We recently asked our 2017 Day Camp Leadership Team members a few questions to help you and campers get to know them a bit better in preparation for this coming summer!

Meet Chris Strevel!

Q: How many summers have you worked for Tate’s Day Camp?

A: “My first summer was 1989, and I’m starting my 29th summer.”

Q: What is your official job title?

A: “Executive Director”

Q: Can you explain your role this coming summer?

A: “Although I’m in charge of the entire summer operation, I’m fortunate to have a talented leadership team that assists me with interviewing and hiring staff; training the staff; marketing; purchasing and budget management; programming; maintaining accreditation standards; giving tours to prospective families; leading activities with staff and campers, telling stories about funny little squirrels; and best of all – when a commode stops up, I’m the first one that gets to use the plunger and often also the first one to get to use the mop.”

Q: What do you enjoy most about Tate’s Day Camp?

A: “I enjoy the camp culture which includes a very family-like atmosphere with the opportunity to work with some of the greatest staff members and families on the planet. I enjoy watching the campers try new things, make new friends, and gain confidence in themselves and their abilities. I enjoy going to work each day and genuinely living the life of Peter Pan, only my Neverland is called Tate’s Day Camp.”

Q: Are you in school? If so, what are you studying and why?

A: “Although I’m not in ‘school,’ I continue to learn as much each summer from our campers and staff as I give them. I’m a lifelong learner, and I’ve learned a lot the hard way. My formal education is a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Tennessee in Communications.”

Q: What are you most excited about for this coming summer?

A: “I’m excited to see the smiling faces of our returning staff members and campers and have opportunities to get to know the new ones. Once you join our Tate’s Family, we’re always family. I’m also excited about our new athletic and dining hall named the Barn at Tate’s Farm that will give us endless opportunities that we’ve never had.”