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.
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!
Emily Williams, Activity 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 14 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!
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!
Stephanie Becker Tasman, Director of Cabin Life
A familiar face on the shores of Blue Lake, Stephanie is thrilled to return to Camp Agawak for her 25th summer. A former camper, counselor, and assistant director, she now steps into the role of Director of Cabin Life, bringing with her a deep love for camp and a commitment to supporting both campers and staff. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Child Development from the University of Illinois and a master’s degree in Teaching from National Louis University, along with years of experience working with children of all ages. During the school year, she is the Owner and Director of Little Ones Preschool in Northbrook. A proud mom to Braden and Talia—both devoted Agawak campers—and wife to Shawn, she is excited to help create a summer filled with meaningful connections, growth, and unforgettable memories. Agawak is truly her happy place, and she can’t wait to share the magic with everyone!
Camp Staff
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Sophie F. - Counselor
Sophie is from Chicago and is returning to Camp Agawak for her eighth summer, and her first on staff. She loves the camp’s supportive and welcoming community, and some of her favorite parts of Agawak include Blue and White, daily activities, and spending time with friends. Sophie is excited to take on her new role as a counselor and help create a fun, positive experience for campers.
Zoë B. - Counselor
Zoë is from Melbourne, Australia, and is joining Camp Agawak for her very first summer. She was drawn to Agawak because of its welcoming, fun environment and can’t wait to be part of the community. Zoë is especially excited to make new friends and create lasting memories throughout the summer.
Lyla F. - Counselor
Lyla is from Northbrook and is spending her ninth summer at Camp Agawak, and her first on staff. She was drawn to Agawak because of its strong sense of community and the countless friendships she knew she could build. Lyla’s favorite part of camp is Sunday night campfire, a special tradition that brings the entire camp together. She’s excited to continue building connections and contributing to the community she loves as a counselor.
Amia K. - Counselor
Amia is from Deerfield and is returning to Agawak for her seventh summer, and her first on staff. After loving her years as a camper, she’s excited to step into the counselor role and help create those same memorable experiences for others. Amia’s favorite part of camp is being surrounded by amazing people and taking part in all of Agawak’s fun and unique traditions. She’s especially looking forward to making new connections and creating lasting memories this summer.
Leah S. - Counselor
After six summers as a camper, Leah is thrilled to be on staff at Agawak for the first time. She is from Deerfield, loves being part of the Agawak community, which she describes as incredibly accepting and kind. Leah especially enjoyed participating in Blue and White and spending her days trying new activities and making memories with friends. She’s excited to bring that same positive energy and enthusiasm to her role as a counselor.
Norah F. - Counselor
Norah is from Chicago and is spending her ninth summer at Camp Agawak—and her first on staff. Camp runs deep in Norah’s family: her grandmother, mother, sisters, and cousins all attended, making Agawak a cherished tradition for generations. After years of unforgettable camper experiences, Norah is excited to give back as a counselor and help create that same magic for others. Her favorite part of camp is Blue and White, where camp spirit and friendly competition come to life.
Maddie S. - Counselor
Maddie is from Deerfield and is returning to Agawak for her 8th summer and her first year as a counselor! Over the years, she has built friendships and memories that will last a lifetime, and she’s excited to continue being part of such a special community. Maddie can’t wait to meet her campers, have fun, and help make this summer unforgettable.
Leah M. - Counselor
Leah is coming to Camp Agawak from Scotland for her first summer and is ready for an unforgettable experience! She chose Agawak because it’s the perfect place for a fun-filled, all-girls summer. Leah is most excited to meet everyone, try out all the activities, and help campers have the best summer yet.
Cleo R. - Counselor
Cleo, from Australia, is coming to Camp Agawak for her very first summer! She was drawn to camp to experience its welcoming community and can’t wait to meet all the girls and create bonds that will last a lifetime. Cleo is excited to dive into camp life and make her first summer at Agawak truly unforgettable.
Sadie L. - Counselor
Sadie, from Chicago, is looking forward to her first year as a counselor at Camp Agawak after seven amazing summers as a camper! She has always loved camp and is especially inspired by the strong sense of community, where everyone feels connected, even if you’ve never spoken before. Sadie is looking excited for her first summer as a counselor and bringing her energy and enthusiasm to help campers make unforgettable memories.
