DJ

Operations manager – staffing

DJ is from Tulsa, OK, but now calls western North Carolina home. Prior to joining the Adventure Treks team, DJ was a program lead at the Boys and Girls Club of Henderson County. Before that, he was with the Pali Institute in southern California for several years. He was the staff director for Pali’s summer camp program, and he was also a program coordinator for spring and fall seasons, handling the outdoor education center’s logistics for 600+ students per week. DJ has extensive experience in the summer camp industry, having also worked as a counselor for YMCA Camp Twin Lakes and as an outdoor education instructor for the Outdoor School, both in Texas.

Favorite hobbies

Movies! I love watching movies and try to watch as many new releases as I can. I also love all things WWE; I watch weekly and have been keeping up since I was a kid. I also enjoy word searches and always try to keep a book of them with me.

Favorite outdoor achievement

Getting snowed in at camp over a weekend with kids. It was very difficult to make sure we all stayed calm during those days, but in the end we were all sad to see each other go.

Favorite outdoor memory

My favorite outdoor memory so far is getting to see the Pacific Ocean for the first time in 2023, and watching the sunset.

Favorite place in the world

Austin, TX: It’s where I first experienced summer camp and developed a love for the camp and outdoor industry. I also really love Lake Arrowhead, CA. It’s beautiful during the winter, and in the summer, there is a cover band concert series by the lake.

What are you most looking forward to this summer?

I am looking forward to having great new experiences with people who love the outdoors!

DariaSonja