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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Chloe C - Counselor
Chloe is 23 years old and from Blackpool, United Kingdom. She recently graduated from university in 2023. This will be her first time at Camp Agawak and her first time in America. Chloe is excited to make long-lasting memories and form friendships for a lifetime. She will be teaching archery, riflery, and dance. Chloe is looking forward to meeting people from different cultures and backgrounds. You’ll find her dancing around camp, full of energy! She can’t wait for summer 2025!
Joseph U - Tennis Instructor
Joseph is a passionate athlete who has spent years practicing and refining his skills in land sports, allowing him to share his knowledge with others. As a tennis coach at Agawak, his goal is to help children and young players improve their technique, confidence, and love for the game in a fun and motivating atmosphere. Joseph’s approach is based on patience, discipline, and fostering a positive and friendly environment.
Katie R - Counselor
Meet Katie! She is 18 years old and from Wellington, New Zealand. She recently graduated highschool and this will be her first summer at camp. She will likely be found helping out with Field Hockey and Soccer. Katie is super excited to meet everyone and have a great summer at camp!
Aimee P - Counselor
Aimee is 22 years old and from Manchester, UK. She is beyond excited to return to Blue Lake for her second summer, ready for more campfire singing and ukulele playing!
Alin R - Counselor
Alin is 20 years old and from Querétaro City. She is passionate about creativity, performance, and teaching. Since childhood, Alin has loved being on stage, whether starring in musicals, teaching Zumba Fitness, acting in series, or teaching others to perform in holiday plays. With a background in theater, singing, and dance, she enjoys helping kids build confidence, explore their imagination, and have fun while learning new skills. Alin is excited to bring her energy and creativity to the summer camp and make sure every Agawak girl feels inspired and empowered. She can’t wait to meet everyone!
Claudia B - Counselor
Claudia is 19 years old and from Querétaro, Mexico. She is in her second year of university, studying mechatronics engineering at Universidad Mondragón México. This will be her first summer at Camp Agawak. Claudia loves sports, especially volleyball, and enjoys listening to music, being in nature, going on adventures, and learning and teaching new things. She also loves exploring new places, traveling, and learning languages. What excites her the most is spending time with the campers, creating amazing memories, experiences, and friendships. She can’t wait to see everyone this summer!
Andrea Z - Kitchen Support Staff
Andrea is 20 years old and from Veracruz, Mexico. She is very excited to live a new experience at Camp Agawak. Andrea is a student of Tourism Business Administration and has a passion for traveling, meeting new cultures, and learning continuously. Some of her favorite hobbies include sports, cooking, dancing, and music. This summer, Andrea will be part of the kitchen support staff and is looking forward to an amazing and exciting summer at camp.
Alan M - Maintenance Staff
Alan Melesio is a kind and funny person who considers himself easy to get along with, trustworthy, and dedicated. He believes these are the traits that best represent him. Alan enjoys trying new things and embraces both the good and bad moments in life, seeing them as opportunities for growth. He thrives on the excitement of what comes next.
Currently studying industrial design at Anáhuac University, Alan has gained expertise in tools, machine handling, woodworking, painting applications on various materials, and creativity. He has worked in multiple roles and enjoys meeting new people and gaining new experiences. Alan is always eager to help and believes there’s something to learn from every job and person he encounters.
This will be Alan’s first summer at Agawak, where he will be part of the maintenance staff, contributing his skills and positive attitude to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Carly B - Counselor
Meet Carly! She’s 18 years old, from Chicago, and a senior at Lane Tech High school. She is returning for her 10th summer at Camp Agawak. Carly is most excited for being with her campers and meeting so many new faces! You’ll find her helping out in indoor cooking, tennis, and so much more. She can’t wait to share her love for Agawak with everyone.
Bella M - Counselor
Bella is from Indiana and is returning for her 11th summer at Agawak. In the fall, she will be attending the University of Colorado Boulder as a freshman! Her favorite thing about camp is being able to be outside all the time with her friends, doing her favorite activities. Bella is most excited about seeing all her campers again and spending time on Blue Lake.
