meet the staff
We know that a great camp experience starts with caring, mature staff members, and our staff is made up of adults who are committed to providing guidance, encouragement and an unforgettable summer of fun. At Go West we hire the cream of the crop. Our staff members go through a rigorous hiring process and are selected based on their experience, knowledge and skills in specific camp activity areas, and their ability to create positive relationships with campers and fellow staff members. Every individual contributes to the spirit and culture of camp, and we highly value including counselors from diverse backgrounds and experiences.
Preparation is everything. All of our staff members complete a thorough training before summer begins, continually attend in-service trainings and are evaluated throughout the summer. Our series of trainings includes, at a minimum, First Aid, CPR and certifications in specific program activities. Staff members also go through state and federal criminal background checks. To ensure the safety of our campers, Go West maintains a 1:6 staff to camper ratio. Additionally, each activity is supervised by staff members with previous experience leading that activity.
2025 STAFF
ANDREW VANDERWEGE
OWNER & DIRECTOR
Andrew lives and breathes summer camp. As a toddler he grew up with Camp Director parents, was a camper and then moved on to work at several day and resident camps. His very favorite thing about camp is trying new things and meeting new people. He enjoys biking, board games and adding to his crazy sock collection.
ARIANNE VANDERWEGE
OWNER & DIRECTOR
With more than 20 years working with youth in school, after school, resident and day camp settings, Arianne most enjoys getting to know campers and families and being of support to our amazing staff. Favorite camp activities include creating art and growing veggies in the garden. Arianne also plays ukulele, practices yoga, loves cooking delicious food and enjoys discovering Colorado’s hiking trails with her 11 year old daughter, Maile.
KAYLIN LARKIN
SENIOR DIRECTOR
Kaylin (she/her) has been at Go West from the beginning. She has worked in every role and has loved watching campers grow throughout the years. Kaylin received a Bachelor’s in Psychology from the University of Colorado and Go West has allowed her to merge her passion for working with youth and her love for the outdoors.
KAITEL BURCH, BSN, RN CAMP NURSE SUPERVISOR
When Kaitel isn’t working in emergency department, she’s working with the staff at Go West to ensure a safe and healthy summer for all. This is Kaitel’s seventh year on the Go West Team. As a former Unit Director at camp, and having received her BSN from the University of Colorado, the camp nurse role has been a natural fit. Kaitel brings an infectiously positive attitude, camp knowledge and spirit of teamwork. Kaitel currently resides in Boise, Idaho with her husband and two handsome toddler boys.
SHANNON LARKIN
LOGISTICS COORDINATOR
Shannon has been with Go West Camps since 2021 working behind the scenes. She runs the backside of camp making sure everything is ready to go when summer rolls around. With her passion for fashion, you’ll most likely spot her running around during summer wearing some funky outfits!
DAYNA WAHL
SITE DIRECTOR
Dayna attends Western Colorado University in Gunnison. She is currently majoring in Psychology with an emphasis in Secondary Education and minoring in Sociology. Dayna has been swimming for around 14 years and is currently part of the Western Colorado swim team. Dayna is the youngest of five kids so everyday growing up was a new adventure. In her free time she likes to hike, rock climb, and discover new TV shows and movies. In the future, Dayna hopes to become a high school Social Studies teacher and teach Psychology, History, and Sociology. Working with kids has always been something that makes her happy and always manages to put a smile on her face.
GRACE KIMES
UNIT LEADER
Grace grew up in Colorado Springs and she loves to spend time outside running, hiking, and paddle boarding. When she’s not outside, you’ll catch her teaching elementary school and traveling the globe. She’s so excited for what this summer has in store!
MYCAH QUEVILLION UNIT LEADER
Mycah was born and raised in the Colorado Springs area. She is currently a college student studying Psychology and Classical Studies in Pennsylvania. In the summer, Mycah loves to hike, swim, and to be surrounded by the Colorado wildlife. When inside, she likes to read, paint, and oftentimes do anything theater related. Mycah loves everything about Colorado and is excited to share it with others this summer.
DWIGHT GRANT
MOUNTAIN BIKE DIRECTOR
Dwight has a passion for outdoor adventure and family. He and his wife have been married for almost 40 years and have 3 adult children and 6 grandkids. Dwight started mountain biking in the mid-80s and loves sharing his love of riding with others.
DEVIN BUSH ROCK CLIMBING SPECIALIST
Devin was raised in a small ski town in Western Colorado where he discovered a love for all things outdoors. While rock climbing is his passion, he enjoys backpacking, biking, snowboarding, and of course, camping in the backcountry. He will attend the University of Utah in the fall through their Naval ROTC program, majoring in architecture and climbing competitively or outdoors as much as possible. He is stoked to share his enthusiasm for rock climbing with the GoWest community this summer.
HAILEY ETTINGER FARM STAFF
Hailey (she/her) was born and raised near beautiful and sunny Boulder, Colorado. She studied elementary education and community leadership studies at CU Boulder and is in yoga teacher training at Studio Satya in Colorado Springs. Hailey is a public school teacher and has worked with all ages of youth. Her passion is ignited when sharing the joy and healing powers of nature. She also enjoys coffee, chocolate, herbalism, crafting, and tabletop games!
SILVANA BOLAOS COUNSELOR
Silvana is from Colombia and is currently a student of Foreign Languages. She’s excited to be part of Go West Camps this summer. Passionate about teaching, outdoor adventures, and traveling, she enjoys hiking, biking, dancing, gymnastics, and loves coffee. She looks forward to making amazing memories and new friends this summer!
KAI MORRIS COUNSELOR
Kai Morris is a 20-year-old criminal justice student with a passion for justice and creativity. When not studying, he enjoys baking sweet treats, tending to his garden, and spending time with his flame point cat. Kai blends curiosity, care, and ambition in everything he does—both in class and at home.
CHARLOTTE VANDERWEGE COUNSELOR
My name is Charlotte! I'm currently studying elementary education at University of Colorado Colorado Springs. I work mostly with the youngest group (trailblazers) and love to help them learn how to participate in new activities and grow independence in their learning. I'm excited to work with your kids this summer!
KRISTEN CHASE COUNSELOR
Howdy! My name is Kristen and I'm a Molecular Biology student at Colorado State University with the intent to become a genetic counselor. I've been playing the clarinet for 9 years and I enjoy making latch-hook rugs. I've lived in Colorado my whole life and I'm excited for my first year as a counselor at Go West Camps!
XIAOFANG LIU COUNSELOR
Xiaofang, a native of China, is a passionate educator and adventurous spirit. Inspired by her profound love for foreign cultures, she chose to major in English. In her leisure time, she has a deep - seated passion for hiking and solo traveling. Xiaofang firmly believes that her rich experiences in teaching, and traveling uniquely position her to create an exceptional experience for campers. She eagerly anticipates sharing her travel tales and instilling a sense of exploration among them. Moreover, she is fully confident in her capacity to contribute positively and meaningfully to the camp community.
KATELYNN ABERNATHY COUNSELOR
I’m passionate about working with kids and I have experience in most of the usual Colorado activities. I was born and raised here in Colorado and grew up mountain climbing, long boarding, swimming, and playing lacrosse! I also enjoy traveling and anything creative or artistic. When I’m not outside I like to paint and listen to music. I’m looking forward to having a great summer!
JESSICA POWERS
SENIOR PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Jessica spent her childhood in summer camps. In college Jessica studied art and then traveled the country working on farms before settling in Colorado. She is back for her fifth year at Go West as a year round Program Director for our Eagleview location.
CHRIS IONESCU-COBB SITE DIRECTOR
Chris is an avid educator and pickleball player. He obtained his B.S. in Mathematics from Western Colorado University. When he's not out spending time with his dog, he's usually immersing himself in tabletop games.
ZOE SHERMAN UNIT LEADER
A born and raised Philadelphian always searching for adventure, Zoë (she/her) is ecstatic to spend her summer in Colorado! She loves forming new relationships, traveling (especially solo), live music, and pretty much all things creative. Now entering her junior year at Temple University, she's studying community education (AKA the world of educational programs, higher education, community centers, nonprofits, etc). Zoë has led a Jewish religious school classroom focusing on Jewish civic values and ethics for the past four years and has experience as an assistant unit leader, camp counselor, and a long-time camper. She is so ready to meet everyone and be a part of the Go West community!
MAX SCHULTZ UNIT LEADER
I have grown up in Colorado Springs and is currently working towards a masters in Mechanical Engineering in Boulder. My favorite ways to spend time in the outdoors are mountain biking, climbing, hiking, and nature photography. I am super excited for this summer!
IAN HUNT MOUNTAIN BIKE SPECIALIST
I really enjoy riding my bike, and being outside all the time. Also, I enjoy trail running and I do ultra marathons. I believe that every child should get the opportunity to spend as much time outside, for that is where we learn the best.
GRACE PFANSTIEL ROCK CLIMBING SPECIALIST
Howdy y’all! I’m Grace, originally from Kansas City, Kansas, and a recent graduate with a degree in Psychology from Baylor University in Waco, Texas. I’m passionate about all things outdoors! Rock climbing, hiking, sailing, paddle boarding, and triathlons are some of my favorite adventures. Each time I visit Colorado, I fall more in love with its beauty and spirit, and I’m thrilled to share that passion with the kids at camp this summer. I can’t wait to help them discover the joy of nature and outdoor activities!
In the future, I plan to teach English abroad across Asia and Europe, continuing my love for learning and cultural exchange. When I’m not outside, you’ll find me reading, journaling, crocheting, doing yoga, or country dancing. I’m so excited for this summer and the chance to inspire a new generation of outdoor explorers!
JESSICA FERNANDES FARM STAFF
Hi everyone! My name is Jessica Fernandes. I was born and raised in Boston, Massachusetts, and just made the big move to Colorado Springs with my family. I love traveling, meeting new people, and chasing adventure wherever it takes me. I’m also a huge animal lover and you’ll probably find me talking about my favorite creatures any chance I get! I can’t wait to make amazing memories, try new things, and have the best summer ever.
ALLI VANDERHEIDE COUNSELOR
Hey everyone! My name is Alli and this is my first year at Go West Camps. I grew up in Grand Rapids, Michigan, but I go to school in Indiana. I am heading into my junior year at Taylor University where I study social studies education with a concentration in special education! I am so excited to spend the summer in Colorado. I love volleyball, coffee, and trying new things! I can't wait to meet you all!
JOEL COLON MORENO COUNSELOR
Born and raised in the gorgeous island of Puerto Rico, Joel was raised with a deep love for nature that only grew over the years. They infuse this love into all that they do, from writing to running TTRPG games professionally. This love is especially strong for the tiny organisms that live in nature, and Joel is always happy to impart careful, thoughtful insight on all the insects they encounter.
HANNAH SCHWEIGER COUNSELOR
Hi! My name is Hannah! I've lived in Colorado Springs since I was 12 and absolutely love nature and the outdoors. I start my undergrad in the fall at CU Denver as a Film major. In my free time I love baking, arts and crafts, and volunteering in the community. I love working with kids and absolutely can't wait to be a counselor this summer!
ASHA MAYOTT COUNSELOR
Hi, my name is Asha. I was born in India but have lived in Colorado Springs since I was two years old. I love to spend time outdoors camping, hiking, and playing softball! I also love DIY projects. I am currently studying Human Physiology and Nutrition at University of Colorado, Colorado Springs. My lifelong goal is to work in the medical field helping kids!
YUCHEN “KRILLA” YANG COUNSELOR
Krilla is a passionate and courageous Chinese artist. I am good at handicrafts, swimming and drama performance. I major in International Education and Linguistics. My dream is to become an international teacher and I firmly believe that every child is the best. I can't wait to meet you all in summer!
ANGEL TROGI
FARM PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Angel (he/ they) started at Go West Camps in 2021 as a summer camp counselor. Currently, Angel is a year round Farm Program Director of the endlessly evolving Go West Farm, home to two hundred chickens, goats, ducks, barn cats and all sorts of garden plants. Born in Illinois, he has always had an immense passion for animals, farming, tattooing, painting, digital art, LGBTQ+ diversity and a strong desire to create safe creative space. That desire soon cultivated numerous outlets for expansion arriving in Colorado, specifically at Go West.
MELISSA LEIDER SITE DIRECTOR
Mel is excited to spend her first summer at Go West Camps, bringing a lifelong love of camp with her. She grew up as a camper, counselor, and administrator at a camp in Virginia, where she particularly loved leading camp songs, creating fun relay races, and enjoying the magic of rainy days filled with board games and fairy houses. Mel has been a teacher in D20, D11, and D49 and double majored in English Education and Music at James Madison University, still playing saxophone when she can. Outside of teaching and camp, Mel is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu coach and competitor, and loves hiking with her mini poodle Ruby. She’s happiest when she’s outside—especially when there’s a hammock involved. Mel is excited to dive into a new camp community this summer and help create meaningful, joyful experiences for campers and staff alike.
ANDREW WELSH UNIT LEADER
Andrew grew up in Colorado Springs and has spent every summer hiking and camping. He is currently studying mechanical engineering at UCCS. In his free time, Andrew enjoys being outdoors with his friends. He is excited to start a new adventure with Go West Camps.
SAMANTHA CHAMBERS UNIT LEADER
Sam grew up loving hiking and spending time outdoors with her family. Now, she's a first-year nursing student at the University of Virginia and still enjoys hiking every chance she can get! She's so excited for her first year with Go West!
JOSHUA PHILLIPS ROCK CLIMBING SPECIALIST
Josh was born and raised in Colorado Springs. He loves all things outdoors like hiking, biking, skiing, and of course rock climbing. He is working on getting a degree in financial planning from Nebraska Wesleyan University. He is super excited about what adventures the summer has in store.
RYAN LEARY EXCURSIONS STAFF
JESSE ALI COUNSELOR / OST LEADER
Jesse (he/him) grew up in Las Vegas, Nevada and traded the desert for the beautiful snowy mountains of Colorado. He is passionate about fitness and functional movement, LGBTQ+ diversity, and creative writing. He is currently studying to be a chiropractor and is pursuing a bachelor’s in kinesiology. In his free time, he enjoys playing baseball, axe and knife throwing, rock climbing, and long walks with his senior dog, Cirilla.
MAYA BRADLEY COUNSELOR
Maya can't wait to meet this summer's campers! Originally from New Jersey, lots of their time growing up was spent outdoors, hiking, camping, and kayaking! With a love of nature and all things creative, from cooking to music, Maya can't wait to share these passions with campers.
AUTUMN LARGENT COUNSELOR
Hello! I’m Autumn. I'm currently a student at the University of Tulsa but reside in Colorado with family. I'm currently an Environmental Policy major and am very passionate about the outdoors and plants. I’m very excited to work as a camp counselor and can't wait share an amazing summer with everyone!
KADEE ELROD COUNSELOR
Even though she is new, Kadee is excited to be a part of the Go West team. She has lived in Colorado her whole life, it's her favorite place to be. Her passion is in helping and teaching others, in order to help pursue her dreams she wants to work more with the kids in her community. Currently she is majoring in English Education in hopes of becoming a teacher. On her downtime she loves reading, cooking, baking, and spending time with her loved ones. She is very excited to see what the summer has in store!
HALEIGH VOTH COUNSELOR
My name is Haleigh and this will be my first year at Go West. During the school year I work as a special education social worker at a Kindergarten-8th grade public school in Colorado Springs, where I have been for 3 years. I have my undergrad and graduate degree in social work and I have worked as a social worker in many different capacities for 5 1/2 years. In my spare time I’m usually drawing or hiking. I love working with and sharing fun experiences with kids, and teaching them new things whether it be fun activities or life skills. I’m excited to be able to work with kids outside of a school setting and in the outdoors.
JESS SHELTON COUNSELOR
Hey y'all, I'm Jess! This is my first year being a counselor at Go West Camps. I grew up in Colorado Springs and spent my summers hiking, camping, paddleboarding, and enjoying the great outdoors that our state has to offer. I've been a snowboarder since I was 8 years old, and I still spend my winter weekends in the mountains snowboarding when I have the time! I am currently a rising senior at the University of Colorado Denver, and I'm double-majoring in Psychology and Communications, and I love doing photography and writing in my free time!
ROBYN ZIEMBA PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Robyn is an adventurer and food enthusiast! If it looks climbable she will climb it and if it looks edible she will eat it. Originally from the swamps of Louisiana, she has made her journey west to the mountains to find more rocks to climb. She can’t wait for the opportunity to teach campers to ascend to the top of the most inspiring obstacles ever to emerge from the ground.
XAVIER LANDRUM ASSISTANT SITE DIRECTOR
Xavier is an individual devoted to helping out youth whether it’s teaching, coaching, or working at camp. He has been with Go West Camps since 2019 and has been a huge help in the growth and development of Go West Camps. He graduated college with a Bachelors of Science in Sports Fitness/Management from Cameron University in Oklahoma. Upon moving, Xavier has really grown to enjoy the outdoors and traveling throughout Colorado since being here for about 11 years in. He is always ready for the next adventure and says there is no other state like Colorado. Activities he enjoys are playing basketball, football, hiking, fishing, exploring around Colorado, and gaming when he can. He is excited for what’s in store for this summer at Go West!
CALEB DALL UNIT LEADER
Caleb has lived in Colorado Springs his whole life. He is currently studying mechanical engineering at Colorado State University. He loves to do anything outdoors whenever he can. He is thrilled to be a part of Go West Camps this summer and enjoy the outdoors with the staff and campers.
ALLIE LEISHER UNIT LEADER
I’m Allie, I was born and raised in Colorado Springs and actually attended Go West Camps! I am currently studying Social Work, Psychology, and Gender Studies at Buena Vista University. I have always loved the outdoors, being on the water, and working with children. I'm so excited to be back this summer!!
JOSHUA WEBB ROCK CLIMBING SPECIALIST
I was born and raised behind the curtain of the East Texas piney woods. I love all things related to nature like hiking, biking, snowboarding, and have an extra interest in rock climbing. I am enrolled as a chemistry major with a concentration on environmental science at East Texas A&M University. I cannot wait to see all the wonderful adventures this summer has in store.
SAGE SHARP FARM STAFF / OST LEADER
Howdy! I’m Farmer Sage, one of the leaders here with Go West Camps. I get my nickname from working on the camp farm this summer. I love all things to do with animals, art and you’ll usually find me instructing culinary, art, farm & garden and drama. Can’t wait to see you there!
LARRY HANSEN BUS DRIVER
Larry has lived in Colorado Springs basically his whole life. He moved here when he was one. With all the beauty and wonder that Colorado has to offer. It's no surprise that he enjoys the outdoors so much. This will be his first season with Go West. He's looking forward to having lots of new adventures and making some friends.
STEPHANIE MARTINEZ BUS DRIVER
I'm Steph, I was born and raised in Texas and have been living in Colorado for 9 years. I'm a bus driver for a school district. I have three children and two grandchildren. I have a love for driving and the outdoors. Both keep me ready for every journey, whether on the road or in nature.
SOPHIA VALENTINE COUNSELOR
Sophia grew up in Colorado Springs, where she developed a deep love for the outdoors. She enjoys skiing, climbing, and taking on every classic Colorado adventure. She is currently a student at Creighton University, where she competes in cross country and track. When she’s not on the trails or in class, she’s likely planning her next outdoor adventure.
CAMILLA CHAVES COUNSELOR
Camila Chaves is a Colombian student currently in her fourth year of university, where she is studying languages. Passionate about the outdoors since childhood, Camila has explored the magnificent landscapes of her country. In addition to her love for nature, she has interests in art, swimming and dance. Camila is embarking on a new adventure by joining the Go West Camps team for the first time. She is excited about the opportunity to meet the staff and campers, eager to share her positive energy and love for learning with everyone. With her adventurous spirit and desire to explore new horizons, Camila is ready to make this summer at Go West Camps an unforgettable experience for all involved. Get ready to experience exciting moments and create lasting memories with Camila at Go West Camps!
KEAGHAN SHORT COUNSELOR
Hey everyone ! I grew up as an active member of the Girl Scouts of Colorado where I grew a passion for helping kids and camping. I am currently studying Pre-Med Biology with a focus on Forensic Science at UCCS and hope to go into the medical field one day. I'm very excited to get to know everyone and help your kids learn more about the outdoors!
MAI MILLER COUNSELOR
My name is Mai. I was born and raised in Colorado Springs. I am currently studying social work and music at UCCS. My free time is filled with music festivities, connecting with others at school club events, and making memories with my family and friends. I absolutely love trying new and exciting things such as skydiving. I am so excited to have the opportunity to be a part of the team and even more excited to meet everybody!
EMYLEE BOGART COUNSELOR
Emylee Bogart has travelled to over 13 countries for work or Christian mission trips. She is a portrait and fashion photographer. Emylee wants people to feel special and worthy through her photography.