Hannah Cote Named Assistant Director

On behalf of Wanakee’s Board of Directors, I am thrilled to announce that Hannah Cote has been selected as Wanakee’s Assistant Director. She will start her new position on January 22, 2018.

Hannah has been associated with Wanakee since 2007 as a camper, counselor, and most recently, our Program Director. In this role, Hannah managed our counseling staff, supported and engaged our incredible volunteers, and made sure each day ran smoothly.

Hannah graduated from Fitchburg State University with a BS in Interdisciplinary Studies and minors in Special Education and History. During her time at Fitchburg, she served as president of her sorority, worked at a dance studio, and was a tour guide. Hannah is an active member of St. James UMC in Merrimack, where she has participated in mission trips and currently teaches Sunday School.

When asked about working with Hannah last summer, longtime volunteer Kiki Sylvester shared “[Hannah] was easy to work with, answered all my questions quickly, and was thoughtful and organized.” In her new year-round position, Hannah will be the primary point person for our retreat and rental programs, work closely with our volunteers, manage day-to-day office operations, and support development of our summer program. Hannah will also re-join our summer team in a leadership role similar to Program Director.

I look forward to the gifts that Hannah will bring to Wanakee, especially her organizational skills, leadership, analytical mindset, and commitment to the Wanakee experience.

"At camp, kids can make their own choices. There is so much pressure put on kids today, but at camp, that all disappears,” Hannah said. “Camp is about having fun, while also learning about perseverance, teamwork, communication, and other critical life skills. I am passionate about helping kids become more confident in themselves and their abilities, and know that Wanakee is the perfect place for that to happen.”

Hannah went on to share "Wanakee is the place where I have always felt most connected to my faith. It is a place where unconditional love and acceptance are the expectation and not the exception, which is not common today. I am overjoyed that I am able to continue to be part of this incredible environment in which every camper is valued for who they are and what they are capable of.”

Please join me in welcoming Hannah to her new role!

Grace and Peace,

James Tresner
Executive Director