Leadership Team
Our Full Time Staff
Marie Mehak
Education Director
Marie has been a teacher in the Willowgrove Outdoor Education for over 10 years and in the past year took on the role of coordinator. In addition to her passion for working with school classes in the out of doors, Marie is also a supply child and youth worker for the York Region board of education.
Sarah Kokkinen
Willowgrove Camp Director
Sarah is a certified teacher with a deep passion for child-centered education, having previously served as our Nature School Teacher before stepping into the role of Camp Director at Willowgrove Day Camp. With extensive experience in various child-focused organizations, she is dedicated to fostering a nurturing and engaging environment where children can explore, learn, and grow through hands-on experiences in nature.
Julie Reesor
Finance Director
Julie has worked with Willowgrove for 25 years, and works in the Willowgrove office three days a week as Bookkeeper.
Laura Yakutchik
Barn Supervisor
Laura has been with the Willowgrove team for 13 years in a variety of roles. From greeting weekend guest at special events, teaching visiting school groups in the forest, fields and pond or caring for the farm animals every day. Helping people to appreciate, explore and have fun in the great outdoors is
what makes her smile.
Alex Rocci
Farm Manager
Alex has been an essential part of Willowgrove since 2023, bringing expertise and dedication to every corner of the farm. As our orchard specialist, she carefully tends to the trees, manages seasonal tasks, and supports the overall health and productivity of the property. With a genuine love for the outdoors, Alex keeps the farm running smoothly year-round.
Michelle Xu
Bookkeeper
Michelle has a long-standing personal connection to Willowgrove through her Mennonite church community and her sons’ experiences as campers—her eldest also served as a counsellor. With a background in both science and business, she has worked in medical research, business operations, and financial administration. She enjoys learning, problem-solving, and collaborative teamwork. Michelle considers it a blessing to work at Willowgrove, where the values of peace, community, and service deeply resonate with her.
Angela Mehak
General Manager Fraser Lake Camp, Willowgrove Communications Manager
Born and raised in Stouffville, Angela spent her childhood enjoying country life with her parents and 6 siblings. Years later (and now with children of her own) Willowgrove has become an important part of Angela’s family life. With her love for camping, photography, and the great outdoors, Angela loves being Fraser Lake’s General Manager and Willowgrove’s Communication Manager.
Beth Smith
Social Media & Content Supervisor + Rentals Host
Beth started out as a staff member at Willowgrove Day Camp. As she pursued her education in design and photography, she found her passion for storytelling and digital engagement. Now, Beth combines her love for the outdoors with her knack for social media. She loves sharing the magic of camp life through captivating content and engaging with our community online.
Tracey Rees
Office Manager
As Office Manager, Tracey appreciates being able to familiarize herself with Willowgrove's property, programs, and people. She enjoys nature walks with her husband and son - always with a camera in hand. The sound of a creek running, birds chirping, and wind rustling the leaves in the trees are music to her ears.
Wayne Parkhurst
Fraser Lake Camp Property Manager
Wayne (or as he is known around camp: "Old Man Fraser" or "Poppa Wayne") has lived on or near Fraser Lake all of his life. His past work experiences have included retail, tourism, lumber, manufacturing, plumbing, and heating - all of which have come in handy over the past 23 years while working at Fraser Lake Camp.
Vanessa Langen
Maintenance Coordinator
Vanessa is enthusiastic about everything she does as Maintenance Coordinator at Willowgrove's Facilities. Her wide range of skills, and willingness to learn new things makes her a perfect match for this demanding role. She is happiest when she is able to help others and is passionate about making a positive difference in the quality of experience the staff and guests have at the Farm.