Program Team

Sara grew up in NY state and currently resides very close to camp in Pittsboro with her family. Aside from all things outdoors and camp Sara loves to cook, craft, laugh and spend time with her family (partner, 3 kids, 2 dogs, 4 chickens). She has worked at Camp Royall since 1997 in just about every job that camp has to offer, and it is her favorite place in the universe. Her favorite camp activities are singing camp songs at the shady circle and riding the hayride. Sara loves Camp Royall because it is full of enthusiasm and magic. She loves that memories are made and lives are changed at Camp Royall and she takes pride in our commitment to welcoming and accepting everyone just as they are.

Contact Sara: sgage@autismsociety-nc.org

MaKia was born and raised in North Carolina and although she is from Greensboro, she currently calls Pittsboro her home. When she is not at camp, you can find her crafting or enjoying an activity in nature. MaKia’s love for helping and supporting others and for being outdoors is what lead her to Camp Royall in 2018. When you’re at Camp, you are sure to find her singing and laughing in Music and Motion. At Camp Royall they show everyone love, support, and acceptance, and this is why it is her favorite place on Earth.

Contact MaKia: maikens@autismsociety-nc.org

Originally from upstate South Carolina, Maddy made the move to North Carolina three years ago to kickstart her career as a speech-language pathologist, specializing in pediatric clinical and school settings. Since 2018, Maddy has found a second home at Camp Royall, where she passionately engages in activities that foster connection and community. Her favorite activity includes roasting marshmallows around the campfire, to a perfect golden brown of course. In her downtime, she enjoys reading, creating art, and spending time with friends. Her goal at camp is to continue fostering communication and connections for all staff and campers so that everyone as access to communication in a safe and accepting environment.

Contact Maddy: mwebber@autismsociety-nc.org

Ashton is a NC native who grew up down the road in Carrboro, NC. He came to work at Camp Royall in 2023, where he finally found his home in Sanford with his partner and multitude of cats. On weekends, Ashton enjoys volunteering with local theatres and stretching his sewing skills in new and challenging ways. He loves the joy that Camp Royall brings to the community and is excited to be a part of such a wonderful group of people.

Contact Ashton: aanderson@autismsociety-nc.org

Em grew up in Central FL, and after enjoying a few years performing improv comedy in NYC, settled in North Carolina where they worked in the local food scene. They live in Downtown Durham with their two dogs and 137 plants. When not working, Em enjoys canoeing and making elaborate meals with their partner. They are so excited to be part of the Camp Royal team. Their favorite camp activities include serving tasty meals to all the wonderful folks at camp, and helping to keep camp a beautiful place for everyone to enjoy.

Contact Em: ehelm@autismsociety-nc.org

Born in the picturesque town of Sarasota, Bill spent the early years of his life surrounded by the coastal beauty of Florida. However, it was in Rockingham County, NC that he truly grew up and found his passion for education. After earning a degree in English with a focus on education from North Carolina State University, Bill dedicated three years to teaching. However, it wasn’t until he stumbled upon the world of outdoor education programs and camps that he discovered his true calling. For the past eight years, Bill has been at the helm of various outdoor programs, fostering a love for nature and adventure in those he guides. Recently, Bill has decided to pivot towards a new direction in their career, focusing on the behind-the-scenes aspects of outdoor education by ensuring the smooth operation of facilities. Beyond the professional sphere, Bill is a multifaceted individual with a wide array of interests. His free time is filled with diverse activities, ranging from the tranquility of fishing and the thrill of hunting to the exploration of foraging. Bill also enjoys the immersive worlds of tabletop and video games, finding joy and relaxation in the digital and imaginative realms.

Contact Bill: bstahura@autismsociety-nc.org