The Rice Family - The Heart of Echo Hill Camp Tradition
For over a century, Echo Hill has stood as a beloved family tradition, handed down through generations. Rooted in a profound love for the outdoors and a steadfast commitment to youth development and education for nearly 60 years, the Rice family has been instrumental in shaping every facet of Echo Hill’s offerings. Their dedication ensures that children not only forge deep connections with nature but also form enduring bonds with each other, crafting summers filled with unforgettable memories that last a lifetime.
In 2024, Echo Hill Camp proudly entered its third generation under the stewardship of the Rice family. Katie, the eldest daughter, took the helm alongside her siblings, Julie and Petey III, who contribute in part-time capacities. Meanwhile, Peter P. Rice Jr., now assuming the role of Director Emeritus/Owner, looks on with pride as the family’s camping legacy flourishes, upheld with the same spirit, joy, and dedication to excellence that defines the Rice name.
Peter P. Rice, Jr.
Owner and Director Emeritus
In 1970, Peter Rice Jr. assumed ownership of Echo Hill Camp from his parents. In 1972, he established a non-profit organization, the Echo Hill Outdoor School, which has co-existed on the property as a separate entity, giving hundreds more children the opportunity to learn from the land. Peter and his wife, Libby, who originally met at the camp, have since transformed Echo Hill into a cherished haven for hundreds of thousands of individuals. As a steadfast advisor, Libby contributes her wisdom, and medical professional experience, and serves as a source of strength and guidance ensuring the continued success and growth of Echo Hill.
Peter P. Rice Jr., stands as a pillar of the camp's rich heritage. With over 60 years of experience and an unwavering dedication to outdoor education, Peter has devoted his life to advancing Echo Hill's mission and core values. In his role as Director Emeritus, he offers invaluable guidance and support, drawing upon his profound knowledge and deep affection for the camp. While fully retired, Peter's visionary leadership and steadfast commitment continue to inspire both staff and campers, leaving an enduring legacy within the Echo Hill community.
Katie Rice Moulsdale
Executive Director of Echo Hill Camp
As the Executive Director, Katie embodies the very essence of the Echo Hill dream. Having spent her entire life immersed in the camp environment, Katie brings a wealth of experience and passion to her role. From her early days as a camper to her tenure as a counselor, Head of Side, Personnel Director, Assistant Director, and Associate Director, Katie's journey has been deeply intertwined with Echo Hill. A graduate of Guilford College with degrees in Business Administration and Sociology, Katie initially ventured into coaching women's lacrosse at the collegiate level before returning to her roots. Her years of dedication to the family business have culminated in her current position, following in her father's footsteps as the Executive Director of Echo Hill Camp.
Peter P. Rice, III - "Petey"
Executive Director of Echo Hill Outdoor School
Campus Operations
Peter P. Rice III, affectionately known as Petey, has recently been appointed as the Executive Director of Echo Hill Outdoor School, a non-profit organization dedicated to environmental education founded by his father in 1972. Continuing his father's legacy, Petey will uphold the school's mission of teaching through immersive experiences in the Chesapeake environment. In addition to this new position, Petey will maintain his role as a trusted advisor to the Camp in addition to overseeing the physical property for both organizations.
Zachary Cruz - "Zach"
Associate Director
As a second-generation camper, Zach began his Echo Hill journey in 2005. After enjoying five remarkable summers as a camper, he transitioned into a Junior Counselor role in 2010. Throughout the years, Zach has held various leadership positions at camp, including Head of Side, Waterfront Director, and Assistant Director, before assuming a year-round position in the Fall of 2022.
Following the completion of his Psychology degree from Appalachian State University, Zach embarked on a series of seasonal occupations, including Innkeeping in Vermont, Vineyard Machine Operating in New Zealand, and Alpine Ski Instructing in Colorado. Throughout these diverse experiences, Zach consistently returned each summer to work at Echo Hill, grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a special community and to create meaningful, transformative experiences for campers and staff alike.
In his capacity as Associate Director at Echo Hill Camp, Zach collaborates with the directors to develop and implement innovative programming that aligns with the camp's mission and values. His unwavering dedication ensures that every camper has a transformative and unforgettable experience, leaving a lasting impact for years to come. With his expertise and passion, Zach continues to uphold the rich tradition of excellence at Echo Hill Camp.
Annelieke Walbert
Business Manager and Registrar
A native of Holland, Annelieke arrived in 1991 and was immediately enchanted by camp magic, drawing her back year after year. In 2000, she decided to relocate permanently to the USA, dedicating herself wholeheartedly to Echo Hill Camp. Over the years, Annelieke has held various roles, transitioning from a general counselor to various Activity Director positions, eventually settling into the role of Associate Director for a substantial period of time.
Currently, Annelieke serves as the Business Manager and Registrar at Echo Hill Camp. In this dual role, she oversees financial operations and manages camper registrations. Annelieke works closely with camp families to address any questions or concerns they may have regarding camper life, registration, or financial matters.
Julia Rice Blyman - "Julie"
Waterfront Operations
Julie, second born to Peter and Libby, is an integral part of the family camp business. She embodies the very essence of an educator and has dedicated her life to teaching young people in various settings, whether in the classroom, on the sports field, or on the Bay. Coming from a family with a strong tradition of education, she continues this legacy by pursuing her career in teaching. Currently, Julie serves as the Co-Founder and Associate Director of Open Doors Partners in Education, a non-profit organization committed to "improving literacy among struggling readers through tutoring and educational enrichment programs.” Within the camp, Julie takes on multiple roles, with a primary focus on waterfront activities. With decades of experience across all aspects of Echo Hill's waterfront operations, including roles such as Sailing Director, Waterski Director, and Waterfront Director, she now oversees all activities and staff on the waterfront. As an American Red Cross Lifeguard Instructor, Waterfront Manager, and Boat Driver Instructor, Julie ensures that the waterfront staff is well-trained and prepared for their responsibilities.
Chef Cheryl Torres
Head Chef / Kitchen Manager
Ms. Cheryl is our camp chef, and her love for cooking runs deep. Following in the footsteps of her mother, Miss Honey—a beloved Echo Hill chef—Cheryl grew up immersed in the flavors and traditions of Echo Hill. She has since developed her own distinctive approach in the kitchen, blending classic favorites with creative flair. Since joining our team full-time in 2025, she has quickly become the heart of our culinary operations, making every meal both memorable and meaningful. Echo Hill is widely celebrated for its food, and Cheryl is a big part of why.
Kiersten Henry, DNP, APRN-BC, ACNP, CCNS, CCRN-CMC
Health Care Director
Kiersten has been part of the Echo Hill Camp family since childhood. Growing up, she spent summers at the camp where her mother served as our nurse. Kiersten fondly remembers her time as a camper and counselor, making lifelong friends and developing a deep appreciation for Echo Hill.
Following in her mother's footsteps, Kiersten joined the camp staff as a nurse. Currently, as the Healthcare Director, she oversees all aspects of medical care and health management. Her extensive experience and steadfast leadership ensure the highest standards of healthcare, allowing the Echo Hill community to focus on creating cherished memories. Alongside her role at Echo Hill, Kiersten is the Chief Advanced Practice Clinician at MedStar Montgomery Medical Center with a passion for critical care, disaster medicine, and supporting healthy work environments. As the saying goes, "not all heroes wear capes", this undoubtedly applies to our very own Nurse Kiersten.
As a second-generation "Camp Nurse," Kiersten takes immense pride in carrying on her family's legacy while contributing to the transformative experiences that shape young lives each year. To her, Echo Hill Camp is a summer home filled with traditions, camaraderie, and personal growth.
Edward Heyman - "Ned"
Senior Assistant Director
Ned joined the Echo Hill family in 2011, at age nine, and has returned every summer for over 15 years. In 2019, he joined the staff as a Junior Counselor, and has also served as a Head of Side and Sailing Director. Today, Ned is Echo Hill’s Senior Assistant Director. In this role, he ensures the smooth daily operation of Echo Hill’s programming, and collaborates with the directors to address both long-term and pressing challenges.
Outside of camp, Ned holds a BA in Political Science from The George Washington University and has worked at a K Street lobbying firm, as a ski instructor, and as a teacher at Echo Hill Outdoor School. Throughout all of these experiences, he has found that his summers at Echo Hill have been the most rewarding and provided him with the greatest personal growth.
Ned is passionate about the camp experience and works closely with the staff to preserve the Echo Hill experience for every camper. He believes strongly in the transformative power an Echo Hill summer can have on a child, and is dedicated to preserving “camp magic” for years to come.