Aaron & Ann Selkow
Owners/Directors, Chestnut Lake Camp
Aaron and Ann Selkow grew up just a few miles apart in Philadelphia, spending their childhood summers at different camps in the Pocono Mountains. From those early experiences grew a lifelong love of camp — its friendships, traditions, and impact — that has shaped their lives and careers. Coming to Chestnut Lake Camp as owners/directors in 2020 was, for both, the realization of a dream.
Ann's Journey
Ann began her career as a teacher and coach before shifting into camp leadership, where she quickly distinguished herself as a deeply respected professional in the field. After graduating from Penn State University and earning a master’s degree in education from Saint Joseph’s University, Ann joined Pinemere Camp in 2000. Over more than two decades there, she became a beloved leader, serving in roles that spanned finance, health care, dining services, enrollment, and staff mentorship. Known for her integrity, resourcefulness, and warmth, Ann built relationships with thousands of families while guiding Pinemere’s operations and growth.
Aaron's Journey
After finishing at Connecticut College (where he played intercollegiate sports), Aaron also started in education and coaching before being named director of Pinemere Camp in 1994. Over 14 years, he led the camp — where he had once been a camper — through a period of renewal and growth. Seeking to expand his impact, Aaron then served as Vice President of Program Services at JCC Association and Director of the Merrin Center for Teen Services, where he oversaw the JCC movement’s camps and major programs, including the JCC Maccabi Games.
In 2011, Aaron returned to full-time camp leadership as director of URJ Camp Harlam in Pennsylvania. Later, as Executive Director, he guided the camp through significant growth in enrollment, fundraising, staff culture, and innovation, while also launching new initiatives such as a community day camp and a nationally recognized mental health and wellness program. In 2017, he was appointed to a senior leadership role with the Union for Reform Judaism, where he helped oversee its network of 15 overnight camps and guided them through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Together at Chestnut Lake
Together, Aaron and Ann brought decades of leadership experience to Chestnut Lake, where they continue to grow roots in Beach Lake, PA. Their shared belief in the power of camp to inspire growth and belonging drives everything they do — from supporting staff and families to strengthening programs and traditions.
The Selkows live in the Overbrook Farms neighborhood of Philadelphia with their dog, Pearl. Their daughter, Lily, has spent many summers at camp (including as a staff member at Chestnut Lake in 2024) and is working in Philadelphia while pursuing her career in health care.
