Kamryn Sherman standing in a field of flowers.

Kamryn Sherman brings a love of nature to her role as STEAM Program Coordinator.

Q: Tell us about your personal and professional background.
A: Hidden in the oak trees in a place of four seasons is a small town on the southern edge of the Sierra Nevada called Tehachapi, Calif., which is where I grew up. With my parents both having a bachelor’s degree in science—Dad (geology) and Mom (biology)—I was always learning about the biotic and abiotic characteristics of the surrounding environment.

I remember hiking in Mammoth Lakes alongside my dad, who explained all about the historic volcanic eruptions and evidence of glacial presence found on rocks from the ice age. I also recall exploring trails around my home and my mom identifying animals using signs or footprints left behind. The most memorable moment was when she identified a gopher snake hanging from the beak of a red-tailed hawk as if it flew over our heads. So much of their knowledge impacted my interest in the outdoors and science. 

Interestingly, my first experience working with youth wasn’t related to science or the outdoors, but it was as a dance teacher. After spending 13 years traveling around California as a competitive dancer, I pivoted into the role of a choreographer and instructor. During those years, I discovered how fulfilling it was to create a fun, safe, and supportive environment for youths to explore the expressive art form of dance. Watching my students sparkle on stage as they built confidence, friendship, and determination, while making the performance their own, was a joyous experience that helped me to realize my purpose. 

In 2021, I decided to attend OSU-Cascades in Bend, Oregon and major in natural resources. I packed my bags and off I went to the ponderosa trees of Central Oregon. After graduating, I landed an internship with the Upper Deschutes Watershed Council as an Education Intern, where my two passions collided. I led youths on explorative hikes in Bend that allowed them to learn about and connect with nature. This opportunity really altered my idea of what career I was looking for and, from it, more doors led into outdoor education eventually leading me to Camp Fire Central Oregon. 

Kamryn Sherman walks on a mountain trail.

Kamryn values connection to nature, a core aspect of Camp Fire's mission.

Q: What drew you to Camp Fire Central Oregon?
A: Camp Fire Central Oregon was just the organization I was looking for! Camp Fire’s mission of connecting youth to nature, themselves, and others aligns perfectly with my values and interests! I have always had a deep connection with nature and working with kids but was unsure as to where to find a career that aligned with both. Here at Camp Fire, those two passions are blended together through a variety of long-lasting and impactful experiences for youth in our community. Being a part of the community that offers these explorative outdoor opportunities for kids is exactly where I want to be! 

Q: Describe your role for Camp Fire Afterschool?
A: My Role at Camp Fire is to organize and implement nature-based learning through science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics. I run the STEAM summer camps, No School Day Camps, and  FLL (FIRST LEGO® League) competitive teams. All my programs bring opportunities for youth to discover their passion and build their knowledge in a fun and explorative way. I work to ensure all youth learn, discover, and develop into sensational scientists, terrific technicians, explorative engineers, amusing artists, and magical mathematicians!

Kamryn Sherman stands in front of a waterfall.

Taking new hikes is one of Kamryn's "sparks"!

Q: What are your sparks?
A: I have lots of SPARKS: I enjoy discovering new hikes, reading a thrilling book, strengthening my body in a barre class, watering my plants, and bringing my creativity to life through painting! I’m always up to try something new and don’t fear the uncomfortable beginning of a new skill or experience. You can always find me buying a plant or swinging in my hammock. 

Q: What are some of your personal & professional goals?
A: I believe that, in life, we are in a constant cycle of progression because there are always opportunities to grow. Professionally, I would like to continue to grow as a leader and educator. There is always room for improvement, and I strive to always put my best foot forward! A personal goal of mine is to one day publish a book! 

Q: What’s your favorite part of working with youth?
A: I enjoy all parts of working with the youth. From their small commentaries to building friendships, working through disagreements, and watching youths grow in character, leadership, and independence—all of it is very fulfilling. But nothing will ever compare to the glow they develop throughout the day during a program, craft, or experience and radiate as they excitedly tell their parents what they experienced or learned and how much they are looking forward to returning the next day. There's nothing more fulfilling than seeing how impactful these experiences are for our youth.

Youth and robotics staff around a LEGO robotics table.

In working with Camp Fire STEAM program, one of Kamryn's (top row, far right) roles is helping teach LEGO® Robotics.

Q: Why does your job (and Camp Fire!) matter?
A: My job as a STEAM Program Coordinator at Camp Fire matters because it greatly aligns with our core mission of connecting youths to nature! In my programs, youth explore science, technology, engineering, art, and math through interactive activities that prompt their curiosity. These STEAM-focused programs can potentially introduce a kid to their inner calling toward a career, hobby, or new interest! My job allows so many youth to experience exploration differently than they have experienced it before, which is why Camp Fire matters. Camp Fire opens doors to countless opportunities for kids to gain experiences they might not otherwise have. I personally never experienced a camp environment, and watching youths shine in our programs has shown me the importance of being a part of a great organization!