“I’ve been going to Rowe every year since I was eight years old. It’s been one of the biggest constants in my life, and a place that has turned me into the person I am today.” Max Hunter, Rowe Camp Co-Director
Welcome to a Summer of Empowerment with SHC Co-Directors Luna Gayeski & West Anderson
Set in the serene landscape of western Massachusetts, Rowe’s Senior High Camp (SHC) offers a distinctive setting where young adults thrive within a community that celebrates diversity and self-expression. This summer, we are delighted to have Luna Gayeski and West Anderson as our co-directors. Their deep-rooted connections to Rowe, combined with their leadership and dedication, are poised to enrich our campers' experiences with empowerment, creativity, and profound connections.
Luna Gayeski (They/Them): Championing Self-Determination and Empowerment
Luna’s relationship with Rowe began as a camper, where they learned the value of their unique perspective and the power of having agency over one's destiny. This foundational experience inspired them to return to Rowe in various staff roles, deeply committing to the empowerment of young people. Luna shares, “As a camper, SHC taught me that I had agency over my own destiny and that my unique perspective was valuable. I returned to staff 7 different camp sessions and learned how fulfilling it was to empower young people. I’m thrilled to direct!”
Luna draws inspiration from Douglas Fir Wilson’s view of Rowe as a place “where we put great faith in human nature…[where] we offer radical trust in teenagers, and they respond beautifully.” This philosophy will be at the heart of Luna's leadership approach this summer, aiming to create a camp environment that contrasts with the often-restrained lives teenagers experience, sparking personal growth, discovery, and meaningful connections.
West Anderson (They/Them): Building Community Through Inclusion
From their early days as a camper to becoming a leader for the first Gender-Neutral Cabin, West’s journey at Rowe has been marked by their commitment to inclusivity and support. Currently, as the Assistant Director at the Suicide Prevention Service of the Central Coast, West has developed key skills in crisis intervention, team management, and project leadership. This summer, West aims to use these experiences to enhance the camp’s supportive environment, encouraging campers to explore their identities and build strong community ties.
West reflects on what makes a camp experience truly unforgettable: “I think it’s one of the few experiences I’ve ever had as a teen where I was encouraged to explore boundaries – the boundaries of my identity, the boundaries of fun, the boundaries of what I needed and what the community needed. “Those who best embody the spirit of Rowe are those who learn to live on this edge” – those words have stuck with me since I was a teen at camp. I felt like I was able to have a different kind of freedom at camp than the rest of my life – while also feeling safe and held by a community unlike any I have experienced since.“
Activities and Adventures at SHC
This summer, SHC will offer a wide range of activities designed to empower campers and foster community. Under the guidance of Luna and West, campers will engage in:
- Empowerment Workshops: Led by Luna, these workshops will explore themes such as self-care, resilience, and effective communication, empowering campers to actively participate in their personal and collective growth.
- Community-Building Activities: West looks forward to leading sessions that deepen connections among campers through group discussions, creative arts, and outdoor adventures, all designed to strengthen bonds and encourage self-expression.
A Summer Camp Like No Other
Rowe Camp is more than just a place for summer fun; it's a community where young individuals find like-minded friendships, discover their voices, and learn to soar as free spirits. Our focus on personal growth, acceptance, and community engagement complements our long-standing tradition of being a place “where misfits fit.” At SHC, every program—from creative arts sessions to reflective hikes—is thoughtfully curated to nurture each camper’s unique spirit and foster lasting connections.
Join Us for an Unforgettable Summer
As we prepare for a summer filled with new friendships, adventures, and the chance to be part of a community that values every individual’s journey, we invite you to register for Senior High Camp at Rowe. Financial aid is available to ensure that every teen can experience the magic of Rowe.
Under the leadership of Luna and West, campers will experience a season rich in creativity, introspection, and connection. Rowe's Senior High Camp promises a transformative experience where campers not only enjoy the beauty of nature and the joy of learning but also embrace the freedom to be their authentic selves. Welcome to Rowe, where every summer is an adventure, and every camper finds a place to belong.
