Our Directors

Ashton Ryan- "Ash"

Summer Camp Programs Director

I am originally from Perth, Australia where I grew up enjoying all that Aus. has to offer... the beautiful beaches, scenic landscapes, cuddly koalas, and yes, all those highly deadly and dangerous critters! I have been a great outdoor enthusiast my entire life, involved in such activities as hiking/camping, swimming, and gymnastics. After graduating high school, I knew I wanted to travel before starting college, which led me to apply as an International Camp Counselor at CCUSA. So in the year of 1997, I was accepted as part of the Horse Staff, at yes, you guessed it...Camp Tamarack! I enjoyed the experience so much that I returned again in 2007 as the Health Center Director.

I began my academic study at Australian Institute of Fitness, and obtained a certification as a Master Personal Trainer. I spent the next 10 years living and working abroad, in-between continuing studies at College. I've traveled extensively throughout the U.S., Canada, England, Malaysia, Thailand and New Zealand. The majority of my years have been working as a Wilderness Field Instructor for at-risk youth in an outdoor recreation setting. I did take a position as a Veterinary Assistant for about 7 months... however I decided that my passion to inspire greatness in youth held a much stronger desire (I still LOVE animals though!)

I've completed extensive training and certifications in child abuse prevention, behavior management techniques, specific procedures for supervision, safety regulations and emergency procedures, understanding adolescents and adolescent transitional periods. I also hold a current Wilderness First Responder and Avalanche 1 Certification, and hold a membership with the Cascades Mountaineers Club.

During the off season, I work part-time as a Facilitator for Mary's Place - a supervised visitation center for children. I enjoy volunteering any free time as a Hospital Responder for Saving Grace, as a Child's Advocate at the Women's Shelter and as a Forest Service Volunteer.

My approach to working with children lends itself to positive re-enforcement and assertive role-modeling. I strive to ensure that children enjoy the most out of life, gaining valuable life experiences and learning in a fun, nurturing environment.


Hannah Turner

Assistant Director

I am from Bend, Oregon, and was one of the original founders of Summit High School’s Equestrian team. I was an avid camper at Camp Tamarack for 7 years. I then transitioned into the C.I.T program for two years, followed by the position as junior counselor, assistant director of the corral, and now the Assistant Director for 2009!

I am a student at the University of Oregon, studying history, political science and studio art. When I’m not studying, I’m practicing the banjo, baking vegan treats, or working on various crafts. Black and White Photography has also become a source of great enjoyment. I spend many hours in the dark room, processing photos, creating photographs that invoke a feeling of nostalgia.

I am an enthusiastic traveler. I studied abroad in NSW Australia, and also in Barcelona, where I spent most of my time traveling around on rollerblades, practicing my Spanish with the locals. I have also lived in Massachusetts, and spent last summer living in a yurt on the Big Island of Hawaii, camping out and living off the produce we picked.

My approach to campers is one of caring enthusiasm. I love getting to know as many campers as possible and engaging in group activities. It’s rewarding to watch the kids develop new skills and confidence. Camp Tamarack definitely has a positive impact on my life, and I still remain good friends with many of the girls from my cabins over the years. I have so many amazing memories, and look forward to continuing this tradition!



Heather Tyrrell

Horse Program Director

I am originally from the Portland Oregon area and graduated from Oregon State with a BS in Human Development and Family Sciences and a minor in Equine Science. During my college years I worked at the OSU Horse Center, teaching lessons from beginning to advanced, and eventually taking on the job as Assistant Director. Since my college years I have developed and managed different large-scale, able-bodied and therapeutic riding stables around the Pacific Northwest.

My passion is teaching, and I have undergone several different instructor-certification clinics. I currently hold an instructor-certification for NARHA and am First-Aid and CPR certified. I have ridden with and competed under many top trainers throughout the years in riding disciplines ranging from English Hunter/Jumpers, Dressage, and Eventing, to competitive Western Pleasure and Reining.

I was on the horse staff at Camp Tamarack in 2000 and am thrilled to be back! My husband and I are looking forward to raising our toddler daughter within the Camp Tamarack "family", and we couldn't ask for a better experience!

I carry a great combination of horse and management skills as well as a passion for mentoring children and youth. I encourage students to see the fun and rewarding side of horses even while working hard, and I strive to give each student a strong foundation in riding so each one can grow and learn in a way that raises their confidence and self-esteem while giving them a sense of accomplishment.

Happy Riding!