Our Leadership

Camp Director

Ingrid VanZanten

campkanuga@kanuga.org

Ingrid is a native Utahn and has dedicated her career to fostering growth, connection, and transformation through education and outdoor experiences. With a background as a public school teacher, she has a deep understanding of youth development and the power of learning in community. Her passion for the camping industry has led her to years of leadership in Episcopal camps, where she has helped create meaningful, inclusive experiences for campers and staff alike.

An avid outdoor enthusiast, she believes in the power of nature to inspire resilience, confidence, and personal growth. Her skills in staff development, youth programming, and leadership training reflect her commitment to building strong, supportive communities. She is excited to continue cultivating spaces where young people and staff can thrive, bringing her vision for collective transformation and community-building to Camp Kanuga.

Program Director

Elise Croak

ecroak@kanuga.org

Growing up in Atlanta, GA and Auburn, AL, Elise experienced growth and formation at Kanuga as a Guest Period attendee, summer camper, and camp staff member. Her experiences at Kanuga led her to pursue a degree in Recreation Management, Outdoor Experiential Education, and Sociology at Appalachian State University. During her time at ASU, Elise was on the board of the Emerging Professionals in Camp Club and she obtained her ACA Associate Visitor certification. After graduating, Elise moved to Hendersonville, NC to work as a Residential Caregiver at a therapeutic boarding school for teens. She is a cradle Episcopalian who has a deep love for entering into fellowship with the outdoors and the people around her. Mountain biking, cooking, music, and spending time with friends occupy most of her free time. Elise is called to fostering connection to God, each other, and Creation with those she serves, and is excited to bring that mission to Camp Kanuga.

Registrar, Camps and Outdoors

Deven Blake

dblake@kanuga.org

Originally from Memphis, Tennessee where she attended St. Mary’s Episcopal School, Deven continued her education at Sewanee: The University of the South. She has undergraduate and masters degrees in psychological studies, and has presented and been published in a number of educational settings. Deven has an extensive background in camps and education, including a post as assistant to the director in a large Episcopal summer camp program. She first came to Kanuga as Camp Kanuga staff in 2022 and has joined us this year as registrar. Deven spends her free time hiking, fishing, rockhounding, embroidering, and cooking. She is passionate about sustainability and creating a welcoming environment that fosters growth and development for each person who visits Kanuga.