meetthestaff - Camp Parsons

The Thunderbird you find on the top of the website is the symbol of the Camp Parsons staff. Dating back to the days of the Native inhabitants of the Olympic Peninsula, the Thunderbird has stood as a symbol of a right of passage. Young Natives would venture into the heart of the Olympic Mountains in search of some sign of the Thunderbird to mark their passage into adulthood. The Camp Parsons Staff has adopted the image of the Thunderbird and it adorns the various jackets, sweatshirts, and other formal Staff uniform parts.

The following are the senior staff for Camp Parsons.

Ken McEdwards

Camp Director since 2001. Prior to that time he served as full time Camp Ranger from 1995-2000. Ken is a native of Port Orchard and served for many years on the Camp Brinkley staff as well as camps in Alaska. Ken previously had his own business as a contracter before being employed full time by the Boy Scouts. He has completed Woodbadge and is a Vigil member of the Order of the Arrow. Ken lives at camp with his wife and three children.

Mike McNellis

Dr. McNellis has served on the Camp Parsons staff off and on since 1974. He has worked in a variety of areas in camp including 4 years as Program Director as well as 18 seasons as Assistant Camp Director. He is an Eagle Scout from Troop 171 in North Seattle, a former Scoutmaster, has completed Woodbadge, is a Vigil member of the Order of the Arrow and a recipient of the Silver Beaver Award from the Chief Seattle Council.