Staff Profiles
Jacob Rodenburg, Executive Director
Jacob has taught in the field of Outdoor Education for more than 20 years. He is currently the Executive Director of Camp Kawartha, a summer camp and outdoor education centre. In 2010, Jacob received the Award for Leadership in Environmental Education by the Ontario Society of Environmental Educators, offered annually to one or more persons who have demonstrated outstanding leadership in Environmental Education for at least five years. In 2007, he was awarded the Richards Education Award for excellence in Natural History Education from Ontario Nature. He teaches several courses at Trent University in education and environmental education. Jacob graduated from Trent University with a joint major in environmental studies and geography. He holds a teacher’s certificate and a Master’s in Education. He has published a number of articles on children, nature and the environment. Jacob recently spearheaded the construction of one of Canada’s most sustainable buildings at Trent University. This unique environment centre will teach children and future teachers about sustainable living practices, alternative energy and conservation.
Neil Fortin, Outdoor Education Manager
As the head of Outdoor Education, Neil has had 10 years experience in the field of Outdoor Education. He is a graduate of McMaster University and holds a diploma in Forest Recreation from Sir Sandford Fleming College. From his work at Camp Tawingo, Presqu'ile Provincial Park and Pococno Environmental Education Centre and other facilities, he is known as a remarkable story teller with a wealth of natural history knowledge. He has a back pocket full of games and activities that he draws on constantly. Kids love is dynamic teaching style and his enthusiasm.
Sherri Owen, Education Co-ordinator, Environment Centre
Sherri is a certified teacher with over 4 years experience in outdoor education and more than six years experience as a senior summer camp staff member and summer camp director. With a wealth of experience in traditional skills, science and art, Sherri is a creative and energetic teacher who specializes in traditional skills. A talented artist in her own right, Sherri holds degrees in fine art and a diploma as an arborist.
Craig Brant, Project Manager, Environment Centre
Craig has degrees in Arts and Environmental Education, 10 years of experience in the field of outdoor/environmental education and a strong foundation in the world of summer camps. He is a naturalist working towards what he calls “a black belt in nature”! Craig loves sharing the beauty, freedom and the adventure he finds in the outdoors with people of all ages – especially youth. As the Project Manager for the new Camp Kawartha Environment Centre and as an Outdoor Educator for Camp Kawartha, Craig is working to create positive ties between the community, the people, and the natural world.Leigh-Ann Bell
Hello! I am so excited to be working as an Outdoor Educator this year at Camp Kawartha! I have worked with the Day Camp on site as part of the Summer Camp for the past 4 summers, and am looking forward to expanding my experiences in the realm of outdoor education! I love being outside in all seasons, so this is the best job I could ask for! I am a qualified teacher, and I share my time between Camp Kawartha and the Durham District School Board as a supply teacher. I love to share my knowledge of nature with people of all ages and love learning new things about the natural world everyday!
Glen Caradus
As one local educator put it “Glen is oozing with talent.” As a remarkable musician, puppeteer and storyteller, Glen always makes learning creative and enjoyable for student of all ages. As a member of a local well known group “Fresh Water Trade” and the founder of the “Paddling Puppeteers”, Glen has a fine singing voice an amazing repertoire of songs and stories that he is happy to share at any time.
Sheila Potter
Sheila has always been happier outside than in. After getting her BSc from the University of Guelph, she worked as a research biologist before getting her teacher certification in science and technology education. In over a decade of teaching, Sheila has worked as a nature interpreter, as the laboratory coordinator of a 4th year zoology course at the University of Guelph and as lead instructor of in-service and pre-service teachers in Acadia University's Institute for Teaching and Technology. Sheila also draws on her experience as a graphic designer to inject creativity into all of her teaching.
Dave Stone
Dave started his education career as a wilderness canoe guide, traveling and teaching groups around the classic canoe routes of Ontario and Quebec. During this time he managed to acquire a Bachelor of Fine Arts at York University in Film/Video production. Education kept calling and Dave was lured back into the field when he finished his Teaching Adults Certificate at Seneca College. Dave taught computers, job search skills, cooking, and led nature hikes in the Peterborough Area. Dave eventually realized he loved teaching and after working with kids in the outdoors at Camp Kawartha, he acquired his Bachelor of Education from Trent University. He looks forward to working with your school exploring the wonders of outdoor education.
Amanda Kennedy
