Every September I sit down for my annual post-summer debrief and try—somehow!—to choose just five favorite moments from another fantastic season at ’Ghany. It’s never easy to narrow it down; there are simply too many small joys, big wins, and heart-full memories. But traditions are traditions, so here they are, counted down from five to one.
5) Campfires
It might sound generic, but our campfires were truly special this year. I love Campfire night—the gathering, the glow, the way familiar songs wrap around us like a quilt. The harmonies were beautiful all summer long—those layered voices that make you close your eyes and just listen. And our classics, NCCC Campfire and Silver Moon Campfire, delivered joyful, heartwarming skits that had everyone laughing and leaning in. First Term, the Support Staff staged a brilliant Wicked-themed skit with a camp-y twist (still smiling thinking about it). Second Term, our 10-years pulled off another great one, and I even got to be in it. Each campfire carried a gentle lesson woven into the laughter and storytelling, and every voice lifted in song felt like home.
4) Driving Campers to Camp Greenbrier (Both Terms!)
This is something I rarely get to do, but the stars aligned and I served as a driver for our Rifle, Archery, and Tennis competitors both terms. The car time was a gift, with unhurried conversation, nerves and excitement, and the sweetest window into how campers were experiencing their summers. Watching them compete at Camp Greenbrier was a joy in itself: poise under pressure, grit, teamwork, and sportsmanship on full display. The weather cooperated, the energy was high, and while we didn’t win every match, our campers played hard, supported each other beautifully, and represented Alleghany with pride.
3) Surprise Visits from My Parents (Both Terms!)
Retired directors (also my parents!) Sam and Bonnie Dawson surprised camp both terms. They slipped into the Play Hall during Assembly, coming in through the back and appearing on stage to a wave of cheers (and a few happy tears!). They spent the morning strolling through camp, greeting campers and staff, and stayed through lunch to soak it all in. Having them back at ’Ghany, sharing hugs and stories and that knowing sparkle in their eyes, was a lovely full-circle moment for me and for so many who know them.
2) Our Staff
From counselors to leadership, from chefs to support staff and beyond—this team was extraordinary. The staff is the heartbeat of camp; everything we aspire to do for children begins with the people who show up every day to teach, guide, encourage, and model kindness. I’m honored and humbled by their dedication, resilience, and joy. Thank you, each and every one of you, for the long days, the creative problem-solving, the patient listening, the belly laughs, and the steady love for our campers. You made this summer sing.
1) Our Fundraiser for Camp Mystic
When devastating flooding struck in July, our community rallied with overwhelming generosity. Alongside a gift from Camp Alleghany, our families and friends helped us send $30,000 to Camp Mystic to use where it was most needed. The outpouring reflected what we all believe: the power of summer camp matters—its people, its places, its purpose. Standing in solidarity reminded us that while we wear different logos, we’re one camp family at heart. It was humbling and profoundly moving.
Bonus: Feeling Confident in Our Emergency Plans and Safety Procedures
The events in Texas were heartbreaking and sobering. They also prompted us to take an even closer look at our own emergency practices and to communicate them openly with our families. We review these plans annually and rehearse them regularly, but this was an important chance to re-evaluate with fresh eyes. Our goal wasn’t to compare ourselves with anyone else—every camp, place, and circumstance is different—but to ensure that our procedures are clear, current, and well-practiced. We came away reassured: our plans are solid, reviewed often, and tested by both time and real-world scenarios. We’ll share more detail this fall in a blog series on safety and emergency preparedness, because transparency builds trust and preparedness builds calm.
Looking Back—and Ahead
Summer 2025 was wonderful—rich with tradition, full of growth, and brimming with the kind of memories that keep us smiling well into sweater weather. We’re still reveling in the songs, the friendships, the little moments that add up to something big. And, yes, we’re already looking ahead to 2026 with fresh ideas and hopeful hearts.
What were your favorite memories from this summer? I’d love to hear them—drop a note and let’s keep the ’Ghany spirit going all year!
