Staff Biographies

Pamela Swanson, Executive Director of Lions Camp Tatiyee graduated from Arizona State University with a degree in Special Education and minors in both Human Development and Family Studies. She taught in Tempe Elementary School District for 10 years as a Special Educator.  In 1995, she earned a Masters degree in Administration Supervision from the University of Phoenix. She has been the Executive Director of Lions Camp Tatiyee since 1996.

Pam is also a board member for the American Camp Association’s Southwest Region.

On a personal note, Pam began her career at Lions Camp Tatiyee as a camp counselor in 1984! She met her husband at the camp in 1985 and has been married since 1987. They have 3 beautiful children together who have been blessed with the opportunity of growing up at camp.

Lions Camp Tatiyee is Pam’s favorite place, because those who experience it become better than they are. It is a place of  joy, courage and faith that moves mountains.

Desirae Bender, RN BSN, is our Lead Nurse. A BSN graduate of Grand Canyon University, Desirae grew up in the White Mountains area surrounding camp and has a passion for working with kids and special-needs individuals. Desirae has been involved with Special Olympics, Big Brothers Big Sisters, 4-H, and various other organizations. During the year, Desirae works as a school nurse for the Roosevelt School District in Phoenix, AZ. She enjoys music, the outdoors, reading, and spending time with friends and family, but most of all, camp!