super excited for this summer!
MAR PAPPALARDO FARM AND GARDEN INSTRUCTOR
Hello, my name is Mar and I am so excited to join the Go West team this year! I was born and raised in Colorado Springs and I am currently studying Psychology and Social Work at UCCS! I have so many hobbies and interests it can be hard to list, but I love to get outdoors and hike, birdwatch, garden, paddleboard, and do archery! I also love to stay inside (especially on nice rainy days) and read, draw, crochet, play video games and spend time with my two adorable cats!
ELLIE ANDERTON GO-TO COUNSELOR
Hey everyone! My name is Ellie! I’m born and raised in the French Alps, I’m bilingual and learning Italian and have a passion for F1 and hockey. I love skiing and spending time in the mountains. I have a waitressing degree!!
Excited to spend the summer in Colorado and meet everyone!
TEEANNA KERLEY GO-TO COUNSELOR
HANNAH SCHWEIGER GO-TO COUNSELOR
Hi! My name is Hannah! I've lived in Colorado Springs since I was 12 and absolutely love nature and the outdoors. I start my undergrad in the fall at CU Denver as a Film major. In my free time I love baking, arts and crafts, and volunteering in the community. I love working with kids and absolutely can't wait to be a counselor this summer!
LANA BECK COUNSELOR
Hi, my name is Lana! I am currently a student at Fort Lewis College. My major is cellular and molecular biology with a concentration in medicine. When I'm not studying, I enjoy going for walks, baking cookies, listening to music, coloring, doing crafts, reading, and spending time with the people I love. I also love animals of all kinds. I can't wait for a summer full of the outdoors and great memories!
LARRY HANSEN BUS DRIVER
Larry has lived in Colorado Springs basically his whole life. He moved here when he was one. With all the beauty and wonder that Colorado has to offer. It's no surprise that he enjoys the outdoors so much. This will be his first season with Go West. He's looking forward to having lots of new adventures and making some friends.
MARCUS SMITH ADVENTURE PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Marcus is excited to be with Go West Camps after starting as the Excursion Logistics Counselor and a Summer Day Camp Counselor in Summer 2025. Marcus has previously worked as an Adventure Day Camp Director in South Denver, a Lead Instructor at Douglas County's Outdoor Ed Program in Larkspur, CO, and as a backcountry guide leading excursions in Utah, Arizona, and Colorado. He is excited to bring a lifelong love of camp to Go West and to be able to lead and mentor the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts! In his spare time, Marcus is an avid reader, backpacker, skier, and kayaker.
DAYNA WAHL
SITE DIRECTOR
Dayna is so excited to be back at Go West again this summer! She has been part of the Go West family since 2020 and looks forward to every summer filled with mountain biking, rock climbing, paddleboarding, and tons of adventure. When she’s not hanging out with the best campers in the world, she spends her school year teaching the best 5th graders ever. Dayna is also in graduate school studying leadership and hopes to become a principal one day! Go West Camps will always have a very special place in her heart, and she can’t wait for another amazing summer!
NIC VARGAS FARM AND GARDEN SUPERVISOR
JOEL COLON MORENO UNIT LEADER
Born and raised in the gorgeous island of Puerto Rico, Joel was raised with a deep love for nature that only grew over the years. They infuse this love into all that they do, from writing to running TTRPG games professionally. This love is especially strong for the tiny organisms that live in nature, and Joel is always happy to impart careful, thoughtful insight on all the insects they encounter.
ALLIE LEISHER UNIT LEADER
I’m Allie, I was born and raised in Colorado Springs and actually attended Go West Camps! I am currently studying Social Work, Psychology, and Gender Studies at Buena Vista University. I have always loved the outdoors, being on the water, and working with children. I'm so excited to be back this summer!!
KYRA DAHAN SENIOR COUNSELOR
HANNAH EVANS PADDLE BOARD INSTRUCTOR
Hi everyone! My name is Hannah, and I will be a Paddle Board Instructor this summer at Go West Eagleview. I have been working at sleepaway camps for the past 5 years, mainly in the Canadian Maritimes, and I am very excited to spend my first summer out West with Go West Campers and the community! I can't wait to see everyone on the water :)
KYLA WRIGHT MOUNTAIN BIKE INSTRUCTOR
KATELYNN ABERNATHY ROCK CLIMBING INSTRUCTOR
I’m passionate about working with kids and I have experience in most of the usual Colorado activities. I was born and raised here in Colorado and grew up mountain climbing, long boarding, swimming, and playing lacrosse! I also enjoy traveling and anything creative or artistic. When I’m not outside I like to paint and listen to music. I’m looking forward to having a great summer!
KADEE ELROD GO-TO COUNSELOR
Hi there, I'm Kadee! I just finished my freshman year as an Elementary Education major at Front Range Community College. I am passionate about teaching and working with kids and I love how camp provides so much opportunity to campers and counselors. Some of my hobbies outside of camp include reading voraciously, arts and crafts, and most recently rock climbing. I'm so excited for all the new things I'm going to learn and try this summer and I look forward to a new adventure!
BAILEY KING GO-TO COUNSELOR
Hi! My name is Bailey King, and I’m 20 years old. I love spending time outdoors, whether that’s hiking, exploring nature, or enjoying camp activities. In my free time, I enjoy painting and being creative, and I also love hanging out with my friends and making new memories. I’m excited to be a camp counselor and help create a fun, safe, and positive experience for everyone this summer!
LUCIA SIEDLER GO-TO COUNSELOR
Hi, my name is Lucia, and I'm from Germany. I’m currently studying communication and eventmanagement in my third year. I love everything crafty, animals, music, and spending time in nature, as well as a good book:)
PERCY COUGHLIN COUNSELOR
KEVIN GRANT BUS DRIVER