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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Abbie S - Counselor
Abbie is from Highland Park, Illinois, and is a rising sophomore at the University of Michigan. This will be her 7th summer at Camp Agawak, and she’s so excited to be back! Her favorite part about Agawak is the people—the campers and staff who make it feel like home. Abbie can’t wait to see everyone and help out with her favorite activities like waterskiing and dance. Get ready for another unforgettable summer!
Kendall M - Activity Specialist
Kendall is from Minocqua, Wisconsin, and attends Northern Michigan University. This will be his 3rd summer at Camp Agawak, and he’s pumped to be back! Kendall is most excited to send campers flying down the zip line and see their faces light up with excitement. Whether he’s encouraging someone to take the leap or just enjoying the energy of camp, Kendall is ready to help make this summer the best one yet!
Nikki S - Activity Specialist
Nikki is back for her 8th summer at Camp Agawak, and you’ll find her up high at the Tango Tower! As a year-round climbing instructor and Challenge Course Manager, Nikki brings tons of experience and passion to camp. Her favorite thing about Agawak is helping campers reach new heights—literally and figuratively—on the Tango Tower. In her free time, she loves paddleboarding, climbing, camping, and doing yoga. Nikki is looking forward to another great summer in the sun on Blue Lake!
Sophia S - Activity Specialist
Sophia is from Minocqua, Wisconsin, and is currently in her 3rd year at Nicolet College. This will be her 4th summer at Camp Agawak, and she’s so excited to be back leading ceramics! Sophia’s favorite thing about camp is teaching campers how to express their creativity to the fullest. She can’t wait to reconnect with returning campers and meet some new faces too. Get ready to get creative—this summer is going to be one to remember!
Alexis M - Maintenance
Alexis is from Mexico and is currently in his 5th year at TecNM. This will be his 3rd summer at Camp Agawak, and he’s excited to be back helping out on the maintenance team! Alexis is most looking forward to seeing Blue Lake again and enjoying the peaceful beauty of camp. He’s ready for another incredible summer filled with hard work, great memories, and the special energy that makes Agawak feel like home.
Matt S - Assistant Chef
Matt is from Texas and is back for his 2nd summer at Camp Agawak! He’s excited to return as an Assistant Cook in the kitchen, where he helps create delicious meals for everyone to enjoy. Matt’s favorite thing about Agawak is the people—campers and staff alike—who make each day so special. He can’t wait to be part of another unforgettable summer filled with great food, great company, and even greater memories!
Summer K - Office Manager
Summer is from Wisconsin and recently graduated from UW-Stevens Point with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology. This will be her first summer at Camp Agawak, and she’s thrilled to be joining the team as our Office Manager! Summer is most excited to feel the energy and excitement all around camp and be part of such a special community. Whether she’s greeting families, supporting staff, or soaking up the camp spirit, she’s ready to make this summer one to remember!
Marsha P - Head Chef
Marsha is from Minocqua, Wisconsin, and is excited to join the Camp Agawak community as our Head Chef! With a career spent working with children and young adults as a coach, instructor, and mentor, Marsha brings both heart and experience to the kitchen. This will be her first summer at Agawak, and she can’t wait to share her love of the Northwoods, cooking, and all things food-related. She’s passionate about creating delicious meals and unforgettable memories around the dining table. Bon appétit—this summer is going to be a tasty one!
Sylvie G - Counselor
Sylvie is from San Antonio, Texas, and is a rising senior at Brandeis High School. This will be her 8th year at Camp Agawak and her 1st on staff! Sylvie is most excited to give new campers the best experience at the place they will soon call home. She loves waterskiing, sports, and of course, Blue and White! Sylvie can’t wait to be a counselor and make the most of every moment—this summer will be the best one yet!
Lily R - Counselor
Lily is from Sheboygan, Wisconsin, and is a rising senior at Kohler High School. This will be her 8th summer at Camp Agawak and her 1st on staff! Her favorite thing about camp is being with her friends and the overall vibe of being at Agawak. Lily is most excited to get to know her campers and reunite with her friends for another amazing summer!
