BIO

Andrea “Ash” Nash-Boynton has over 18 years of camp experience. She founded the academy and has served as its director for the past 17 years.

She has a BS and a Master's in Sociology from Virginia Tech with minors in Psychology, Natural Resource Reaction, and History. She formerly worked as an in-home family & individual counselor with children at risk of home removal by the state and provided mental health support to ex-felons. She also taught youth sword fighting, throwing weapons, and archery for 20 years.

In 2019, Ash published her first book with American Camp Association’s Healthy Learning Library on how to strategically shift a camp culture. She has extensive experience in youth development and culture management. She also serves as a camp consultant and trainer for other camps.

Ash resides in Vernon Hill, Virginia with her husband, Dan, and their two rescue fur kids, Mike (a cattle dog/pit mix) and Tess (a part lab/beagle/velociraptor/mimic wannabe).

She is mental health first aid certified.

I believe in the coaching philosophy that “people do well if they can,” rather than “people simply choose to do well.” Every action makes sense to the individual at the time, shaped by their preconceptions, which influence how they perceive the world. These perceptions guide their behaviors, either reinforcing or challenging their existing beliefs. Success comes from meeting people where they are on their journey and building meaningful social connections along the way.

As a forever student, I view mistakes as essential for growth. They are required whoops.

Above all, I believe in providing a safe space for youth to explore their passions, allowing them to express themselves freely and gain confidence to thrive. More and more, this space is needed.

Hobbies: Gaming, Video Game Development, Crafting (wood-turning, sublimation, t-shirt design, leather working etc), Lapidary, Writing, Gardening.

Favorite Camp Food: Quidditch Player's Pie or Dirt

Favorite Mythical Creature: Kitsune

Favorite Music: Filks and sea shanties