CAMP STAFF
SUMMER 2025
Camp Canyon prides itself on its exceptional staff. All staff have prior camp experience and a desire to give the children the best summer experience possible.
Chaya Shapiro
Director
I’m Chaya Shapiro, proud to serve as Camp Director at Camp Canyon, which I founded back in 2007 (originally called Gan Izzy). What began as a small day camp has grown into a dynamic and beloved summer experience for children in Flagstaff and beyond.
Over the past 25 years, I’ve worked with children in a wide range of educational and leadership settings—from teaching and special needs support to directing youth programs. In 2021, I founded Teva Tots, Flagstaff’s first Jewish preschool, which I’ve had the joy of directing ever since. I also established Flagstaff’s Hebrew School of the Arts and remain passionate about building strong, joyful Jewish spaces for kids to grow and connect.
As a mom of ten children, ages 2 to 19, I bring both personal and professional experience to everything I do. I’m honored to help shape another meaningful and memorable summer at Camp Canyon!
Geulah Notik
Assistant Camp Director
Hi! I’m Geulah Notik, and I’m so excited to be stepping into the role of Assistant Camp Director this summer! I’ve spent nearly 15 years working with children of all ages—as a day camp counselor in Gan Izzy and local camps, a school program director, and a first-grade teacher.
I love creating spaces where kids feel happy, safe, and free to be themselves. I’m super organized, detail-oriented, and bring lots of warmth and energy to everything I do. I can’t wait to help make this summer unforgettable!
Esther Fischer
ADVENTURE DIVISION COUNSELOR
Hi! My name is Esther Fischer, and I’m from Los Angeles, California. I’ve had the pleasure of working as a camp counselor for the past few summers, and it’s something I truly love. Camp is such a special place, and I especially enjoy working with kids and watching them grow into the best version of themselves.
I’m so excited to be joining the Camp Canyon team this summer and can’t wait to meet all the campers! I’m looking forward to a summer full of laughter, growth, and unforgettable memories.
Certified in CPR and First Aid
Rochel Friedman
ADVENTURE DIVISION COUNSELOR
Hi! I’m Rochel Friedman from New York, and I’m so excited to be part of Camp Canyon this summer! I’ve worked as a camp counselor for the past few years and absolutely love the energy and excitement of camp life.
I’m ready for a summer filled with fun, connection, and amazing memories. I can’t wait to meet all the campers and make this summer the best one yet!
Certified in CPR and First Aid
Chaya Weiss
ADVENTURE DIVISION COUNSELOR
Hi, I’m Chaya Weiss, and I’m so excited to be a counselor at Camp Canyon this summer! I love working with kids and creating a fun, supportive environment where everyone feels included and encouraged.
In my free time, I enjoy outdoor adventures and arts and crafts—and I can’t wait to bring that creativity and energy to camp. I’m looking forward to an unforgettable summer filled with fun, friendships, and amazing memories!
Certified in CPR and First Aid
Yitty Werner
KIDDIE CAMP LEAD COUNSELOR
Hi, my name is Yitty Werner. I am a proud mom of 6 beautiful children.
One of my deep passions is observing children and how much they absorb and grow during their prime years. I learn so much from children, they are my teachers, as each of them are a piece of G-d. I have been a Kindergarten Morah as well as a Teachers Aid for the past 5 years in Brooklyn, NY.
I love what nature has to offer and I look forward for the opportunity to spend some of my summer in Flagstaff with your little gems.
Lacey FroN
KIDDIE CAMP LEAD COUNSELOR
I’m Lacey, and I’m so excited to be joining Camp Canyon this summer! For the past two years, I’ve worked at Teva Tots, most recently as Lead Teacher, where I’ve loved creating warm, supportive spaces for kids to grow and thrive.
With a background in social work and behavioral health, I’m passionate about helping children build confidence, emotional awareness, and strong social skills. Whether through yoga, creative play, or a good soccer game, I bring energy and heart to everything I do.
Originally from Chicago and Gilbert, Arizona, I moved to Flagstaff in 2019 and earned my degree from NAU. I’m looking forward to an amazing summer full of fun, growth, and connection!
Campbell Blair
KIDDIE CAMP COUNSELOR
Hi! I’m Campbell Blair. I’ve lived in Flagstaff since I was little and am currently pursuing a B.S. in Life Sciences with hopes of becoming a physical therapist. I’m passionate about helping others—especially kids—and love watching them learn and grow.
Over the years, I’ve worked as a nanny for several families and as a camp counselor at both soccer and horse camps. Most recently, I’ve spent the past few months as an assistant teacher at Teva Tots, which has deepened my love for early childhood education.
As one of seven siblings, I’ve learned patience, teamwork, and how to thrive in joyful chaos. In my free time, I enjoy being outdoors, playing sports, and finding small ways to bring joy to others. I’m excited for a summer of fun, connection, and meaningful moments at Camp Canyon!
Rivkah Weisfish
KIDDIE CAMP COUNSELOR
Hi! I’m Rivkah Weisfish from New York, and I’m thrilled to be joining Camp Canyon this summer! I’ve spent the past three summers as a counselor at a day camp in New York, and I’m so excited to bring that experience, energy, and love for camp life to an unforgettable summer together!
Certified in CPR and First Aid