Keynotes
Each Tri-State CAMP Conference kicks off with a thought-provoking opening keynote speaker and concludes with an inspiring closing keynote speaker. These preeminent keynotes are intentionally selected by our Tri-State committee to help camp professionals reframe their thinking, offer a new perspective and invigorate attendees before heading off to camp.
March 10-12, 2026
Atlantic City, New Jersey
Danny Meyer
CEO, Union Square Hospitality Group
Keynotes
Don’t Miss Top Tier Keynote Speakers
Katie Sowers
American Football Coach
Opening Keynote: Tuesday, March 11
David Brooks
The Moral Education of Summer Camp: Building Character in a Fragmented Society
David Brooks draws on his personal experiences at the Episcopal Camp to illustrate how summer camps foster meaningful moral formation for our kids. He explores how camps push kids beyond their comfort zones, helps them to form deep bonds with others from different backgrounds, and allows them to learn to lead with empathy, self-discipline, and resilience –
All without the pressure to perform for grades or awards. Pulling from his Character Building Tool Kit, he explores the significance of things like community service and moral skill-building learned in camp settings and how they are deeply tied to the larger need for moral formation in today’s society and are crucial for nurturing the next generation of citizens who understand that “who you become” is more important than what you achieve.
Closing Keynote: Thursday, March 13
Dominique Dawes
Success is a Journey, Not a Destination
Dominique Dawes won Olympic gold. But, for her, success is so much more than medals and accolades: it’s something she worked hard to achieve everyday en route to Olympic glory. Her journey in the sport of gymnastics lasted 18 years and in those years she stood strong on numerous podiums–leaving lasting impressions in the hearts of fans. The podium was the destination, the long term goal, however, it’s the moments in between she calls the “journey” that helped her realize the success that she was always striving for. Overcoming the inevitable obstacles, challenges and doubts are the moments in the journey that build the champion in Dawes. Surrounding herself with the right team, developing the mindset to persevere and turning negative situations into life lessons is how Dawes realized Success is a Journey, NOT a Destination
Past Keynotes
