Executive Director
Chris Strevel
Chris first joined Tate’s Day Camp in 1989 while attending the University of Tennessee. He thought he was only looking for a fun summer job but quickly learned that he had found his career. After serving as a camp counselor, head counselor, and assistant director, he accepted the Executive Director role in 1993. In addition to directing summer camp, he is also the Executive Director of Programs for Tate’s School. Chris is the past President of the American Camp Association, Heart of the South Section and has served on numerous committees and task forces with the national organization. He is also a former national board member of the Camp Owners and Directors Association. Chris holds a Communications degree from the University of Tennessee and has completed extensive training for camp professionals through the American Camp Association.
Director and Behavioral Specialist
Jonathan Hodge
Jonathan is entering his 22nd summer with Tate’s Day Camp. In addition to camp, he also works with Tate’s School as the Program Director and Behavioral Specialist. He is a regular presenter at professional conferences and has authored articles for professional publications. Jonathan is a graduate of Carson-Newman University where he obtained a Bachelor of Music in Voice and a Master’s in Counseling and Behavioral Health. Additionally, he holds a PhD in Leadership and Organizational Behavior from the University of the Cumberlands. He is an adjunct professor at Johnson University in Social and Behavioral Sciences and works with individuals and families in private practice as a Licensed Marital and Family Therapist.
Programming Director
Zack Cypcar
Zack is starting his 13th summer at Tate’s Day Camp and lends his masterful creativity to his role of Programming Director. While working at Tate’s, Zack has been a part of Welcome Center, RATT Pack, Special Forces, Camp Counselor, and Team Leader. He also leads the Board Game Week of Tate’s Specialty Camp! Zack attended the University of Tennessee, Knoxville and received his degree in Music Education in May of 2019. Zack also currently works at Tate’s School as the Band Director and Afterschool Program Director.
Office Manager
Haley Johnson
Counselor-In-Training Director
Kristen Brown
Kristen is starting her 11th summer at Tate’s Day Camp and will be serving for the 3rd year as the CIT Director. Prior to being the CIT Director, Kristen was a counselor for 6’s, 7/8’s, and middle school campers. Kristen graduated with her bachelor’s and master’s in education from Tennessee Tech University. During the school year, Kristen teaches 8th grade math in Knox County.
Discovery Program Director
Kelli Hudson
Discovery Program Director
Bella Sanders
Bella will be returning for her 5th summer at Tate’s Day Camp. In addition to camp, Bella has been a part of our afterschool program since 2021, serving as our afterschool director throughout the 2024-2025 school year. The connections with the kids and staff is what drives Bella’s passion for Tate’s. In her free time, Bella enjoys watching movies, reading books, and taking on new art projects. Bella is looking forward to spending this summer with each of her very best friends!
Explorer/Adventure Program Director
Emma Yarbrough
Emma has been a part of the Tate’s family since 2007 when she attended her first summer as a discovery camper. Over the years, Emma has been a CIT, discovery counselor, explorer counselor, and will now be returning as a director in 2025. Emma recently graduated from The University of Tennessee Knoxville with a Bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation. This fall, she will begin her career as a Special Education teacher for Knox County Schools. Emma’s love for camp stems from watching campers and staff grow as they face their fears and take on new, exciting adventures.
Explorer Program Director
Jessie Strader
Starting her 4th full summer at Tate’s, Jessie has served as a counselor, member of the RATT pack, Art Instructor, and sub. A recent graduate of Centre College with a B.S. in Mathematics and French, Jessie has traveled around the world but says there is something special about Tate’s that always seems to bring her back. She is excited to spend her summer in a place she knows with people she loves!
Aquatics Director