May 7 Spring 2026 Newsletter

Dear Raquette Families,

We can already feel the excitement building for Summer 2026, and it’s shaping up to be a really special one as we celebrate our 110th summer together. Milestones like this always bring us back to what matters most: the friendships, the traditions, and the feeling of being part of something that lasts well beyond the summer.

As we head into the summer, we wanted to share a bit more of what’s been happening behind the scenes and give you a clearer sense of the people supporting your children each day. While a few roles have evolved, much of what you know and trust about Raquette remains exactly the same: the same people, the same values, and the same care that has always defined our camp.

Raquette continues to be guided by our family. Together with Kathi and Eddie, we remain closely connected to camp and to the experience we create for your children each day.

Over time, we’ve continued to build out our year-round team in a way that feels very true to Raquette; people who know this place, care deeply about it, and have grown up within it. David Rafferty is someone who many of you already know well, whether from his years as Director of Boys Camp or long before that as a Group Leader. Over his 20 summers on staff, and in recent years working closely with us beyond the summer on staffing and planning, his role has naturally grown into Executive Director, where he now helps guide both camps more broadly.

Alison, our Director of Operations, has also been an important part of that year-round effort. With 20 years at Raquette, including over a decade on staff and many more years as a camper, she brings a deep understanding of camp and a steady, thoughtful presence behind the scenes, something we feel very lucky to have. Her experience spans across both the second-generation camper and staff sides, giving her a unique perspective that plays a meaningful role in how we operate day-to-day.

On Girls Camp, we are incredibly excited for Carrie White to step into the Director role. Carrie’s 15 summers at Raquette, including six on staff, have shaped the experience and warmth she brings to her leadership. She is joined by Jon and Shannon Stoler; Jon’s connection to Raquette spans nearly three decades, including 20 years on staff. He grew up as a camper, continued as a counselor and Group Leader, and is now our Program Director; Shannon, who many of you know well from her time as a Group Leader and Head Counselor, now serves as Camp Life Director, focusing on the individual care and day-to-day experience of our campers.

With these adjustments, we’ve also made a natural transition on Boys Camp. Mark “Sparky” Howell has stepped into the Director role after 26 summers on staff, having served in nearly every position at camp, from counselor to Group Leader, Assistant Director, and Program Director. He will be working alongside Adam Schumer and Stephanie Steren, with Adam stepping into the Program Director role after several years as Head Counselor and Stephanie, with over 15 summers on staff, continuing her long standing role as Camp Life Director supporting the wellbeing of our campers.

Across both camps, this is a team with decades of shared experience, deep roots, and a genuine understanding of what Raquette means to your children. While some titles may be new, the people and the approach remain very familiar, and that sense of continuity is something we care deeply about.

What we’re most excited about is bringing all of this together: the people, the program, and the energy of a full-summer back on the lake; and we’re looking forward to welcoming everyone back for another unforgettable summer at Raquette, and are grateful for the trust you place in us.

With Gratitude,

Tara & Gregg Lapidus

Dear RLGC Families,

We are eagerly counting down the days until we arrive at our beloved summer home! As spring renews our hopes with a song in our heart…our memories yearn for Raquette. With each passing week, our excitement builds as we prepare to welcome your children for another incredible summer. 51 days and counting!

As I enter my 15th summer at Raquette, I am deeply honored to step into the role of Director of the Girls Camp during this exciting new chapter in our 110 year history. Having grown within this community, I am committed to preserving the traditions that make Raquette so special while supporting the thoughtful evolution of our programs to meet the needs of today’s campers and families.

At its core, Raquette is about connection; friendships that last a lifetime, the confidence that comes from trying something new, and the joy of being part of a supportive and spirited community. Each day is intentionally designed to help campers grow in independence, build meaningful relationships, and, of course, have an incredible amount of fun along the way.

The magic of Raquette lies in the community that we build together and the bonds we create summer after summer. There is nothing I love more than seeing camp come to life; days filled with laughter, energy, cheers, and song, all set against the beauty of the dancing diamonds that shine on the lake. Raquette is a place where campers feel known, supported, and inspired to be their best selves.

Our team has spent the off season listening carefully to feedback from campers, staff, and families. This summer, you can expect both the cherished traditions you know and love, along with exciting program enhancements that will enrich your child’s experience in thoughtful and meaningful ways. This promises to be another unforgettable season at Raquette Lake Camps that you will talk about all year long!

I am so grateful for the trust you place in us and cannot wait to share this summer with your family. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions as we get closer to opening day.

With love,

Carrie White

Dear RLBC Families,

Picture the morning mist lifting off the lake as campers run down the hill toward the Dining Hall and another day of friendship, activities and laughter. It’s coming soon!

What began for me as a summer job; teaching waterskiing and serving as a bunk counselor with the lower juniors; quickly became something far more meaningful. I fell in love with the “Spirit of Raquette”; the close friendships, the unforgettable experiences, and the quiet beauty of the lake. Raquette has been my summer home for the past 26 years.

Over those seasons I’ve had the privilege to serve in many roles; Head of Ski, Group Leader, and, for the past 16 summers, Program Director. Now I’m both humbled and thrilled to step into the role of Director of Raquette Lake Boys Camp.

As we celebrate our 110th summer, I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to carry forward our rich traditions while helping shape an exciting future. Our leadership teams at Boys Camp and Girls Camp are eager to welcome your children and make the summer of 2026 a safe, joyful, and memorable season. You can expect the same magic that keeps campers and alumni thinking about Raquette all year long and all life long.

Thank you for the trust you place in us. We can’t wait to share another incredible summer together.

Counting down the days,

Mark “Sparky” Howell