Editor’s Note: This is the fifth installment in our Camp Alleghany Awards Series for the blog, detailing the history and stories behind each of our yearly camp awards. This one was written by Lily Romando’s friend, Maddie Thomas. See all the installments here.
Lily Romando was a girl who was loved by so many and those who didn’t yet know her were definitely drawn to her.
Lily’s free spirit illuminated the space surrounding her and it was obvious to everyone around her. She could always be found with her friends, young and old, or making new ones — her uninhibited goofiness put others at ease. She was so fun loving and always made people feel good.
And she was always ready with a listening ear whenever someone wanted to talk.
Lily could switch from her laid back ways to being the life of the party in a snap. Whether in front or behind the camera her love for her friends and everybody around her was evident. Simply talking to Lily could put a smile on your face and that’s part of what made her so friendly.
Because of each of these phenomenal traits, Lily embodied the image of the friendliest camper. The Senior Camp Friendliest Camper Silver Cup Award is named in honor and memory of Lily Romando.
A long time camper…with a smile!
Lily started as a Junior Camper and fulfilled her camping career as a Sixteen of 2012.
One of her favorite activities at camp was Arts and Crafts. Lily was naturally an “artsy” person. She could most likely be found taking pictures and hanging around tent row with friends. Even when we would just be spending time in our tent, she would always add a little personality and be the life of the party.
Lily’s welcoming nature was an obvious invite to any other camper or counselor that walked by. She was one of the friendliest, most fun, and creative people I’ve known.
Lily was loved by so many and is greatly missed. Her spirit and the memories of time with her will forever be with me. Her tragic death hit Camp Alleghany and ‘Ghany Girls very hard, and is still raw. Many would love to see and talk to her again, if only for a moment. Yet we know she is doing great things and making others happy in Heaven.
Lily Romando exemplifies the friendliest camper and will never be forgotten. She is also a camper who can be cited in memory when donating to the Lantern Scholarship. If you would like to donate to that, you can learn more on the scholarship page.
Maddie Thomas, Alum and Counselor, Camp Alleghany for Girls
