DIRECTORS AND STAFF
Shwayder Camp staff hail from around the world. With diverse backgrounds and years of camp experience, our staff will ensure that campers are safe, happy and having the best summer ever. Our Directors are dedicated to creating a feeling of community at Shwayder. They build campers’ confidence and maintain a balanced lifestyle throughout the summer where campers can flourish and develop long-lasting relationships. Temple Emanuel clergy also play a large role at Shwayder Camp by teaching Jewish values through activities and celebrations.
Brad Cohen, Director
Brad Cohen is an out-of-the-box, innovative Jewish educator who for the past two years has led the Temple Emanuel Youth and Family Education Team. He was faculty at URJ, Camp Harlam for 10 years and served as a Unit Head at URJ Camp Newman. He holds a master’s degree in Jewish Education from Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion as well as a certificate in Jewish Education specializing in adolescents and emerging adults. He is known for being creative, project-oriented, and intentional. Brad also serves in a volunteer capacity as a board member for the Association of Reform Jewish Educators and Bluff Lake Nature Center. Brad loves spending time outdoors hiking with his three kids (Elie, 11; Zev, 9; and Olivia, 5) and his incredible wife Claire
OUR EXCEPTIONAL CAMP STAFF
The exceptional individuals who make up our staff are exemplary role models for your children. They are caring, mature, experienced and certified in both First Aid and CPR. Our ten-day staff training program serves to enhance their existing skill set and expose them to the most cutting-edge research and theory in the ever changing world of Jewish summer camping. The vast majority of our staff grew up at Shwayder Camp themselves, extending the Shwayder experience L’dor V’dor (from generation to generation). Others join us from our homeland, bringing the soul, culture and energy of Israel to our front door. Each of our staff remembers with great reverence the vibrancy of youth and is dedicated to leading a positive Jewish life. With a nearly two-to-one camper-to-staff ratio, campers have the opportunity to form close relationships with those who guarantee their safety and well-being.
