Staff Bios
Meet the Asbury Woods Summer Camp Staff!
Asbury Woods is committed to providing a quality summer camp experience. Our summer camp educators are highly qualified individuals who enjoy inspiring others to get outside and explore.
Camp Director
Sarah Bennett
Sarah Bennett, Director of Education & Community programs, has years of experience teaching college-level biology, volunteering in the Erie community, and leading various programs. She has Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Zoology and is excited to use her education and leadership experiences to build upon Asbury Woods’ already excellent programs.
“I have always been fascinated by the natural world and felt most at peace while walking in the woods. My favorite family memories are from camping and hiking in the woods. As I grew older, I wanted to know everything I could about how living things survive and interact with each other and to share that knowledge with people of all ages. I love that Asbury Woods offers so many ways for people of all ages to enjoy and learn about nature. As Director of Education & Community Programs, I am fortunate to lead a team of incredibly talented educators and naturalists to make nature accessible and exciting for everyone. I look forward to working with summer camp kids and their families to make Asbury Woods summer camp an unforgettable experience. When I’m not working, you’ll find me reading, cooking, attending my kids’ sporting events, or camping with my family."
Camp Staff
Emma Mader
Emma Mader, Environmental Educator, has a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science with a concentration in freshwater fisheries and a Master of Science in Secondary Education: Pedagogy and Practice focusing on science education. She has worked with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, the Pennsylvania Coalition of Oral Health, and Mercyhurst University. Emma can’t wait to spread her love of the outdoors this summer!
“I can’t remember a time in my life when I wasn’t inspired by the world around me. Being in nature in any form brings me joy. I especially enjoy fishing and hiking with friends, family, and my dog! I have always wanted to learn more about the environment which has led me to where I am now, and I love sharing my knowledge and passion with those around me. An educator’s job is critical in developing a deep desire in students to not only love learning itself but have a unique love for every subject they encounter. I care deeply about nature, and I believe that if children can explore and learn about nature in the programs like the ones we offer at Asbury Woods, they will learn to love the environment as much as I do. When I’m not at Asbury Woods you can find me wetting a line in our local waterways or taking my dog for long walks by the lake.”
Casey Keating
Casey Keating, Interpretive Naturalist, has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Education and loves helping children, adults, and families get outside and enjoy nature. She has worked at Girl Scout and YMCA camps and taught in indoor and outdoor classrooms in several states and countries. Casey is excited to help campers learn about and explore their natural world at Asbury Woods.
“Some of my favorite childhood memories are from hiking in the woods with my family near my grandmother’s house. That’s where I discovered the joys of exploring the forest, from climbing rocks and trees to watching animals, and from identifying usable plants to learning that the best-tasting water comes from a mountain spring after a long hike. This summer, I’m looking forward to meeting our campers and having fun together outside, finding magic and friendship in the forest. I’ll be co-leading our Trailblazers and Outdoor Adventurer camps. Outside of Asbury Woods, I love exploring and experiencing the Erie County community, including parks, museums, festivals, and the beautiful natural areas in our region.