Directors & Leadership

Ian

Director/Owner

At Black Bear Since 2010

Simply put…Ian is camp and camp is Ian. He began his career as a camper, counselor, Division Leader and administrator at a traditional day camp in New Jersey. Ian has only missed 2 summers at camp since he was 3 years old! He takes pride in his hands on approach to camping. His personal leadership and spirit is reflected in Black Bear Lake’s rich traditions, extraordinary staff, and quality program. Ian is an active member of the American Camp Association and regularly attends and participates in industry events and conferences in order to find ways to further improve the camp experience. Ian graduated from Rutgers University with a degree in Economics and a focus on Business Management and Entrepreneurship. He lives in Howell with his wife Dara, whom he met at summer camp!

Ian loves talking to new families, current families, alumni, staff and ANYONE who wants to discuss camp!

Email: Ian@blackbearlake.com

Rob

Assistant Director

At Black Bear Since 2023

Rob returned to Black Bear Lake in 2023 after spending 2 years living in Colorado working with Avid 4 Adventure, a summer program reconnecting kids and teens to the power of nature and the outdoors. A former Black Bear Lake Group Leader, Rob is returning “home” so he can provide an amazing experience to Black Bear Lake campers and staff. Focusing primarily on hiring and staffing, Rob will be a mentor, coach, and cheerleader for the Black Bear Lake team. In addition, he will be working very closely with The Programming Team and Ian developing special events and overall ensuring a positive, fun, and successful camp season!

Jenn

Administrative Director

At Black Bear Since 2012

Jenn is the voice on the other end of the phone when you call camp. She began working at BBL in 2012 as the Transportation Director. More recently, Jenn serves as the camp office manager and coordinator, as well as overseeing all camp communication and registration. Staffing and staff training rounds out her ever growing list of camp tasks. Jenn has grown to understand the true power of camp.

Tom

Facility Manager

At Black Bear Since 2020

Tom joined the Black Bear Lake family in 2020 with a lifetime’s worth of experience in both commercial and residential construction. His relationship with Ian goes back to the 7 years he served as the Facility Director at the same private day camp. Tom also has 20+ years’ experience as the Owner/Operator of a local soccer camp servicing both Monmouth and Ocean Counties. Tom works hand in hand with Ian and his dedicated team of workers and contractors on improving the facility in every aspect possible. He lives in Brick with his wife Lorraine. His 3 children attended and worked as counselors at day camp. Tom is very grateful for the experience his children had at summer camp.

Carlos

Facility Manager

At Black Bear Since 2023

Carlos joined the Black Bear Lake team at the start of 2023 as the Assistant Facility Manager. Originally from East Brunswick, he now resides in New Brunswick. Carlos is considered a “jack of all trades” but his primary focus is on carpentry. He is a valuable asset to the BBL Team and always works until the task is completed. Carlos is very sociable and is always willing to lend a helping hand! When you see Carlos working around camp, don’t be afraid to say hi!