Interim Executive Director

Jane’s connection to Sagamore spans more than 17 years, beginning as a historic interpreter and growing into a dedicated member, volunteer, and program participant. She joined the Board of Trustees in 2024 and co-chaired the 2026–2031 Strategic Plan committee. To Jane, Sagamore is a place for renewal, self-awareness, community, and lasting friendship. 

Jane brings over 20 years of experience in long-range planning, environmental stewardship, and organizational strategy. Her work centers on executive leadership and building strong, accountable teams. She believes collaboration is the key ingredient to long-term success.

Jane holds degrees from Syracuse University, the University of Virginia, SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, and the Maxwell School at Syracuse University. 

Outside of Sagamore, she serves as Deputy Director of The Wetland Trust and enjoys reading, gardening, and spending time with her husband, John, their two chihuahuas Pinto and Coffee Bean, and family.

Interim Deputy Director

Leslie first joined Great Camp Sagamore as an Historical Interpreter in 2023 to build on her love of both history and the Adirondacks with an interesting “post-retirement” job. Having over 35 years of experience as a marketing and management executive, her role expanded and evolved to include the creation of the Sagamore’s marketing function, co-chairing the Strategic Plan Committee, and serving in a “special projects” capacity guiding and supporting initiatives across the organization.  

Leslie’s business experience includes senior roles in general management, marketing, strategic planning, organization design & development, and operations management.

When not at Sagamore Leslie enjoys kayaking, hiking, playing tennis, as well as inviting family and friends to experience, the beauty of the Adirondacks.

Staff Historian

Tangentially, Connor’s connections to Sagamore go back to its start; he is of distant relation to Sagamore’s architect and first owner William West Durant. Far more importantly, stewarding Sagamore by helping visitors find enduring human experiences within the complexity of its multilayered past represents all those aspects of history Connor finds most compelling. A formally trained historian with years of teaching and public history experience including service to the United States Congress, Connor is forever excited to share Sagamore’s evolving stories to an ever-expanding group of visitors, members, patrons, and friends.

Sr. Director, Programs & Operations

Like many "Woods Women" before her, Cari was first initially drawn to the Adirondacks through the life and writings of Anne LaBastille more than 20 years ago. She first came to Great Camp Sagamore to facilitate Sagamore’s annual fly fishing retreat. Coming from the lush green hill country of Southern Indiana, she felt an immediate sense of "home" in the Adirondack Forest. A bit of a renaissance woman, Cari brings a wealth of experience to her role, including expertise as a creative marketing professional, successful entrepreneur, touring singer-songwriter, and professional fly fishing guide and internationally certified casting instructor. When she's not brainstorming, planning, or hosting one of our many program offerings, you might find her playing guitar, exploring the wilderness, paddling the lake, or fly fishing along one of the beautiful stretches of water that surround Sagamore.

Sr. Director, Facilities & Caretaking

Ted Riehle joined the Great Camp Sagamore staff in 2018, but has been living in the area for a long time. He manages the historic buildings and grounds to make sure they stay attractive and functional. Ted loves the Adirondack Park and local history, so Great Camp Sagamore is a perfect fit for him. 

Finance & Office Manager

Prior to joining Great Camp Sagamore, Kathy was the legal assistant and office manager for a local law office and, for the last 10 years, managed their bookkeeping and payroll. Kathy has been active in local and regional nonprofits for 30 years, serving as president, secretary, recording secretary, and treasurer. Kathy was born and raised in Paul Smiths, New York, graduated from Saranac Lake High School and SUNY Canton, and now resides in Old Forge.

Executive Chef

Sydney is a young dynamic chef with a deep passion for the culinary arts. Known for her creativity and innovation in the kitchen, she excels at crafting unique and flavorful recipes that delight the senses. 

Outside the kitchen, Sydney enjoys kayaking and spending time outdoors, as well as finding inspiration in nature’s beauty. Her dedication to both her career and her personal interests make Sydney a well rounded and inspiring figure in the culinary world.

Operations Manager

Drawn to Sagamore by his passion for history, fondness of the Adirondacks, and the unique experience that camp offers to both guests and staff, Jason initially joined Sagamore as the seasonal Store Manager. Over the course of the season, Jason loved connecting with fellow staff members, embracing the beauty of the Adirondacks, and meeting visitors who, like him, had been touched by Great Camp Sagamore’s magic.

Jason was welcomed into a year-round position as Operations Manager where he focuses on delivering high-quality guest services, improving organizational efficiency, and managing the technologies used in operations.

Outside of work, Jason cherishes spending time with friends and family, as well as pursuing his interests in musical theater, singing, reading, and cooking.

Donor Relations Manager

Samantha has always been drawn to the nonprofit world. Growing up, she volunteered with her family’s nonprofit, and helping others quickly became the guiding theme of her life. At 18, she joined the FEMA Corps and traveled across the country, supporting communities in times of need and connecting with people from all walks of life. Some of her most meaningful experiences came from small but profound moments—like helping someone read an important document for the first time—reminders of the impact one person can have.

Since joining Great Camp Sagamore, Samantha has cherished being part of a welcoming and supportive community, where she can continue to make a positive difference. Originally from Blue Island, just south of Chicago, she is also a passionate photographer. She especially enjoys capturing the beauty of nature and often joins her sister as a second shooter at weddings.

History Manager

Program Manager

Kim joined Great Camp Sagamore because its mission—to share the outdoors and its history—speaks to her heart. She has spent her career helping people connect to nature and culture through outdoor education, most recently serving 11 years with Texas Parks and Wildlife in roles ranging from Outdoor Education Diversity Specialist to Boater Education Manager.

Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, Kim has always felt most at home in the mountains. Some of her most meaningful memories come from camping under the stars, paddling wild rivers, or casting a fly on quiet waters. A passionate outdoorswoman and educator, she brings that same joy and curiosity to Sagamore, where she loves inspiring others to discover adventure, history, and a deeper connection to the Adirondacks.