Niels Damman
Facilitator
Niels showed up to summer camp in 1998 and never left (and we’re so glad he stayed!).
Since then, Niels has facilitated experiences for thousands of participants, trained hundreds of facilitators, and brought play, depth, and music into everything he does.
Niels is all about thoughtful connection, shared laughter, and board games that (sometimes) get way too competitive.
Q. Camp name?
I started with Dutchie, then went by Four, and am now, and have been for years, Loki (god of mischief).
Q. What would you do on a YES day?
So many options. My favorite memories include sitting on a beach in Thailand all day, drinking pitchers of rum-coke, and an adventure day including rappelling and blackwater rafting in New Zealand.
Q. What is the scariest thing you’ve ever done?
I’ve been to war.
Q. What did you study in school?
I got an Associates of Arts, A bachelors of science in environmental science, then studies hydrology, then environmental education, then international education, and finally got a masters in sport and recreation management.
Q. What are you known for at GutMonkey?
That’s not a question for me, silly!
Q. Best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Don’t join the army. (I didn’t listen)
Q. Guilty pleasure movie or show?
House.
Q. Current favorite thing ever?
My family: Jasper (12), Liesanna (15) and Erin, but I’m afraid to ask her her age.