Hannah Rice, LCSW - Executive Director
I didn’t grow up attending camp as a child, but I spent nearly all my summers as a free-range kid exploring the woods around my home in Western North Carolina. That deep connection to nature led me to find community at the outdoor education program at UNC Charlotte. There, I discovered the transformative power of experiences to build confidence and foster personal growth. This is why I have loved working in the Leaders in Training program at Circle, where campers grow through experiences that challenge them.
Once I discovered the magic that is Circle Camps in 2018, I knew I would be back every summer after. Circle changed who I am as a person, inspiring me to pursue being a therapist for children and teens following my first summer at camp. Since that first summer, I have enjoyed leading circle time at camp and participating in grief activities on the clinical team as well as helping lead the LIT 4 trip.
When I’m not at camp, I keep myself busy with creative pursuits, outdoor adventures, and spending time with my friends. You’ll often find me performing with my improv team, crafting, reading, seeing live shows, or soaking up time in nature. I live in Charlotte, NC with my husband and our two mountain-loving adventure Chihuahuas, Dougie and Maggie.
I didn’t grow up attending camp as a child, but I spent nearly all my summers as a free-range kid exploring the woods around my home in Western North Carolina. That deep connection to nature led me to find community at the outdoor education program at UNC Charlotte. There, I discovered the transformative power of experiences to build confidence and foster personal growth. This is why I have loved working in the Leaders in Training program at Circle, where campers grow through experiences that challenge them.
Once I discovered the magic that is Circle Camps in 2018, I knew I would be back every summer after. Circle changed who I am as a person, inspiring me to pursue being a therapist for children and teens following my first summer at camp. Since that first summer, I have enjoyed leading circle time at camp and participating in grief activities on the clinical team as well as helping lead the LIT 4 trip.
When I’m not at camp, I keep myself busy with creative pursuits, outdoor adventures, and spending time with my friends. You’ll often find me performing with my improv team, crafting, reading, seeing live shows, or soaking up time in nature. I live in Charlotte, NC with my husband and our two mountain-loving adventure Chihuahuas, Dougie and Maggie.
Board of Directors
Peter Emmons, Chair
After graduating from Bowdoin College, I went to Emory School of Law and that is where I met Susan. Since the day I met her, Susan would always talk about camp. Her loving memories for camp then became a reality. In 2001, her former camp friend Sandi Welch called her and told Susan about Circle. Since then, our whole family has shared in the magic of Circle Camps. Both of my daughters, Lane and Ricky have worked at Circle, and they are deeply committed to and supportive of the camp and it’s purpose. Susan worked at Circle every summer and became a former Chair of Directors at Circle Camps. For almost 20 years, I have tried to advance Circle’s mission by volunteering and serving on the board of directors. It continues to be a wonderful journey.
Susan and I were married for 31 years before her death to cancer in March of 2016. My family and I continue to celebrate her life by surrounding ourselves with all the wonderful campers, counselors, staff and directors that make Circle a very special place; a place where girls can also celebrate life after experiencing a loss of a parent.
After graduating from Bowdoin College, I went to Emory School of Law and that is where I met Susan. Since the day I met her, Susan would always talk about camp. Her loving memories for camp then became a reality. In 2001, her former camp friend Sandi Welch called her and told Susan about Circle. Since then, our whole family has shared in the magic of Circle Camps. Both of my daughters, Lane and Ricky have worked at Circle, and they are deeply committed to and supportive of the camp and it’s purpose. Susan worked at Circle every summer and became a former Chair of Directors at Circle Camps. For almost 20 years, I have tried to advance Circle’s mission by volunteering and serving on the board of directors. It continues to be a wonderful journey.
Susan and I were married for 31 years before her death to cancer in March of 2016. My family and I continue to celebrate her life by surrounding ourselves with all the wonderful campers, counselors, staff and directors that make Circle a very special place; a place where girls can also celebrate life after experiencing a loss of a parent.
Rebecca Oring, Vice-Chair
I've spent part of almost every summer since I was nine years old at sleep away camp. Looking back, most of my emotional growth happened over the summer. Camp was my safe space, where I could try new things, where I could be me. Providing this environment for Circle Campers is what brings me back each year. Over the last seven years, I've had the opportunity to work with Circle's oldest campers, the LITs, our current and future leaders. These campers grow up with Circle, excitedly looking ahead to the time when they can be the inspiring role models that their counselors were for them when they were young. Watching campers that I knew when they were 8 years old grow up to be strong counselors, mentoring and comforting their own campers is a true joy.
When I'm not at Circle, I work for Habitat for Humanity in Charlotte, North Carolina managing government funding and advocacy to support affordable homeownership. I lead volunteer trips to build with our partners in El Salvador, Guatemala, and Cambodia. I love to travel, hike, and spend time with family, friends and my pup, Chispa.
I've spent part of almost every summer since I was nine years old at sleep away camp. Looking back, most of my emotional growth happened over the summer. Camp was my safe space, where I could try new things, where I could be me. Providing this environment for Circle Campers is what brings me back each year. Over the last seven years, I've had the opportunity to work with Circle's oldest campers, the LITs, our current and future leaders. These campers grow up with Circle, excitedly looking ahead to the time when they can be the inspiring role models that their counselors were for them when they were young. Watching campers that I knew when they were 8 years old grow up to be strong counselors, mentoring and comforting their own campers is a true joy.
When I'm not at Circle, I work for Habitat for Humanity in Charlotte, North Carolina managing government funding and advocacy to support affordable homeownership. I lead volunteer trips to build with our partners in El Salvador, Guatemala, and Cambodia. I love to travel, hike, and spend time with family, friends and my pup, Chispa.
Hannah French, Secretary
I can still remember my first summer at Circle. I was only nine and I had never been to sleepaway camp before, but my nervousness didn’t last. At camp, I was able to open up about the death of my father and feel like a normal kid. After a magical week, my sister and I returned home singing camp songs at the top of our lungs. We couldn’t wait to go back. Camp friends became year-round pen pals, and Circle at Tapawingo became our end-of-summer ritual. Naturally, I was thrilled to return to Circle Camps as a counselor in 2013, and have returned every summer since. As a counselor, I have assisted with many aspects of camp. Among other things, I’ve chaperoned buses, taught arts and crafts projects, led nature walks, and compiled songbooks for campers to enjoy. More importantly, I have had the incredible privilege of watching Circle campers find community and fall in love with Circle Camps year after year.
Meanwhile, my summers at Circle helped to shape my career. While completing my Bachelor’s degree in environmental science at UMass Amherst, I worked on campus as an arts-and-crafts instructor and off campus as an environmental educator and nature camp counselor. These roles helped to cement my love of all things camp as well as my passion for teaching, and I went on to earn my M.Ed. in elementary education from Antioch University of New England. I now teach third and fourth grade in Western Massachusetts. When I’m not teaching I enjoy playing the fiddle and banjo, creating artwork in my home studio, getting outdoors, and enjoying time with friends and family. I am proud to continue my work with Circle Camps, and honored to serve on the Board of Directors.
I can still remember my first summer at Circle. I was only nine and I had never been to sleepaway camp before, but my nervousness didn’t last. At camp, I was able to open up about the death of my father and feel like a normal kid. After a magical week, my sister and I returned home singing camp songs at the top of our lungs. We couldn’t wait to go back. Camp friends became year-round pen pals, and Circle at Tapawingo became our end-of-summer ritual. Naturally, I was thrilled to return to Circle Camps as a counselor in 2013, and have returned every summer since. As a counselor, I have assisted with many aspects of camp. Among other things, I’ve chaperoned buses, taught arts and crafts projects, led nature walks, and compiled songbooks for campers to enjoy. More importantly, I have had the incredible privilege of watching Circle campers find community and fall in love with Circle Camps year after year.
Meanwhile, my summers at Circle helped to shape my career. While completing my Bachelor’s degree in environmental science at UMass Amherst, I worked on campus as an arts-and-crafts instructor and off campus as an environmental educator and nature camp counselor. These roles helped to cement my love of all things camp as well as my passion for teaching, and I went on to earn my M.Ed. in elementary education from Antioch University of New England. I now teach third and fourth grade in Western Massachusetts. When I’m not teaching I enjoy playing the fiddle and banjo, creating artwork in my home studio, getting outdoors, and enjoying time with friends and family. I am proud to continue my work with Circle Camps, and honored to serve on the Board of Directors.
Julie McCarty, Treasurer
Growing up in a big family, my short stay at overnight camp during my teens was the first time I had ever been anywhere without my family. This experience, though brief, left an indelible mark on me, instilling a sense of independence and adventure that I cherished deeply.
As a parent, I wanted to provide my daughters with the same enriching experiences. They spent 48 weeks a year eagerly anticipating their 3 weeks at sleepaway camp. During their time at camp, they not only enjoyed the fun and camaraderie but also progressed through a leadership sequence similar to that at Circle Camp. This journey helped them build confidence, develop leadership skills, and form lifelong friendships.
Professionally, I dedicated my career to obstetrics and gynecology, a field where I had the privilege of supporting countless women through some of the most significant moments of their lives. In 2023, I decided to retire, seeking to balance my life with activities that rejuvenate me. Hiking, playing pickleball, and traveling have become my new passions, allowing me to explore the world and stay active.
Inspired by the impactful work at Circle Camp, I am eager to continue supporting this remarkable organization as a member of the board of directors. My goal is to contribute to the camp's mission, ensuring that many more children can benefit from the transformative experiences it offers. I believe in the power of community, leadership development, and the creation of lifelong bonds that camps like Circle Camp foster. It is with great enthusiasm that I look forward to this new chapter of involvement and support.
Growing up in a big family, my short stay at overnight camp during my teens was the first time I had ever been anywhere without my family. This experience, though brief, left an indelible mark on me, instilling a sense of independence and adventure that I cherished deeply.
As a parent, I wanted to provide my daughters with the same enriching experiences. They spent 48 weeks a year eagerly anticipating their 3 weeks at sleepaway camp. During their time at camp, they not only enjoyed the fun and camaraderie but also progressed through a leadership sequence similar to that at Circle Camp. This journey helped them build confidence, develop leadership skills, and form lifelong friendships.
Professionally, I dedicated my career to obstetrics and gynecology, a field where I had the privilege of supporting countless women through some of the most significant moments of their lives. In 2023, I decided to retire, seeking to balance my life with activities that rejuvenate me. Hiking, playing pickleball, and traveling have become my new passions, allowing me to explore the world and stay active.
Inspired by the impactful work at Circle Camp, I am eager to continue supporting this remarkable organization as a member of the board of directors. My goal is to contribute to the camp's mission, ensuring that many more children can benefit from the transformative experiences it offers. I believe in the power of community, leadership development, and the creation of lifelong bonds that camps like Circle Camp foster. It is with great enthusiasm that I look forward to this new chapter of involvement and support.
Jim Kieffer
I never went to summer camp when I was a child. In fact, I never even heard of summer camp nor did I know anyone who went to summer camp. I suppose it was just a fluke and that my friends and I were happy as clams wasting away our summer hours doing what teens do.
My limited knowledge of camps changed once I had children. My daughters have attended a variety of camps over the years and each time they enjoyed their adventures into different realms with different friends. I sit here today a strong proponent of the benefit of spending time at camp. I am doubly happy that a camping opportunity like Circle Camps exists. I lost my father when I was a teenager and know well the hurt and confusion that such a loss creates. I love that there are organizations out there that serve this very fragile population during a very fragile time in their lives.
Peter Emmons introduced me to Circle Camps via a random conversation. I don’t think he knew at the time that I had been a longtime supporter of Kate’s Club, an Atlanta-based organization that locally serves children who have lost a parent. I am glad he made me aware of Circle Camps, and I have been an enthusiastic supporter ever since. I am honored to have been asked to serve on the Board of Directors and look forward to helping Circle Camps thrive and expand.
When working, I spend my hours picking stocks and managing investment funds for Artisan Partners Asset Management. When not working, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends taking advantage of life’s bounty. The more travel, the better.
I never went to summer camp when I was a child. In fact, I never even heard of summer camp nor did I know anyone who went to summer camp. I suppose it was just a fluke and that my friends and I were happy as clams wasting away our summer hours doing what teens do.
My limited knowledge of camps changed once I had children. My daughters have attended a variety of camps over the years and each time they enjoyed their adventures into different realms with different friends. I sit here today a strong proponent of the benefit of spending time at camp. I am doubly happy that a camping opportunity like Circle Camps exists. I lost my father when I was a teenager and know well the hurt and confusion that such a loss creates. I love that there are organizations out there that serve this very fragile population during a very fragile time in their lives.
Peter Emmons introduced me to Circle Camps via a random conversation. I don’t think he knew at the time that I had been a longtime supporter of Kate’s Club, an Atlanta-based organization that locally serves children who have lost a parent. I am glad he made me aware of Circle Camps, and I have been an enthusiastic supporter ever since. I am honored to have been asked to serve on the Board of Directors and look forward to helping Circle Camps thrive and expand.
When working, I spend my hours picking stocks and managing investment funds for Artisan Partners Asset Management. When not working, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends taking advantage of life’s bounty. The more travel, the better.
Evan Pursley
I had been hearing about Circle Camps for eight summers, but never quite saw how I, then a 20-something year-old guy, would fit in a camp of 100+ screaming girls. As a Mother’s Day gift, my mom, the Head Nurse at the time, requested that I join her for one summer as a land sports counselor. I didn't know what to expect. I figured I would volunteer for just one week of just one summer and that would be the end.
I’ve never been so happy to be so wrong.
That summer was a transformative experience that I’ll never forget. It was exhausting. It was emotional. More than anything, it was rewarding. That week I gained 100+ new little sisters and I couldn’t imagine another summer without them. I didn’t know it at the time, but Circle would become an even bigger part of my life. A few weeks after returning from camp, my uncle died suddenly and unexpectedly, leaving my two younger cousins in a world of hurt. But thanks to Circle, I knew the perfect place where they could grieve, grow and learn to adjust to their “new normal.”
Since then I have served as a board member and Circle at EKC's Camp Director for three summers. I’m truly grateful that my decision to volunteer for just one week over a decade ago and that I can continue to contribute to Circle's mission as a returning board member.
I had been hearing about Circle Camps for eight summers, but never quite saw how I, then a 20-something year-old guy, would fit in a camp of 100+ screaming girls. As a Mother’s Day gift, my mom, the Head Nurse at the time, requested that I join her for one summer as a land sports counselor. I didn't know what to expect. I figured I would volunteer for just one week of just one summer and that would be the end.
I’ve never been so happy to be so wrong.
That summer was a transformative experience that I’ll never forget. It was exhausting. It was emotional. More than anything, it was rewarding. That week I gained 100+ new little sisters and I couldn’t imagine another summer without them. I didn’t know it at the time, but Circle would become an even bigger part of my life. A few weeks after returning from camp, my uncle died suddenly and unexpectedly, leaving my two younger cousins in a world of hurt. But thanks to Circle, I knew the perfect place where they could grieve, grow and learn to adjust to their “new normal.”
Since then I have served as a board member and Circle at EKC's Camp Director for three summers. I’m truly grateful that my decision to volunteer for just one week over a decade ago and that I can continue to contribute to Circle's mission as a returning board member.
Kaitlyn Farmer
My connection to Circle Camps began in the founding summer of Circle at Tapawingo in 2002, as a young camper grieving the loss of my father. Now, I'm a Boston-based nonprofit leader, arts educator, and college access counselor with 10+ years of experience. I received a BA from Emmanuel College in Sociology with a concentration in Human Services and a minor in Psychology. In 2022, I earned a Certificate in Social Impact Management and Leadership from the Institute of Nonprofit Practice through Tufts University.
I have professional experience teaching in schools and non-profit spaces. I currently serve as the Project Launch Senior Manager at Raw Art Works, a creative youth development organization rooted in art therapy. Project Launch empowers youth to meet their full potential — offering weekly workshops, individualized coaching, and a robust volunteer mentorship program for RAW’s senior class. In my former role as Community Engagement Manager, I founded “Artists in Action”, a civic-engagement teen leadership program focused on creating social change and positively impacting the local community through the arts.
Much of my professional journey has been a “full circle” experience, giving back to organizations, like Circle Camps, that have had a profound impact on my own development. Traveling to new places, finding creative outlets for artistic expression, and spending quality time with my beloved dog, Maple, are personal passions of mine.
My connection to Circle Camps began in the founding summer of Circle at Tapawingo in 2002, as a young camper grieving the loss of my father. Now, I'm a Boston-based nonprofit leader, arts educator, and college access counselor with 10+ years of experience. I received a BA from Emmanuel College in Sociology with a concentration in Human Services and a minor in Psychology. In 2022, I earned a Certificate in Social Impact Management and Leadership from the Institute of Nonprofit Practice through Tufts University.
I have professional experience teaching in schools and non-profit spaces. I currently serve as the Project Launch Senior Manager at Raw Art Works, a creative youth development organization rooted in art therapy. Project Launch empowers youth to meet their full potential — offering weekly workshops, individualized coaching, and a robust volunteer mentorship program for RAW’s senior class. In my former role as Community Engagement Manager, I founded “Artists in Action”, a civic-engagement teen leadership program focused on creating social change and positively impacting the local community through the arts.
Much of my professional journey has been a “full circle” experience, giving back to organizations, like Circle Camps, that have had a profound impact on my own development. Traveling to new places, finding creative outlets for artistic expression, and spending quality time with my beloved dog, Maple, are personal passions of mine.
Julia Manhood
In 2021, I had the privilege of volunteering at Circle Camps at EKC—the inaugural summer of the post-Covid era. I loved being surrounded by the vibrant energy of girls and young women immersed in their journeys of self-discovery while having an absolute blast. I also enjoyed being part of the team that sought creative ways to enhance the camp experience; it’s incredible how a shared vision can unite such remarkable individuals. I’m truly honored to join this dynamic group as a board member.
As a Master Beekeeper who’s been teaching the art of beekeeping in Georgia prisons since 2016, I’ve learned that both creativity and community generate healing and personal growth. I have enjoyed a career as a graphic artist, and I love spending time outdoors and creating things. My husband and I have two amazing grown sons, ten chickens, and a whole lot of honey bees.
In 2021, I had the privilege of volunteering at Circle Camps at EKC—the inaugural summer of the post-Covid era. I loved being surrounded by the vibrant energy of girls and young women immersed in their journeys of self-discovery while having an absolute blast. I also enjoyed being part of the team that sought creative ways to enhance the camp experience; it’s incredible how a shared vision can unite such remarkable individuals. I’m truly honored to join this dynamic group as a board member.
As a Master Beekeeper who’s been teaching the art of beekeeping in Georgia prisons since 2016, I’ve learned that both creativity and community generate healing and personal growth. I have enjoyed a career as a graphic artist, and I love spending time outdoors and creating things. My husband and I have two amazing grown sons, ten chickens, and a whole lot of honey bees.
Molly Callahan
Growing up, I spent my summers close to home, exploring my own neighborhood with my siblings and friends. In fact, aside from a weeklong Girl Scouts camp in middle school (where, not to brag, my troop won the "Golden Spoon" award for our campfire kebabs), my only camping experience is out in the woods with my dad, brother, and sister. I cherish those memories—cooking eggs and bacon over a fire, trekking around through trails and streams, and falling asleep to the chirping sounds of the Vermont state parks.
These memories are so precious to me, in part, because my father—the leader of our little family camp troop—passed away in 2018. Since then, I've been invested in joining and fostering grief support groups in all their various forms. Personally, I've found lifelong friendship in my grief community, and so I've learned firsthand how important and special these spaces can be. As a board member for Circle Camps, I'm looking forward to being even a small part of building that community for girls around the country.
Growing up, I spent my summers close to home, exploring my own neighborhood with my siblings and friends. In fact, aside from a weeklong Girl Scouts camp in middle school (where, not to brag, my troop won the "Golden Spoon" award for our campfire kebabs), my only camping experience is out in the woods with my dad, brother, and sister. I cherish those memories—cooking eggs and bacon over a fire, trekking around through trails and streams, and falling asleep to the chirping sounds of the Vermont state parks.
These memories are so precious to me, in part, because my father—the leader of our little family camp troop—passed away in 2018. Since then, I've been invested in joining and fostering grief support groups in all their various forms. Personally, I've found lifelong friendship in my grief community, and so I've learned firsthand how important and special these spaces can be. As a board member for Circle Camps, I'm looking forward to being even a small part of building that community for girls around the country.
Laurie Willcoxon
As a young girl, I spent four unforgettable weeks each summer at an all-girls camp in Brevard, North Carolina. The memories I made there remain some of my most cherished, and I deeply value the friendships, confidence, and personal growth that experience provided. Having witnessed firsthand the transformative power of camp, I understand its lasting impact on young lives.
With a strong background in philanthropy and community service, I have successfully led fundraising initiatives supporting children and the arts, including efforts for the Cathedral Preschool, the High Museum of Art, the Atlanta Ballet, and the Atlanta Symphony. I am eager to bring this experience to Circle Camp, helping to expand resources, strengthen outreach, and uphold its vital mission.I look forward to contributing to Circle Camp’s efforts in providing a nurturing environment where girls can heal, grow, and thrive.
I am now retired after a fulfilling 35-year career as a flight attendant with Delta Airlines. My passion for travel remains strong, especially when it involves adventure—whether hiking or biking. At home, I maintain an active lifestyle, enjoying long walks, hiking, barre classes, yoga, and playing pickleball. I love entertaining family and friends. I cherish time spent cooking with my son and daughter, creating memories in the kitchen.
As a young girl, I spent four unforgettable weeks each summer at an all-girls camp in Brevard, North Carolina. The memories I made there remain some of my most cherished, and I deeply value the friendships, confidence, and personal growth that experience provided. Having witnessed firsthand the transformative power of camp, I understand its lasting impact on young lives.
With a strong background in philanthropy and community service, I have successfully led fundraising initiatives supporting children and the arts, including efforts for the Cathedral Preschool, the High Museum of Art, the Atlanta Ballet, and the Atlanta Symphony. I am eager to bring this experience to Circle Camp, helping to expand resources, strengthen outreach, and uphold its vital mission.I look forward to contributing to Circle Camp’s efforts in providing a nurturing environment where girls can heal, grow, and thrive.
I am now retired after a fulfilling 35-year career as a flight attendant with Delta Airlines. My passion for travel remains strong, especially when it involves adventure—whether hiking or biking. At home, I maintain an active lifestyle, enjoying long walks, hiking, barre classes, yoga, and playing pickleball. I love entertaining family and friends. I cherish time spent cooking with my son and daughter, creating memories in the kitchen.