Camp Staff:
Camp Whitewood's Staff is a closeknit group of unique, camp-loving individuals dedicated to bringing you the very best in camping. Folks agree when they see the staff together they function like a happy family. When you visit Camp Whitewood be sure to stop and talk to each of the staff members; of course, that isn't hard to do when they are all so friendly!
Jesseca, like many others in the camping profession, strives to ensure that camp is a safe and positive environment for children to learn, discover, and grow!
Jesseca grew up attending the 4-H County Camps at Camp Whitewood as a camper, counselor, and dean of women. She even went on to become a 4-H Youth Development Educator to continue on as a county director and board member for camp before transitioning into this Program Director role.
2027 will be Jesseca's 12th summer at Camp Whitewood!
Jesseca's favorite part of her job is seeing this same growth and transitions of our attendees, from camper to counselor, and into the very staff that she trains for our summer programs! Their stories of camp mean the most to her.
From these experiences, Jesseca is excited to ensure that our programs are engaging and safe for all camping participants to try, discover, try again, succeed and grow.
Jesseca Housel
Program Director
Dakota Ward
Executive Director
Dakota joined us officially on June 1st, 2026 under the title of Executive Director. He was welcomed in with open arms and bright smiles, as for many of us - he is not a new face here at camp. Dakota began his journey with Whitewood back in 2006! He has grown from a camper, Geauga 4-H Counselor, and began his time on summer staff in 2015. Dakota has made an effort to return to camp every summer since then, (seriously, he’s worked in every role from programming to maintenance), and now, he’s in charge of the whole thing! We are welcoming in his depth of knowledge, alongside his passion & dedication to make Whitewood a better place.
2027 will be Dakota's 21st summer at Camp Whitewood!
Dakota is looking forward to the opportunities that can be brought back into Whitewood. He is actively building connections within the local community, reaching for our roots, and strives to expand our current camp offerings! If you are interested in bringing something to Whitewood (history, knowledge, rentals, weddings, events, & more) be sure to reach out!
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