Executive Director
Hi I’m Britt! I’m originally from South Dakota. I graduated with a sociology and psychology degree with emphasis in child development in 2011. After college I was a camp counselor for 1 summer and it changed my life completely! I met Zach (another camp counselor) and moved to Ames to pursue our relationships. We got married and started a family. We now have 3 children and 2 dogs Zach grew up going to family camp at Lakeside and has a special love for Lakeside. The whole Swanson family is a “Camp” family and excited to be serving such a powerful ministry.
When I’m not sharing Lakeside with others, you’ll find me backpacking, kayaking, puzzling, playing board games, working out, learning primitive survival, hammocking, sewing, drawing, painting, playing softball, volleyball, racquetball, bags, or any game that my kids want to play!
I volunteer at my local church, school, city parks and rec, food pantries, and serve on the board of Western IA WELCA.
Camp Director
My name is Kyle Rydell. I am humbled to be the Camp Director at Lutheran Lakeside coming in with over 6 years of experience working in outdoor ministries. I grew up in East Tennessee around the base of the Smokey Mountains. That’s where my love for God’s beautiful creation, the great outdoors, first rooted. I went to Maryville College to study music education, but when I was presented with the opportunity to work in outdoor ministries I knew that I had to follow this new path. I worked as the Hospitality Intern, then Activities and Retreat Coordinator at Briarwood Retreat Center. After 4 amazing and challenging years I moved to North Dakota February, of 2020 to work as the Associate Director at Park River Bible Camp. Learning how to run operations and programmatic aspects of camp during the past two years of Covid-19, fear, and uncertainty. Through it all God provides, and pointed me to Lutheran Lakeside Camp. In my off time you can find me outdoors, reading books, rock climbing, or cooking for my friends and family. I can’t wait to start and be a part of this amazing ministry at LLC!
katiedevelopment@lutheranlakeside.com
Development Director
Hello, my name is Dr. Katie O’Regan. I am thrilled to join the team at Lutheran Lakeside Camp as the Director of Developmemt. Before Lakeside, my career in fundraising, non-profit management and community program development, has taken me across the country from New York City to Los Angeles. Before I started on my journey as an adult, I was raised on an Iowa farm with six brothers and no sisters, with parents who valued education, lifelong learning, and going to church on the regular! I still hold my childhood values close to my heart. I have a sweet and charming Corgi named Lacey who brings joy to my life every day, and is quite the ball player. I earned my undergraduate degree from William Penn College, followed by my master’s and doctoral work in Adult Education and mentoring at The University of Wisconsin in Milwaukee. In my spare time, I enjoy film-making, theater, and exploring local coffee shops. I also recently renovated a 1969 D22 Winnebago. I’m excited to work at Lutheran Lakeside Camp because it offers a unique opportunity to combine my passion for Spirit, with the beauty of nature, helping individuals to grow and learn in a supportive community.
Program Manager
Hi! My name is Dalton Bunnell. I am so excited to be a part of Lutheran Lakeside as the Program Manager. I’ve spent 5 years as seasonal staff at Rainbow Trail Lutheran Camp and Sky Ranch and one year as a Program Assistant. I worked as a counselor, a backpack guide in the San Isabel National Forest, and helped design and run retreat programming. I was raised in Oskaloosa, Iowa and attended from Wartburg College to study music education. Similarly to someone else I know, after my first experience at a summer camp, I decided to change my major to religion with a focus in outdoor ministry. My camp experience has shown me how to be grace-filled, open-eared, and passionate about campfires, hiking, community service, and more and I cannot wait to bring all of those things to this wonderful place. When I’m not hiking, I spend my time with my guitar, my dog Nina, my partner Sarah, or my friends online playing video games. I look forward to meeting you!
Property Manager
My name is Tim Blair. I’ve lived in the Spirit Lake area most of my life. I enjoy most outdoor activities like hunting and fishing and am also an avid Denver Broncos fan. My dog Chase is by my side most of the time.
Office Manager
My name is Crystal Enderson. I am the Office Manager here at Lutheran Lakeside Camp.
I am a “local” gal. I grew up in Milford, Iowa and after many years of living away, I have moved back to my home and plan to live here the rest of my life. The Iowa Great Lakes is a beautiful and wonderful place to enjoy. As my uncle used to say “This is God’s country!”
As you can see in my picture, I have 2 dogs; Jazzi and Benji. I am a lover of animals and nature. I have been a foster for rescue animals and volunteered for many other organizations where I can help people and animals in need. I am a caretaker. This is my reason for being – to help others. That is why being part of the ministry and family here at Lutheran Lakeside Camp is a perfect fit for me. I am very excited to be part of Lutheran Lakeside Camp. It is a fabulous place with a lot to offer campers, families, those getting married, and retreats. Did you know we offer nature trails and disc golf for all to use?
I recommend you visit us soon and take advantage of all we have to offer.
Ministry Intern
My name is Hunter Campbell, I grew up in Cambridge, Iowa and graduated from Ballard High School. I have been working at camp for the last four summers as a Cabin Leader, I am excited to have this opportunity to work as a Ministry Intern.
Ministry Intern
Hi, I’m Scott Whitacre! I’ve worked at lakeside for four summers so far. One summer as a cabin leader and the other three as leadership staff. Now I’m getting the amazing opportunity to work at Lutheran Lakeside as the Youth Ministry Intern. I grew up in Estherville, Iowa and graduated from Iowa Lakes Community College. I came to Lakeside right after high school and have returned every summer since. Camp has taught me so much about my faith, giving grace, growing in community, and how to make the perfect s’more! In my free time, I play with a community handbell choir, play the drums for a local church, and I’ve started to learn guitar in preparation for next summer. I’m looking forward to meeting and working with everyone!
