Who We Are
Click on the links below to meet our amazing 2010 Summer Camp Staff!
Dan O'Neil, Camp Director
This is Dan’s 7th summer at Congressional and 3rd as Director. Dan grew up here in the Washington DC Area and graduated from James Madison University. Prior to coming to Congo Camp, Dan taught PE for 4 years as well as working for a local tour and travel operator. An avid soccer fan, player and coach Dan is excited for this summer’s World Cup and a camp wide special event to celebrate the quadrennial tournament. When not on campus, Dan enjoys spending time with his wife Kim and daughter Kendra.
Ashley Naranjo, Assistant Camp Director
Ashley Naranjo has spent 16 summers at Congressional Camp in just about every role--as a camper, CIT, Day Camp and Teen Travel counselor, Programming Staff member and currently, as the year-round Assistant Camp Director. Ashley oversees the planning of Day Camp activities, Travel Camps, Specialty Camps and mentors the CITs in their training. She graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree from Boston College, studying Developmental Psychology and doing research on the cognitive benefits of children who participate in the arts. After graduating, she spent a year teaching English in Quito, Ecuador and is the former director of an International College in Washington, DC, specializing in ESL. One of the joys of working at camp for so long has been watching her former young campers become counselors themselves. Outside of camp, she enjoys traveling, running and practicing yoga.
Josh Rodgers, Great Adventures and EHP Director
This is Josh’s 10th summer working for Congressional Camp. Originally a Theatre Education major at East Carolina University, he began working with the Extended Hours Program the summer after his first year in college. The following summer, he began working as a Great Adventures Counselor. Josh fell in love with the early childhood age group and began working full time as a teaching assistant in the Early Childhood Building the spring of ‘03. Coming full circle, Josh now oversees the Extended Hours Program for school and camp, as well as Great Adventures during the summer. Josh’s passions now include theatre, dance, music and spending time with his niece and nephew.
Ana Castillo, Assistant to Camp Director/ Camp Office Manager
Ana has been working at Congressional for the past six years and has loved every minute. Ana manages our camp office and is a valuable resource for parents' questions and concerns. If your child is arriving late, leaving early or absent, Ana is the person to contact. With a wealth of knowledge, she helps make camp a smooth operation for everyone.
Anne Stewart Claytor, Director of Programming for Day Camp
I am Anne Stewart Claytor, but most people around camp call me Stewy. I have spent countless summers as a camper and a staff member at an all girls camp in West Virginia. After graduating from Elon University and being hired in Fairfax County, as a third grade teacher, I decided to stay around here for the summer. Last summer was my first summer as Director of Programming for Day Camp. I’m thrilled to back as the Director of Programming for Day Camp again this summer.
Brynn Elise Dorsey, Head Counselor
Brynn Elise Dorsey is happy to be working at Congressional Camp this summer as one of the Head Counselors/Parent Liaisons! She graduated from James Madison University in 2007 with a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and Spanish. She has spent the years since college in Arizona working for Americorps, in Spain teaching English as a Second Language, and in the DC area working as the Director of an ESL institution. She is excited for an awesome summer with all of the staff and campers!
Caitlin Folan, Head Counselor
This is Caitlin Folan's first summer at Congressional Camp! She has past camp experience in North Carolina. is the Parent Liason and answers any and all questions and concerns that parents have throughout their children's camp experience. Caitlin graduated from the University of Virginia with a Bachelor's Degree in English and a Masters of Teaching in Elementary Education. Since graduating, she has moved to the area and teaches Kindergarten at Daniels Run Elementary School in Fairfax, VA. Outside of camp, Caitlin enjoys cooking and relaxing with roommates, seeing the sights, and trying new restaurants in the DC area.
Maryanne Henderson, EHP Supervisor (1st-9th graders)
Maryanne graduated from Furman University in Greenville, SC with a BA in sociology. After graduation she worked with Greenville United Way as Community Affairs Associate. In addition she was the Assistant Director of a non-profit associated with Furman University called Mere Christianity Forum, where she primarily worked in the organization's financial development and programming to create spaces in which college students might discuss the integration of faith with their academic world through communal living, intellectual dialogue, the arts and hospitality. Prior to working at Congressional Maryanne served as an intern in the White House Domestic Policy Council. Growing up Maryanne spent 12 summers as a camper/counselor at a camp in North Carolina. The experience of summer camp has been integral to her growth as a person. This is Maryanne's very first summer at Congressional Camp and she is thrilled to be here.
Cecilia Baxter
My name is Cecilia Baxter and this is my first year as a camp counselor at Congressional Camp. I have attended overnight camps since the age of 10 and I have had experience as a C.I.T. at Camp St. Charles. I will be graduating from Bishop Ireton High School in Alexandria, VA this June and I will be attending Fordham University in New York City this fall. I plan to either major in Latin American Studies or Political Science. I am a year-round rower and I love being outdoors and active. I am very excited to work at congressional this summer!
Ruth Bradley
This is Ruth Bradley’s first year working at Congressional Camp. She will be graduating from Paul VI High School this year and is very excited to be attending the University of Delaware in the fall where she is planning on majoring in Fashion Merchandising. Although Ruth has never been a counselor at Congressional Camp before, she is ready for the new experience and is excited to be working with kids of all ages. She has many great summer camp memories of her own and can’t wait to create new ones with the campers during her favorite season! Some of Ruth’s interests include hanging out with friends, going to the beach, traveling, cooking, and being outside.
Allison Conner
My name is Allison Conner. I am a recent graduate at Radford University with a B.S. in elementary education. I have always enjoyed working with children, especially during my senior year as a student teacher in a first and fifth grade classroom. Previously working at Bean Tree Learning Center, I have experience working with children; infants - 12years and enjoy each exciting age group. In the future I hope to pursue my career in education teaching abroad and traveling. Aside from teaching, I enjoy sports, music and being outdoors.
Claire Goodwin
I grew up in Falls Church and Vienna, graduating from St. James and Bishop O’Connell High School, where I played JV Volleyball and was a member of the Royalettes Dance Team. I just completed my freshman year at Virginia Tech, where I am majoring in Human Development with a focus on Social Work. I am a sister of the Delta Gamma sorority, in which we raise money for our philanthropy, Service for Sight, and participate in several community service projects around Blacksburg. As long as I can remember, camp has been a big part of my life. I attended camp in the Adirondacks for 6 years and was a counselor during my last year. I am very excited to be working at Congressional Camp this summer!
Katie Howe
This is Katie’s second summer working as a counselor at Congressional Camp, but she was also a camper from the ages of 6 to 11. She is a 2009 graduate of Paul VI Catholic High School in Fairfax, VA. Katie is entering into her sophomore year at Fordham University in New York City and is planning on majoring in Communications. While at Fordham, Katie volunteered at a cerebral palsy center, played with her dorm team in the school intramural softball league, and likes to keep up with her love for tennis in her spare time. While in New York, Katie loves going to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Broadway shows, and being able to take advantage of all that the city has to offer.
Cara Iselin
Hello! My name is Cara Iselin and I am 19 years old. I have been working as a summer camp counselor for the past three summers at a different summer camp but I have heard so many great things about Congo Camp and am so excited to be apart of it. I went to Robinson Secondary for high school and now attend Virginia Tech. I am a sophomore studying Human Development and hope to go and on and get my masters and become an elementary school teacher. See you all this summer!
Paige Kerrigan
Hi, my name is Paige Kerrigan. I am a freshman at Ohio University and studying Middle School Education. I went to George Mason High School and graduated in 2009. I went to Congressional Camp from when I was nine years old until I was fourteen. I have made some of my best friends at Congo Camp. I have been working at Congressional Camp for 4 years. On my free time I play sports, listen to music, and I love to meet new people. Welcome to Congressional and I hope you enjoy!!
Carly Maalouf
Carly Maalouf is a rising junior at the University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg, Virginia, where she is majoring in Theatre and pursuing a teacher licensure in Theatre Arts. She has taught acting, musical theatre, and movement at summer drama camps at Bishop Ireton High School, Blessed Sacrament School, and the Little Theatre of Alexandria in Alexandria, Virginia. Carly loves teaching, working with children of all ages, reading, art, dance, music, iced tea, and, of course, all things theatre! She is a brand new Day Camp Counselor, and is looking forward to a wonderful first summer at Congressional Camp!
Colette Maimone
Colette Maimone is a recent graduate of Oakcrest School in Mclean. In the fall, she is headed off to Annapolis to study liberal arts at St. Johns College. She loves to read, listen to and sing an eclectic assortment of music, make jewelry, and dance ballet. This is her first year as a counselor at Congressional, and she is really excited about it!
Elizabeth Marsden
Hi! My name is Elizabeth Marsden, and I'm from Arlington, Virginia. I was a Congo Camper from Great Adventures to Teen Travel, and I'm really excited to be a Counselor at Congressional this summer. I am a History major and a rising Sophomore at Santa Clara University (near San Francisco). My favorite thing to do at camp was and still is the zip line--even though it scared the heck out of me the first time I did it. When I'm not at camp or doing school work, I love reading, sailing, and hanging out with friends.
Claire McNabb
While this is Claire's first summer at Congressional Camp she is looking forward to many great summers to come! She attends James Madison University in Harrisonburg, VA where she studies History and French. Claire also enjoys running, hiking, dancing, going to the movies, skiing, and eating humus.
Samantha Melvin
Hi! I'm Samantha Melvin and this is my first summer as a counselor at Congressional Camp. I was a camper here for a few years during elementary school, and have attended all kinds of overnight camps almost every summer since then. As a sophomore at Wesleyan University in Middletown, Connecticut, I'm majoring in psychology with a concentration on child development. I love working with kids and have both worked and volunteered with them in various capacities over the years, so I can't wait for camp to get underway!
Hillary Porter
This summer will be Hillary’s 5th year as a counselor at Congressional Camp, before that she had attended Congressional as a camper for 8 years. She is a rising sophomore at the University of Delaware. She plans to declare her major in the fall as Human Development and Family Studies with a minor in Medical Diagnostics. Throughout the year, she has volunteered at an after school program in the Newark, DE area where she has worked with Kindergarteners. She is also involved in the volunteer programs Circle-K and the Student Association for the Education of Young Children. She is looking forward to another wonderful summer at camp.
Cassie Sharp
This is my second summer at Congressional Camp. I am an almost graduate from High Point University. I received a degree in Human Relations for Human Services. I enjoy spending time outside as well as being around friends and family. I have a passion for working with kids. In the future I hope to be a teacher and work with kids who have disabilities.
Caroline Sitcov
My name is Caroline Sitcov, I’m 19 years old and I’ve been a counselor with Congressional Camp for 3 years. I started as a camper in Great Adventures when I was younger and I had such an amazing time that I couldn’t wait to be a counselor! Over the past year, I’ve been attending Paul Mitchell The School to get my cosmetology license and I hope to start working in a salon this fall.
Peter Taylor
This is my second year at Congressional as a EHP Counselor and first as a Day Camp Counselor. I plan on attending George Mason University in the fall and pursue a degree in Sports Management. I'm also a big fan of the Baltimore Orioles baseball team and I enjoy running and staying active.
Chris Wolberg
Hi, I'm Chris. I've been working here for six years and was previously a camper for another seven years. I truly never want to leave! I go to Virginia Tech and am studying Biochemistry with a minor in Chemistry and Horticulture. I hope to go to dental school when I graduate in 2012. While in Blacksburg I enjoy spending time with friends, going to the movies, being outdoors, enjoying the quiet, small-town atmosphere, and the large, loud college scene. I am a Resident Advisor for the Honors Community and am a brother in the Alpha Chi Sigma Chemistry Academic Fraternity. I've had experience in almost every position here at camp. I've been a counselor for all age groups, and worked as an arts and crafts, outdoor ed, and sports counselor. This year I will be a floater, filling in where needed. I am extremely excited to start camp and can not wait to meet the campers and their parents!
Rachel Ansley
My name is Rachel Ansley, and I am currently a sophomore at Georgetown Visitation High School. My academic interests include English and History, both of which classes I am enrolled in the AP level. I am an active member of both the winter and spring track teams as well as the art club. Outside of school, I also play on a Rec. Soccer team. I have been a camper at Congressional Day Camp every summer since I was 5 years old, as well as a Counselor in Training last summer (09), so I know a great deal about the camp and how it works. A great deal of my time is spent around children as the neighborhood babysitter and as an aunt of 3 young children.
Lydia Carpenter
Lydia Carpenter is beginning her 2nd summer at Congressional with the Equine Staff. She is a rising senior at Yorktown High School in Arlington and will be looking at colleges this summer in her spare time. Lydia enjoys swimming competitively and horseback riding. She lifeguards at a neighborhood swimming pool during the weekends with her swimming teammates as well.
Matt Chambers
My name is Matt Chambers. I am a junior at W.T. Woodson High School in Fairfax, Virginia. I started as a camper at Congressional Camp when I was eight years old and have been here every summer since then. I especially enjoyed the Team Travel and Specialty Camps. This is my third year as a counselor. I enjoy being on my high school robotics team and I am looking forward to going to the nationals this summer.
Reese Clatterbuck
Hello,my name is Reese Clatterbuck. I attend Evangel Christian School in Woodbridge. I have been a student at Evangel for the past eight years. In the fall, I will start my junior year. I have also been a member of the Congressional family for the past three years. For two years, I was a camper and last summer I had the opportunity to serve as a counselor in training (CIT). Some of my affiliations are Boy Scouts of America, Christian Club, and junior varsity basketball. I have also represented Evangel in geography, spelling, and art at the regional and the state levels in ODACS competitions. I have been selected as a candidate for the National Honor Society and National Youth Leadership Forum on Medicine. A few of my favorite summer activities are swimming, arts and crafts, archery, and hiking. And like most males enjoy an occasional video game.
Robert Cole
Robert attended Congressional Camp for many summers. Over the years he made so many friends, and had so much fun, that he wanted to continue his camp experience as a counselor. He worked last summer as a Counselor in Training, and this summer he will be a Junior Counselor. Robert is a rising junior at Yorktown High School in Arlington. His favorite subjects are math, history, and art. He plays the baritone sax in the marching band and the jazz ensemble. His favorite sport is basketball, and his hobbies include drawing, listening to music, and hanging out with his friends. Robert loves working with kids, and he is eager to help campers develop their own great experiences at Congressional Camp!
Seth Conner
My name is Seth Conner; I am currently 16 years of age. I am a Loudoun County Virginia Native. I stay very active with what I do; I snowboard, paintball, play lacrosse, and do a lot with my friends. I work at Hogback Mountain Paintball right now; I referee kids and everyone who plays.
Camille Darling
This will be Camille Darling’s first year working at the Congressional Camp. She attends George Mason High and plays for the varsity girls soccer team. Camille became fluent in French after spending a summer abroad in France last year. She has been babysitting for six years and has greatly matured from the lessons that she learned from watching kids. During her free time, Camille enjoys visiting new places, running, and spending time with her friends. She looks forward to being a part of the staff team and being a part of the same great experience that she had as a camper at Congressional Camp.
Taylor Enders
Taylor Enders is a former Congressional student and camper since she was two months old, being toted around by dear old dad, John Enders, the current facilities manager. Now a rising senior (yeeeeah!) at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, her interests include playing varsity field hockey and varsity basketball. She tutors students and is a member of the Book Buddies club at nearby Weyanoke Elementary School, participates in the Keyettes (a girl’s service club), and has been a Relay for Life (a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society) team captain for the last three years. If she has any free time after those activities and the gargantuan amount of homework that awaits her every night, she enjoys running, eating everything in sight, laughing, spending time with friends and family, and relaxing.
Abby Fram
Hi, I’m Abby Fram. I was a CIT at Congressional Camp last year and used to go here when I was little. I am a rising junior at Washington-Lee High School. I love singing and music, as well as sports. I look forward to this summer!
Katy Jones-Powe
Katy Jones – Powe went to Congressional for nine years and attended the camp every summer. When she graduated eighth grade, she worked as a CIT. Now, as a sophomore at St. Stephens and St Agnes School, she is looking forward to being a junior counselor for the art specialty camps. She has always loved anything related to art. For example, after school she spends her time building sets for the plays and musicals or working on her projects for ceramics classes. She cannot wait to instilling this passion for visual arts in her campers.
Katie Killian
I am sixteen years old and I am now attending Bishop O'Connell High School. I am a good student and I enjoy having fun. The reason I wanted this job was because I have attended this school over the summer and I enjoyed it. I would like to share that experience with the little kids so then they may wish to do the same. When I went here I went horseback riding and I really enjoyed that. I am a very energetic person and I always have a smile on my face no matter what. I am going to be a rising junior when I go to camp. I am always dedicated to my work and I always have a good attitude.
Matt Kraft
Matthew is a rising senior at W.T. Woodson High School. This is his 3rd summer as a camp counselor, and his first working for Congressional Camp. Matthew enjoys playing all types of sports especially basketball, playing in the turnpike league for over 9 years and coaching a team in the Mantua Elementary School league this past season as well as playing soccer for over 6 years in BRYC. He is also currently a member of the Woodson Ultimate Frisbee Team. In addition to his love of sports and the outdoors, Matthew is involved in a broad range of school activities, including Key Club, ACE and Varsity Math team.
Angel Maimone
Angel Maimone is a rising 11th grader at Oakcrest School in McLean, Virginia. She enjoys art and writing, along with singing and playing the piano and guitar. This is her first year working at Congressional Camp, and she hopes to have a lot of fun with all the kids!
Violet Miller
Hello! My name is Violet Miller, and I just completed my Junior year at George Mason High School. I attended Congressional camp when I was 9 years old and had an awesome time, due to the friends I made and awesome Staff! Part of the reason I wanted to be a member of the Congressional Camp Staff was to make the campers time at the Congressional Camp as enjoyable as mine was. Another huge reason I wanted to be a member of the Staff is that I love to work with kids! I babysit all the time, and really enjoy doing it. It's very important for a Staff member to be able to keep up with the campers (to some extent). I play on a very high level soccer team and am close to committing to a division 1 college to play soccer. Thus, I am very active and should be able to almost keep up with the campers. This will be my first year as a camp counselor, but since I have so much experience watching kids, I think I should be well prepared for the job! I am very excited and can't wait to begin working!
Sarah Nielsen
This is Sarah Nielsen’s first summer working for Congressional Camp; however she was a camper here as a kid. Currently a rising junior at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, she loves working with kids and is very excited to work at Congressional camp this summer. Sarah has worked and volunteered for many other summer programs, such as TOP Soccer, Youth in Motion, and co-ran a soccer camp for a Girl Scout project. Her interests include soccer, running, reading, and pretty much any outdoor activity.
Manasa Pallapolu
Hi, My name is Manasa Pallapolu and I am a rising Junior at Fairfax High School. During the school year I am involved in various different activities such as Student Government, Model UN, DECA and Tennis in school. As well as interning for the Clerk to the Board and volunteering at various other places outside of school. Last summer I was a CIT at Oak Marr Rec Center which was an amazing experience. Through my experience at Oak Marr I feel as if I can be a wonderful Junior Counselor which is why I cant wait to start camp and meet everyone.
Abby Perlin
Hi, my name is Abby Perlin. This is my first summer working at Congressional. I was a camper for four years. I am a raising senior at West Springfield High School. During the school year I participate on my school’s debate team and teach Sunday school. After high school, I plan to become a medical geneticist. My hobbies include shopping, reading and spending time with my family.
Kristina Pontillo
Hi, I’m Kristina Pontillo and have finished my sophomore year at Bishop O’Connell High School. I attended the Congressional Schools from kindergarten through eighth grade and went to Congressional Summer Camp every summer. I enjoyed my Congressional experiences then, and I am glad to be back at camp for my second summer as a staff member. I look forward to spending this summer with your child and hope to have a great time!
Carly Robinson
Carly Robinson is a rising senior at Bishop O’Connell High School in Arlington Virginia. She is an alumnus of Congressional Schools and Camp and this is her third summer working as a summer camp counselor. In addition to being an honor student, Carly participates in O’Connell softball, in-door track, Spanish honor society and Keyettes. After high school, she plans to pursue a career in Veterinary Medicine.
Alex Solomon
My name is Alex Solomon. I am 16 years old and in the 10th grade. The high school that I attend is called St. Stephens and St. Agnes School. I play football for the school team. I have been going to Congressional Camp ever since I was in the 3rd grade. Last year I worked as a Counselor in Training. This will be my first year working at Congressional Camp. My favorite sports are football and basketball. I also enjoy hanging out with my friends, watching movies, and playing video games.
Leah Sredl
My name is Leah Sredl. I am a rising junior at Bishop O'Connell High School. I play soccer year round and enjoy cooking, running, and tennis. I have been a camper at Congressional ever since I was in Great Adventures. This is my first year working at the camp. I take fluent Spanish classes and my favorite subject is psychology. I am so excited to finally get to work at Congressional Day Camp and hope to have an enjoyable summer!
Carrie Vergel de Dios
Carrie Vergel de Dios is a rising senior at Annandale High School. It is her first year working at Congressional Camp. She enjoys spending time with kids and volunteers as an assistant track coach for St. Michael's 3rd through 8th graders during the spring and fall seasons. She participates in cross country and track. Her other hobbies and interests include photography, environmental science, listening to every genre of music, tie dying, and watching animated disney and pixar movies.
Jocelyn Acheampong
My name is Joycelynn Acheampong. I am 15 years old and my family comes from Ghana in Africa but I was born in Massachusetts. I will be a sophmore this year at my high school. I love music, sports, reading, and science. I love traveling to different states and countries.. I have been to 3 different countries so far (I'm hoping for more!!). My favorite sport is soccer and the World Cup is definitely going to be what I watch for most of the summer, but I do enjoy playing soccer, basketball, and volleyball and swimming. Books are what consume the summer and of course MOVIES! I am hoping to just to have this summer and gain a wonderful experience with new people.
Ife Bell
I have attended Congo Camp for the past four years. I attended day, travel, sports (Badminton) and specialty (Equestrian, Digital Photography and Outdoors) camps. I will be in 10th grade at Christ Chapel Academy in Woodbridge, VA in the 2010-2011 academic year. I played on our Girls Varsity Soccer Team and Co-ed Cross Country Team. I was the manager and statistician for the Varsity Girls Basketball Team, as well as keeping stats for the Middle School Boys and Girls Basketball Teams. I am interested in Digital Photography and Drama. I enjoy working with children and served as an afterschool assistant for 3rd grade.
Nick Bourbeau
Nick is a rising 10th grader, and he attends George Mason High School. Nick attended Congressional through the 7th grade, and has gone to Congressional Camp every summer since he was three. Nick enjoys sports and he played on George Mason High School's football, basketball, and baseball teams this past year. He is looking forward to working with the kids attending Congressional Camp this summer.
Ian Elliot
Hi, my name is Ian Elliott. I am a rising 10th grader at Yorktown High School in Arlington. I have gone to Congressional Camp since 1st grade and I’ve enjoyed every year. This is my first year as a Counselor in Training and I’m very excited to get started. Congressional was always the highlight of my summer and I always thought of eventually becoming a CIT. Also, I find myself understanding with kids and since I know the basics of Congo camp, I know that I will be a great addition to the camp and make this summer my best of all.
Nicole Gertenbach
Hi! My name is Nicole Gertenbach. I am an enthusiastic rising sophomore at Paul VI Catholic High School in Fairfax, Virginia. I love to play sports especially basketball, and lacrosse. I love to work with children and I have a six year old brother who is a camper. I am a former camper as well and I can’t wait to spend my summer at CONGO camp!
Michael Hawkins
Hello! I'm Michael Hawkins. I have been a camper for 10 years at Congressional and know most of the staff and campus grounds. In the fall, I will be a sophomore at Bishop O'Connell High School. I enjoy artistic classes such as drawing and graphic arts. I am looking forward to a wonderful summer and I hope the campers are too.
Paul Helfgott
Hi, my name is Paul Helfgott. I am a rising sophmore at Annandale High School. I attended Congressional Camp a year ago and was hooked to its interactive and unique programs that most other camps don't offer. I love to play many sports including diving, hockey, and lacrosse. I am also very musically talented. I am looking foward to a great year for the campers and I hope I can help recreate a similar expieriance to mine at Congo Camp.
Steven Holmes
Hi, my name is Steven Holmes. I attended Congressional Camp for many years and have loved going. I just finished my freshman year at James Madison High School where my favorite subject is history. I love to play baseball, basketball, and tennis. I have my black belt in Tae Kwon Do.
Matt Kelley
I graduated from Congressional Schools in 2010 and I will be a sophomore at St. Stephen and St. Agnes High School in the fall. I attended Congressional camp every summer since kindergarten and I’m looking forward to being a CIT this summer. My interests are soccer, track, and studying Spanish.
JJ LaPointe
Hi! My name is JJ LaPointe and I am a Freshman at Bishop O'Connell High School. I enjoy playing sports and hanging out with my friends. My favorite classes in school are History and English. I graduated from CSOV last year and have attended Congressional Camp since 2000. Basketball Camp and Teen Travel were my favorite camps at Congo.
Austin O’Brien
This is my first year working at Congressional as a CIT. Prior to this year, I was a camper for seven years and graduated from Congressional after attending here for six years. I enjoy the outdoors and camping and have been in the scouting program for nine years and am currently a Boy Scout. I have 9 year old twin brothers. I enjoy playing and watching sports such as baseball, basketball, soccer, and cross country/track. My other hobbies include watching movies, hanging out with friends and listening to music. I have just completed my freshman year at Georgetown Preparatory School and am looking forward to working at camp this year.
Mark Perlin
Mark was a camper at Congressional Camp for four summers. He enjoyed his experience so much he decided to return this summer as a CIT. Mark is a rising sophomore at West Springfield High School and is enrolled in honors classes. Mark has worked with children as a teacher’s assistant and tutor. In his free time, he enjoys running, biking and fitness training. He is looking into a career in the U.S. Army.
Coco Torres
This is Coco Torres' 7th year at Congressional Camp. She is very excited to be joining the CIT staff after being a camper for 6 years. Coco currently attends James Madison High School and is starting her sophomore year in the Fall. Last year, she ran on the varsity track team and in her free time she enjoys photography, tap dancing, and playing the guitar and piano.
Lara Angeles
This will be Lara Angeles's first summer at Congressional Camp. Lara has her B.A. in Linguistics and Psychology from UCLA and has been working at Blessed Sacrament School in Alexandria for the last two years in the Early Childhood Center as well as the Extended Day Program. She also has experience working with high school students and college students as both mentor and peer advisor. Her aspirations include obtaining her M.Ed. in Early Childhood Education, working overseas in Asia, and settling down in her hometown of San Diego. Her interests include music, soccer, swimming, traditional Filipino cultural dance, and learning foreign languages.
Amanda Firestone
My name is Amanda, also known as “Mandy”, Firestone. I am 19 years old and a rising sophomore at The Catholic University of America. I am majoring in Social Work and minoring in primary Education. My interests include dance and doing community service with Alpha Phi Omega, the Nation’s official service fraternity. I grew up as a camper and looked forward to going back to Congressional Camp every summer. It was truly the highlight of my childhood and I look forward to making the summer special for all the children I will work with.
Becky May
This will be my 3rd summer working as a Great Adventures counselor at Congressional Camp. I have just finished my junior year at Christopher Newport University, where I am majoring in English, minoring in History and Childhood Studies, and working toward a Masters in Elementary Education.
Kelsey Weber
Kelsey Weber is excited for her first summer at congressional camp. She has worked at conservatory ballet summer camp for a few summers as well as volunteering at her church’s kids camp. Kelsey is a freshman at University of Mary Washington and is planning in majoring in business and education. In her free time she enjoys dancing ballet, reading, and hanging out with friends.
Maddie Butler
Maddie Butler is new to the Congressional team, and is eager to meet the campers as both a Day Camp counselor and a member of the extended hours staff! She graduated last year from Yorktown High School and has just completed her first year at UVa. She hasn't picked a major yet but is leaning towards global development or foreign affairs. In her free time, she loves to travel, read, and bake.
Manuela Kamai
Manuela Kamai began working as an Extended Hours Program Counselor in September 2009. During the 2009-2010 school year, Manuela was one of the main counselors for Senior Kindergarten and occasionally helped out with Preschool and Junior Kindergarten. She is a rising junior at George Mason University with a Major in Integrative Studies and a Concentration in Elementary Education. Aside from working at Congressional Schools of Virginia, Manuela also works at the Patriot Center. Her main passion is hula (Hawaiian) dancing.
Lourdes Lanzas
Hi, my name is Lourdes Lanzas and I am a student-athlete at Marymount University. My major is Education and I play on the Women’s Lacrosse team at MU. Prior to this summer I worked at Tiny Tots daycare for two years and also have been working with children at my church. I have been teaching the children’s choir at my church for 2 years, ages 5-12, and I’m also in the church choir as well (3years). Over the time, I have worked with children and parents and have realized through my experience and others’ opinions that I’m a responsible, trustable, and a creative person. I believe children should always be engaged in doing something whether it’s a hand’s on activity or simply just playing a game outside. Kids shouldn’t miss out on many fun things to do and that’s why I chose to be a part of Congressional Camp.
Kyle Mills
This is Kyle’s first summer at Congressional Camp. He is a Marketing Management Major at Virginia Tech who, in his free time, enjoys mountain biking, illustration and music. Kyle will be involved in the Extended Hours, Digital Art and Outdoor Adventure programs.
Tim Patrick
Tim Patrick is in his first year working at Congressional Camp. He is a graduate of Bishop O’Connell High School in Arlington where he was a member of the National Honor Society and German Honor Society as well as having been involved with the basketball program for two years. He will be attending James Madison University in the fall as a freshman. Tim is very excited to be working in the extended hours program and hopes that it will be a enriching experience as he has had the opportunity to coach basketball at a sixth grade level and since then has felt that working with kids is a fun and fulfilling thing to do. In his free time, Tim enjoys playing sports and hanging out with friends.
Jorge A. Sanchez, Jr.
I have attended Congressional Camp in my early years, from ages 8-10, and still remember all of the wonderful times when I first learned how to swim, ride a horse, and play various sports. I am very excited to be back at Congressional and I strongly believe that my experience, as a volunteer tutor at Tuckahoe Elementary School, will help me one of the best Extended Hours Program Counselors. At Tuckahoe Elementary School, I tutored second graders in all subjects and helped them with their homework assignments. Tutoring at Tuckahoe Elementary School was one of the most rewarding and fun service projects required by my high school. I graduated from Bishop O’Connell High School in 2009 and I have just finished my first year at George Mason University. My major is Accounting and I have a strong passion for computers. My hobbies include bicycling and video games. I also like watching football and soccer; my favorite football team is the Seahawks and I am a big fan of D.C. United. Although I was born in U.S., both of my parents are from El Salvador. Therefore, I can speak and write in Spanish.
Kelly Weirick
This is Kelly’s third summer working here at Congressional Camp. She previously attended in her early years, from ages 3-10, and enjoyed every day of it. She recently graduated in 2009 from JEB Stuart High School in Falls Church, Virginia and is now pursuing a major of Biochemistry at Virginia Tech. She enjoys proudly cheering for the Hokie football team, whether it is in the fan-filled stadium or the comfort of her living room. While at Tech, she attended many of the school-sponsored events, including Relay for Life. Her hobbies include creative writing, tennis, soccer, the outdoors, and a guilty pastime: TV.
Louise Robertson
This will be Louise Robertson’s third year working at Congo Camp and her third year as a counselor for the Summer Adventures Travel Camp, her second year being a counselor for the Science Camp and her second year working in the Extended Hours Program. Louise just finished her third year at James Madison University. She is majoring in Interdisciplinary Liberal Studies with a concentration in Math, Science and Technology and a double minor in Elementary Education and Family Studies. She absolutely loves working with children and cannot wait to begin her career in teaching in the next few years. Prior to the start of camp Louise will be completing a study abroad program in Italy where she will be teaching pre-school students for 5 weeks, this program allows her to combine two of her many passions, traveling and working with children.
Claire Braeuer
This is my second summer working as a Day Camp Counselor at Congressional Camp. Last summer I worked with the Primaries and absolutely loved it. I have just finished my sophomore year at Elon University in North Carolina. I am studying as an Elementary Education major and hope to be a Kindergarten teacher upon graduation. I am looking forward to another great summer at camp!
Laura Simpson
Hi, my name is Laura Simpson and I will be a sophomore in the fall at the University of Delaware (Go Blue Hens!). I am a psychology major with a cognitive science minor. This will be my third year as a counselor at Congressional Camp. I was a Day Counselor, EHP Counselor and this year I will be an Archery Counselor. I play club field hockey at UD and love spending time outdoors hiking and spending time with my friends. I’m looking forward to working with all the Congo Campers!
Abby Eisenberg
Abby Eisenberg is coming back to Congressional Camp for her second summer after graduating this May with her Masters in Art Education. Originally from Richmond, she moved to Northern Virginia to attend George Mason University and major in fine arts. She then stayed at GMU to get her second degree in education. Abby has a passion for teaching and brings a creative and positive energy to the arts and crafts department.
Mary Scully
Mary Scully has been working at Congo Camp for 8 years now. She first began as a Counselor in Training and has held other prositions such as Junior Counselor, Lead Counselor and for the past few years Arts and Crafts Counselor. Mary has recently Graduated from the University of Mary Washington with Bachelor degrees in Mathematics and Psychology. Her interests are photography and traveling. This summer, we're expecting many great projects and activities for Arts and Crafts. Some camp favorites are paper mache projects and tie-dye day and there are many new projects this summer.
Hannah May
My name is Hannah May and I have been riding horses since I was a little kid. I will be a sophomore attending Coastal Carolina University next semester and will be competing on the equestrian team. I have not declared a major yet but hope to do something in Design. I love to be outside and be active. Going to the beach is what I look forward to in summer the most. I can’t wait to start my summer and work at congressional camp.
Brian Beaty
I have never been a camp counselor at Congressional Camp, but I am very excited for this summer! I currently attend Clemson University and will be a Junior in the fall. I am working on a Political Science B.S. with an emphasis on Global Politics. My interests include soccer, fishing, swimming, and reading. I hope to play on the Clemson club soccer team in the fall, and one day become the mayor of my hometown, Alexandria, Virginia.
Peter Foster
Pete Foster is going on his 6th year as a lifeguard, the 3rd being here at good ole' Congo. During the school year, he attends James Madison University and plays club soccer for the Dukes. This past fall, they attended the club national championship in Arizona and won. Other interests include listening to music and eating at Chipotle. Pete is looking forward to an exciting summer and hopes to stay sun burn free!
Emily Scheuer
Last summer I worked behind the front desk of Springhill RecCenter in McLean, VA. This is my first summer as a camp counselor, and I am really looking forward to it. I go to Bishop O'Connell High School in Arlington, VA, and I am a member of the class of 2010 and graduated in June. I will be attending the University of Mary Washington in the fall, and I plan to study Spanish because I would like to become a translator after college and graduate school. I like to play all different sports including softball, soccer, and basketball.
Sarah Voigt
My name is Sarah Voigt and this summer will be my second summer working with Congressional Summer Camp. I grew up in Alexandria, VA with a large extended family. I love to travel and learn about new and interesting cultures. I graduated from Georgetown Visitation Preparatory School and I am going to be a sophomore at High Point University in North Carolina. I plan to minor in Spanish and am considering sociology or psychology as a major. Service and helping the community has always been a big part of my life. I have had to opportunity to be a 1st grade teacher’s assistant for a week on the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota, volunteer with a summer camp for children from low income families, work and live in an orphanage in the small town of Ayacucho in Peru, and help rebuild houses in New Orleans. I really enjoy working with children and can’t wait to be a counselor again this summer!
Heather Wilson (Outdoor Education Director)
This is Heather’s second summer working at Congressional Camp in Outdoor Education. She is passionate about nature and enjoys teaching kids about the environment and the great outdoors. She received her Bachelors degree from Randolph-Macon Woman’s College in Sociology/Anthropology and her Masters Degree in Social Work from George Mason University. Heather has spent every summer of her graduate and undergraduate years working at summer camps. Outside of camp she enjoys hiking, camping, biking, and is an avid recycler.
Dylan Alles
My name is Dylan Alles. I have lived all over the world, and I graduated from Congressional in 2008. I enjoy running, rock climbing, playing sports and being outdoors, and I am really excited to be a part of Congo Camp for the first time!
Wade Lippard
Wade Lippard has spent many of his childhood summers as a camper at various summer camps. Throughout high school, he worked at a family-oriented music store and has taught guitar. Finishing up his first year at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, he hopes to double major in Economics and Philosophy; eventually he plans on attending law school. In his free time, Wade likes to play sports like soccer and rugby. In addition, he enjoys playing the guitar, piano, and learning as much as he can about music.
Madison Singer-Riske
Madison is a lifetime resident of Fairfax County who attended Lake Braddock Secondary School where he was Co-Captain of the Varsity Cross-Country team. He is currently a student at Virginia Tech pursing a degree in International Studies. Madison is president of one of Virginia Tech’s outdoor clubs. He loves to hike, bike, kayak, and play Frisbee Golf. Madison recently climbed Mt. Mitchell in North Carolina and Mt. LeConte in Tennessee.
John Duffy (Sports Director)
This will be John Duffy’s second summer working as Sports Director at Congressional Camp. John oversees all of the day camp’s daily sports and physical activities and is assisted by a passionate staff that interacts and teaches campers sports skills. Prior to working at Congressional Camp, John graduated from Radford University in 2000 with a BBA in Marketing and worked with professional associations in Alexandria. In 2007, John decided to fulfill a lifelong dream of teaching youth and went back to school in order to become a certified teacher in Physical Education. John completed his teacher’s certification program in Health and PE at Towson University in December 2009 and is now a Physical Education teacher in Alexandria City Public Schools. Outside of camp, John enjoys spending time with his wife and 2-year old daughter Emma, coaching youth baseball, running and working out, and watching or participating in all sports.
Jennifer Blaisdell
Jennifer is excited to be joining the staff at Congressional Camp for the first time this year. After receiving a Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Ethics and Policy from Green Mountain College, she spent two years teaching at an outdoor environmental education program all over New England before deciding to return to school. Jennifer completed her Master’s degree in Elementary Education with a concentration in Science and Environmental Education at Antioch New England Graduate School in 2005. She has taught at both the elementary and preschool level and especially loves messy, hands-on projects and looking for amphibians in their natural habitats.
Derek Bowley
Congo Chefs Counselor / Big Apple Adventure Counselor
Derek Bowley has been a Congo Chefs Counselor since 2007 when the only offering was Just Desserts – a one week dessert camp. He helped expand the cooking offerings to include two-week programs, international cooking, Congo Chefs Challenge and Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. Though he has no professional cooking training, he is an avid home cook and lover of food. During the school year, Derek teaches Speech and Drama to the Middle School students at Congressional and directs the school musical.
Sarah Philip
Sarah Philip, CSOV Art Teacher and Lead Counselor for Beading, Arts and Crafts, and Clay specialty camps.
This is Sarah’s fourth summer at Congo camp and her ninth year as an art teacher. This year she was the recipient of the Northern Virginia Elementary Art Educator of the Year award from the Virginia Art Education Association. An avid day and overnight camper as a child, Sarah remembers fondly the Arts and Crafts shack and all of the fun to be found inside.