Alum Spotlight

We’re thrilled to announce that this quarter’s Alumni Spotlight features an alum who has truly made an impact in the sustainability and business world since her FLC days , Mary Hearst, a Marketing Director at an eco-friendly toilet paper brand, Who Gives A Crap. We had the opportunity to ask Mary a few questions about her journey and how her experiences at Forest Lake shaped her path.

1. Mary, thank you so much for taking the time to fill out our questions. We know you aren’t living in the Nature Center at camp so where do you call home these days?

For those of you who know me from my camp days, you probably remember how I’d fly up each summer from Miami. Then, every year, I’d save up my babysitting money just to fly back to NYC to visit my camp friends, dreaming of one day living in the city. Well, guess what? Dreams do come true! I’m now living on Roosevelt Island in NYC – a wonderful little community that’s perfect for raising a family while still being in my favorite city!

2. What years did you attend FLC, and what are some of your most vivid memories from your time at camp?

1996-2003

How can I possibly sum up my favorite memories of camp into just a few sentences? It feels impossible because camp was truly everything to me—it shaped who I am in ways I can’t fully put into words.

There are so many memories that will forever hold a special place in my heart but the two biggest ones was being the one to lead Bali Bali at campfire, and being recognized as the heart of FLC.

But the best memory I have is far beyond my days as a camper or counselor—was hosting my wedding at FLC. That weekend was beyond anything I could have imagined—surrounded by friends, family, and the place that had shaped my life.

3. What were your favorite camp activities? Were there any particular experiences or challenges at camp that influenced your personal growth?

Forest Lake Camp was such a gift to me. It was the kind of place where I could just be me—the full-of-life Mary Hearst that you all know. A place where singing at the top of my lungs and being totally enthusiastic about life wasn’t just allowed, it was celebrated! It gave me the space to fully embrace who I am, and I’ll always be grateful for that.

4. Looking back, which counselors or mentors at FLC had the biggest impact on you, and why? How did they influence your development?

Putting me on the spot… it’s hard to narrow it down, because so many people at camp helped shape who I am today. But if I had to pick one person who had the most profound impact on me, it would be Gary Confer. Gary created an environment that truly supported kids like me, making sure we felt safe, valued, and, most importantly, that we could just be ourselves. He had this incredible ability to ensure that every single kid was taken care of, having fun, and thriving.

5. From your time at FLC, what values did you learn that you have carried with you into your adult life, both personally and professionally?

What I’ve learned most, and what I carry with me into my life and career, is that friendships and partnerships truly matter. At the end of the day, it’s the connections we make with others that shape our world, and the more we invest in those relationships, the richer life becomes. Camp taught me how to nurture and foster these relationships, and that’s a lesson that’s imperative in every stage of life. It’s the foundation of everything—whether it’s personal or professional—and I’m so grateful for the friendships and bonds I formed there.

7. Outside of your professional life, what are your interests/hobbies?

Well, I’m a mom to two little future FLC’ers (Michael & William), so most of my time outside of work is spent chasing after them! That said, I always make sure to carve out some time each month for a little culture—whether it’s catching a show or hitting up a museum. But honestly, my favorite thing is just being a mom to my two little guys and hanging out with them at the playground. They keep me busy, but they’re totally worth it!

8. Now for the most important question . . . Green or White?

GO WHITE TEAM!