Agawak’s nurturing, fun and professional staff of educators, college students and coaches encourages our campers to develop new interests, gain valuable skills and discover their strengths in an inclusive and welcoming community. Camp Agawak is about making lasting friendships, building self-confidence and creating unforgettable memories.
Mary Fried, Owner & Director
With over 30 years of camping experience Mary is a committed and seasoned director. Mary is only the third owner of Camp Agawak. Mary brings passion, hands-on leadership and incredible warmth to a camp culture that is as extraordinary as it is fun. Mary’s Master’s degree in educational psychology along with a background in school counseling makes her a highly skilled and compassionate director. She has dedicated her life to working with children. Since 1989, Mary has helped thousands of young campers transition successfully to overnight camp.
Mary has three children Jaclyn, Jacob, and Joshua.
Chris Garcia, Associate Director
Introducing Chris Garcia, the dedicated associate director of Camp Agawak, who has devoted 15 years to year-round camp operations. As the key communicator for camp families, Chris is the friendly voice behind countless emails and phone calls, ensuring a smooth experience for all. Born and raised in Minocqua, she left to pursue a Masters Degree in Business, then returned with her husband to raise their four children in the Northwoods. In addition to her camp responsibilities, Chris passionately coaches swimming at both the high school and club levels during the winter months. With her commitment and enthusiasm, she is eagerly anticipating an unforgettable Summer 2025!
Jacob Fried, Assistant Director
With a lifetime of camping experience, Jacob Fried is a dedicated and enthusiastic member of the Camp Agawak community. Holding both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in business from Marquette University, Jacob brings valuable skills to his role. Having lived at camp his entire life, he has a deep passion for helping and working with the wonderful campers and staff. His energetic presence can be felt throughout the camp as he assists with activities, programming, and everything that makes Agawak special. Jacob’s commitment to fostering a positive camp environment is evident in all that he does. He is eagerly looking forward to another exciting summer ahead, always with a smile on and ready to go FULL SPEED AHEAD!
Sarah Mervis, CIT Director
Meet Sara, affectionately known as Merv, a valued member of the Administrative staff at Camp Agawak, who is thrilled to share another summer with everyone. She holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin and a master’s degree in teaching from National Louis University, which enrich her contributions to the camp. With a lifelong connection to this camp, she has spent every summer here for at least a week and has enjoyed over 17 years of dedicated service. As the CIT Director and Division Head for some of the senior cabins, Sara works closely with the oldest campers, fostering their growth and development. During the school year, she brings her passion for education to her role as a 3rd grade special education teacher in the suburbs of Chicago. A proud mother, she is excited to have one camper and one counselor in the Agawak community, making this truly her happy place!
Emily Williams, Activities and Program Director
Meet Emily, a beloved member of the Camp Agawak community, who is thrilled to embrace another summer of joy and adventure. With 12 years of experience at Agawak, she has journeyed from camper to counselor, served as Blue and White Commissioner, and is now part of the office staff. Emily graduated from the University of Colorado, Boulder with a business degree, which enhances her role in coordinating activities for both staff and campers, ensuring everyone has a fantastic time. Her passion for camp shines through in everything she does, and her dedication to creating memorable experiences makes her an invaluable asset to the community. Emily truly loves Agawak and can’t wait to make this summer unforgettable for everyone!
Camp Staff
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Cassie C - Registered Nurse
Cassie is a registered nurse from Poth, Texas, and is excited to be returning for her 3rd summer at Camp Agawak! Cassie is looking forward to providing care to all campers and staff throughout the summer. She is dedicated to helping everyone stay healthy and happy, making sure camp is a safe and welcoming place for all.
Indiana M - Maintenance
Indiana is from México and is excited to be returning for his 9th summer at Camp Agawak! For Indiana, coming back to camp feels like coming home to family. He finds so much happiness in helping everyone around camp and takes pride in keeping this special place running smoothly and looking its best. Indiana’s favorite thing about camp is the feeling of independence amidst nature, which he finds truly special. He is looking forward to another fantastic summer!
Marlena T - Counselor
Marlena is from England, UK, and is starting her Dietetics Master’s program this September at King’s College London after graduating last year with a Bachelor’s in Nutrition from the University of Reading. This will be her first summer at Camp Agawak! Marlena is excited to meet all the campers and counselors and to spend the summer outdoors. She’s looking forward to sharing her passion for sports on the tennis courts, at the waterfront, and wherever else she’s needed. Having played sports her whole life, Marlena can’t wait to dive into all the activities camp has to offer and inspire campers through her love of sports!
Dani D - Photographer
Dani is from Mexico and is currently in her 9th semester studying Graphic Design. This will be her third summer at Camp Agawak! She is very excited to see all the campers again and is also thrilled to be back with the staff. Dani can’t wait to take the best pictures at camp and is looking forward to a super fun summer!
Fiona L - Activity Specialist
Fiona is from Chicago but now lives in Minocqua, Wisconsin, and graduated from Columbia College Chicago in 2011. This will be her first summer at Camp Agawak! She is most excited to jump in the lake, spend the summer outside playing, and explore theater and writing with the campers. Fiona spent five years performing at The Second City Chicago before moving into teaching, and she can’t wait to work with your campers and play improv games all summer long!
Skye G - Photographer
Skye is from Northbrook, Illinois, and this will be her 7th summer at Camp Agawak! During the year, she works as a 4th grade teacher and photographer. Her favorite part about Agawak is spending the summer on Blue Lake and capturing memories that will last a lifetime. She’ll be back behind the lens again this summer as one of our amazing camp photographers!
Paola A - Kitchen Support Staff
Paola is from Mexico and currently in her 6th semester at Universidad Veracruzana. This will be her first summer at Camp Agawak! She’s excited about working in an industrial kitchen and, of course, meeting incredible people along the way. Her favorite food is strawberries!
Lauren G - Counselor
Lauren is from the Central Coast of Australia and is in her first year at the University of Sydney. This will be her 3rd summer at Camp Agawak! She loves the North Woods and Blue Lake and is so excited to see everyone again for another amazing summer.
Marian G - Kitchen Support Staff
Marian is from Mexico, and this will be her 5th summer at Camp Agawak. She’s excited to be back on Blue Lake and soak up all the beauty of nature. If you need anything, you can find Marian in the kitchen, ready to help with a smile!
Noa C - Counselor
Noa is from Highland Park, Illinois, and is a rising sophomore at The Ohio State University. This will be her 10th summer at Camp Agawak and her 3rd on staff. Some of her favorite things about camp are Blue and White and pasta bar! This summer, Noa will be one of our Evening Program coordinators, and she can’t wait for all the fun ahead!
