Steph arrived at Belknap in 2013, along with her husband, Seth, and their two boys, Noah and Tobin. Beginning in 2013, the Kassels served as the sixth Co-Directors in the history of Camp Belknap. Steph is honored to continue the tradition of strong female leadership at camp, as she transitions into the Director of Health & Wellness position for the summer of 2025. Steph first visited Belknap in 1999 after meeting Seth at Colorado College. She shares Seth’s passion for Belknap’s culture, programs and natural beauty.

Steph is a Board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and has a Master of Science in Nursing and Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Colorado. She specializes in the field of diabetes care and research and currently practices at Dartmouth Hitchcock in Hanover. Her passion is working closely with patients of all ages on diabetes management, education, and creating a path to wellness. Steph’s writing and research has appeared in multiple publications, including the New England Journal of Medicine.

Steph is a leader in the camping community in health and wellness. She serves as an advisory member of the Alliance for Camp Health. In addition, she serves on the working group for the American Diabetes Association and Helmsley Trust, developing online education for camp health providers and counselors. She played an integral part in the communication with both the state of NH and nationally during the COVID pandemic. She also served for ten years on the NH Camps Board of Directors.

Steph loves to adventure and introduce people to playing and seeking joy in the outdoors. In 1998, Steph and her sister successfully hiked the entire Appalachian Trail. She spent several years leading wilderness expeditions, including volunteering for a program for kids with diabetes. When not backpacking, she loves running and xc skiing with her family and friends!

 

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