Len Masengale, Camping Services Executive

Camping has been a big part of my life since early childhood. The most important memories I have from boyhood are of the camping trips I went on with my father and now lifelong friends. My goal is to make sure camp is a safe and fun place to be. If campers feel safe, then they are free to form those lifelong friendships and cement the core values into their character. I have dedicated this part of my life to ensure campers have that opportunity.

Bradley Smith, Associate Executive Director

bradley.smith@ymcahouston.org

I was born and raised in North Carolina, where I grew up attending YMCA Camp Hanes. After graduating college, I went to work full-time with Camp Hanes and have been a YMCA camp director ever since!

Favorite Camp Memory: As a teenage camper, I went on my first wilderness backpacking trip on the Appalachian Trail and met a friend who quickly became one of my best friends. As a result of our experiences at camp together, we both went to work for the YMCA and remain friends to this day!

Advice for Campers: I don't like the term "homesick." It is the most natural thing in the world to miss your parents and home. Most of the campers at camp will miss their parents too; just try not to let that keep you from having a fun time at camp, so you'll have lots of stories to tell Mom and Dad when you get home. I'm a lot older than you and I still miss my parents too!

Anne Bennett, Office Director

anneb@ymcahouston.org

I am a native Houstonian, have one son and have worked for the Y for 9 years. I have found a peace out here that is totally amazing.

Advice for Campers: Stop, look and listen! You will discover so many things. Look up at the millions of stars that shine so brightly out here. Listen to the difference in the bird calls or the wind through the trees. The outdoors is an amazing place to explore with the friends you will make here!

Advice for Parents: The staff will take care of your most precious gift. We want each child to have an awesome and safe camp experience, along with the opportunity to learn and grow.

Aaron Whitacre, Youth Development Director

aaron.whitacre@ymcahouston.org

I'm a proud Texan, Christian, Aggie, son, father and brother. I grew up just north of Dallas playing any and every sport I could think of. You'll hardly ever find me with out a smile on my face and a can win attitude.

Favorite Camp Activity: Anything on the lake- boating, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, wakeboarding, skiing, tubing, swimming. If water is involved, I'm there.

Advice for Campers: Bring plenty of socks! There is nothing worse than bunking under the person with stinky feet. But, really be prepared for a great time and don't be afraid to let loose, meet new people and make new friendships. Seriously, the socks though.

Julie Mangum, Equestrian Director

julie.mangum@ymcahouston.org

I was born and raised in the Houston area. I love being outdoors and with animals, especially horses, so I'm so happy to be living and experiencing this new life at YMCA Camp Cullen!

Favorite Camp Activity: Horses, of course!

Favorite Camp Song: "Deep in the Heart of Texas"

Favorite Memory of Camp: I always loved singing in the dining halls at meals.

Advice for Campers: Don't squat with your spurs on.

Kriste Chrisley, Guest Services Coordinator

kriste.chrisley@ymcahouston.org

I am a proud wife and mother of four, who loves to hunt and spend time outdoors with my family. My God and my family are my life.

Favorite Camp Activity: Gaga Ball

Favorite Camp Song: "I Just Want to be a Sheep"

Favorite Part of Camp Week: Ice breakers at the start of camp

Favorite Memory of Camp: The first year my youngest daughter went to camp. She was really shy, but during that week she came out of her shell in amazing ways.