Upper School students welcomed GVS parent Will Pierce to speak as part of the Green Vale’s Parent & Alumni Speaker Series. This ongoing initiative introduces students to professionals with diverse experiences and insights, offering a glimpse into potential career paths.
Pierce, a proud parent of two GVS students (Ben and Brooke), captivated the audience with his enthusiasm for summer camping and his role as the owner and camp director of Pierce Country Day Camp on Long Island and Pierce Camp Birchmont in New Hampshire. Drawing from decades of expertise, he provided a comprehensive look at what it takes to run a summer camp and the immense benefits it offers children.
He began by introducing students to the dynamic world of summer camps, showcasing a virtual tour of Pierce Camp Birchmont, a sleepaway camp for children ages 7-15. Through aerial views and video clips, students got a glimpse of the sprawling campgrounds, including a pristine lake for water sports, art and crafts centers, soccer fields, and even a 100-tree orchard. Pierce emphasized the value of shared experiences like bunking in cabins and enjoying communal meals, which foster a strong sense of community—similar to the camaraderie at Green Vale.
Diving into the responsibilities of a camp director, Pierce explained that his role is far more extensive than many imagine. From managing 350 acres of property and overseeing construction projects like a new barn and obstacle courses, to overseeing more than 250 staff members, the job requires dedication and versatility. Safety, he stressed, remains the top priority, whether it’s maintaining facilities or planning transportation for campers across 26 states and 16 countries.
Beyond operations, Pierce described the joy of developing innovative programs and activities that cater to campers’ diverse interests, from outdoor skills and water sports to performing arts and gardening. The camp’s curriculum evolves annually based on camper feedback, ensuring a dynamic and enriching experience.
The session ended with thoughtful questions from students, who were inspired by Pierce’s dedication and the exciting world of summer camps. Pierce’s advice to students? To find a career that blends passion, purpose, and the power to enrich others’ lives.