Leadership

Be the Best Newbie: Top Tips for New Camp Directors

Speaker: Matt Wilfred

Thursday, November 27

7-8:30 p.m.

Free for SCA Members, and $35 for non-members.

Virtual (pre-register below)

Stepping into a new leadership role at a camp comes with excitement and challenges. The staff may be skeptical as you take the reins at a place they cherish. How do you earn their trust and lead effectively? Drawing on experiences as “the new guy” at multiple organizations, this session provides practical strategies for navigating your first year. We’ll explore how to connect with key people, understand the camp’s culture, and implement positive change.

 

Topics Covered:

• Understanding Staff Perspectives: Addressing the skepticism and concerns of staff regarding new leadership.
• Connecting with Key People: Identifying and building relationships with staff, alumni, volunteers, and other stakeholders.
• Navigating Camp Culture: Learning the importance of camp policies, procedures, traditions, and language.
• Implementing Change: Strategies for assessing the need for change, communicating effectively, and fostering a positive environment for growth.
• Personal Leadership: Maintaining well-being, building support networks, and embracing a servant leadership approach.

Key Takeaways:

• A framework for approaching the first day, week, month, summer, and three years in a new leadership role.
• Practical tips for building and maintaining trust with staff, boards, and the camp community.
• Strategies for understanding and positively influencing camp culture.
• Tools for self-care and building support systems to thrive in a new environment.

About the speaker:

Matt Wilfrid is a passionate advocate for the power of summer camp. As Executive Director of the Canadian Camping Association and Consultant with Go Camp Pro, he supports staff and leaders across 130+ countries through innovative programming, podcasts, and tools that foster inclusive, impactful camp experiences.