Directors
Sid Friedman, Sean Rekeny, Mike King
Sid Friedman
Pictured With wife Kerry and son Mak
Raised at Camp Tanuga from birth, Sid is the son of the late founder, Bernie Friedman, and has spent his entire life surrounded by the traditions, values, and spirit that make Tanuga so special. Having grown up immersed in camp life, Sid carries a deep understanding of the "Tanuga Magic" and the lasting impact camp has on generations of campers and families.
He is a graduate of Michigan State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology. His lifelong connection to camp, combined with his passion for mentorship, community, and youth development, has made him an integral part of preserving and continuing the Tanuga legacy for future generations.
Sean Rekeny
Pictured with: Benjamin (23), Bodie (3), Drew (21), Zach (19), William (15), Sam (19), Emme (14), Ella (19), Yvonne, Karsyn (4), Sean
Sean is passionate about creating the kind of camp experiences that stay with kids forever. With over 20 years of experience in leadership, camp operations, and mentoring campers, he helps make Camp Tanuga a place where kids feel challenged, supported, and excited to grow in confidence, independence, and friendship.
His wife, Dr. Yvonne Rekeny, is an important part of the Tanuga community as Camp Mom and Camp Physician. Known for her warmth, care, and constant support, Yvonne helps campers and families feel at home while providing trusted medical care throughout the summer. Together, they believe deeply in the lifelong impact camp has on children and families.
Mike King
Pictured with: Allie, Levi (1), Mike, Brooks (3)
Mike brings years of camp leadership experience and a passion for creating the kind of summers kids remember for the rest of their lives. His experience in leadership, program development, and building meaningful connections helps make Camp Tanuga a place where campers feel welcomed, supported, and excited to be part of something special.
As a husband and father of two, Mike cares deeply about creating an environment where kids can unplug, build real friendships, and experience the joy and magic that make camp unforgettable. His wife, Allie, shares his love for positive youth experiences and looks forward to being part of the Tanuga community alongside campers, staff, and families.
Together, our directors bring decades of camping experience to the Tanuga program. Sid, Sean, and Mike are deeply committed to every camper, always keeping their best interests at heart. You'll find them out interacting daily, ensuring that the 'Tanuga Magic' continues to blossom in each camper.
Our leadership team recognizes the importance of honoring Tanuga's rich traditions while also evolving to meet the needs of today's youth. Since 1952, Tanuga has been a special place, and with their dedication, it will continue to thrive for generations to come.
Our Staff
What makes Camp Tanuga so unique is that all of our staff know all of our campers and all of our campers know all of our staff. We call that the Family Feeling.
It is no surprise the staff is the backbone of our program. Expert, caring counselors enhance positive camping experiences. We dedicate the entire off-season to recruiting qualified staff from all over the world.
Prior to campers arriving, all Tanuga staff members participate in a week long, intensive training seminar. During this training period, we instill the Tanuga philosophy, further develop team building skills, broaden camping know-how and prepare our staff for how to work with children on an individual and group basis. At Tanuga, our staff and campers become a close-knit unit.
Tanuga has a completely staffed medical facility including examination and individual care rooms. Trained medical care givers are available at all times with two local hospitals in close proximity to our campgrounds.
Our experienced kitchen staff has received special training in nutrition and food preparations to fulfill the needs of today's active youth.