Name: Alicia Willis
Role at camp: Jinter Girls DH
Years at camp: 6
Our campers are having a safe and fun summer thanks to all our staff but especially to our Division Heads. Our DH’s are the cream of the crop; they are very experienced with kids and are well respected in their communities. Alicia Willis is no exception and returned to Camp Weequahic this year for her sixth summer with us. Five summers ago, she was a counselor for Jinter girls and a gymnastics coach at Camp Weequahic. Her energy, work ethic, and ability to connect with all the campers make her well known and beloved by everyone at Camp Weequahic. We decided to ask Alicia a few questions to see what makes her time at Camp Weequahic so special.
Camp Weequahic: Hi Alicia. We’ve been lucky to have you with us for six years. We’d love to ask you a few questions about your time at Camp Weequahic. Tell us a little about your background.
Alicia: I am from Canada, born near the American border in the town of Sarnia, Ontario. I recently graduated with a Masters of Social Work. I have two siblings, one older brother and a younger sister. We are extremely close. In my free time I like to walk down to the beach with a good book or watch a movie with the family.
Camp Weequahic: What is your experience working with children?
Alicia: I have worked with children in multiple settings including my church, school, and other community centers in my neighborhood. I have also worked at Camp Weequahic for 6 summers in many roles including bunk counselor for 4 years and coaching gymnastics. I was a division head for Junior girls last summer. I’m excited to work with the Jinters this summer!
Camp Weequahic: We have loved having you for six summers. You have helped make Camp Weequahic the place it is today. What does camp mean to you?
Alicia: It is hard to put into words what Weequahic means to me. Camp is a place where unlikely friendships become strong life long bonds. Weequahic is a place where people can be their true self and all personalities are welcomed. It has quickly become my home for the months of June, July, and August. My home away from home.
Camp Weequahic: Camp is definitely a place to make amazing memories. We have countless examples of lifelong friendships formed at Camp Weequahic, all possible because of staff members like you. What are some of your goals for the summer?
Alicia: I want to be a positive support for the counselors and campers to ensure that the summer will be memorable for all. I am really excited for the new challenge spending time with 5th and 6th grade girls. I started as a counselor for this division, and I am excited to be back with this age group.
Camp Weequahic: We are so excited to have you back with this group. We know you’re doing an amazing job. What is your favorite 
camp activity?
Alicia: Gymnastics, of course! My first 4 years at camp I was a gymnastics coach and loved every minute of being in the gym. I believe it is the best place to be at camp. If ever someone wants to learn how to fly, the gym is the place to start.
Camp Weequahic. Many of our campers love gymnastics, the gym is always full of campers learning new tricks and skills. Lastly, tell us a fun fact about you.
Alicia: My first language is English, but when I was younger, I learned how to read in French before I could read in English.
Camp Weequahic: Oh wow, that’s really interesting. We love learning the different backgrounds of our staff and campers. Thanks Alicia for talking with us today! We’re excited to see what this summer has in store for us!
