Amanda Palmer

Biography

Amanda is deeply dedicated to the field of youth camp, contributing through both professional and volunteer roles. She is actively involved with the American Camp Association (ACA) as a program quality coach, national trainer, researcher, and accreditation volunteer, in addition to being a regular contributor to ACA’s Camping Magazine. Amanda’s passion for camp life is also personal-she is a former camper and camp counselor, and now a mother of four young campers.

Expertise

Amanda’s expertise centers on camp program quality, staff development, and organizational alignment. As a doctoral candidate in Education at the University of Idaho, her research focuses on helping camp leaders translate mission-based values into observable staff practices. She has specialized knowledge in consulting for a variety of camp settings, including faith-based camps, adventure camps, and those affiliated with organizations like Girl Scouts and 4-H.

Experience

Amanda’s background includes hands-on experience as a camp counselor and extensive academic training, with a master’s degree in recreation management and a bachelor’s degree in psychology, complemented by minors in philosophy and religious studies. She has provided on-site consulting for camp professionals and guided them through intentional planning, implementation, and reflection to foster environments of challenge, growth, and community for youth.