VBYC’s Executive Director

Hello, my name is Becky Pasman, the Executive Director of Van Buren Youth Camp. I was drawn to camp in 2001 by our daughter Emily. She began attending camp as a leadership camper and quickly fell under its magical spell. In true Emily spirit, she brought our entire family to camp. Volunteering my husband and I to serve on the Board of Directors and pulling her brother out as a counselor and later staff member. Since that summer, our entire family has been involved in keeping the spirit of camp alive.

My life has actually revolved around young people since the early 1970’s. As a young adult, I spent my summers working as a counselor at a Michigan youth camp. This was only the beginning of a very fulfilling incomplete life journey as an educator, community volunteer, and mother.

I’ve received a bachelors and masters degree in Education from Western Michigan University. Upon completion of my bachelors, I was hired by Paw Paw Public Schools and have spent twent-nine years there teaching and mentoring young people from ages 6 to 14.

Teaching was always about more than just the subjects and lectures; it is about making connections with students. I frequently told my students, “Life isn’t about the road map, it’s about the journey!” A journey is always more exciting when you take the unexpected turns. In 2006, I retired from teaching, but I'm far from idle. I've remained involved in science education, worked with American Camp Association, traveled, and volunteered with community youth organizations.

It is an honor to serve as the executive director for an organization which instills leadership, self-esteem, personal growth and a love of nature in today’s youth. I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to share my leadership skills, creativity, love of youth, and respect for nature with VBYC staff and campers.