Meet the Leaders of Circle F Dude Ranch

Fischbach Family

Camp Owners

In 1952, George and Catheryn Fischbach laid the foundation for Circle F Dude Ranch Camp, crafting one of Florida’s pioneering overnight camps from the ground up. Their dedication and vision propelled it to national recognition and accreditation.

Through the decades, Circle F has remained a cherished legacy within the Fischbach family. In 2024, the mantle of daily ownership was passed to Reed and Keely, the grandchildren of George and Catheryn. With the unwavering support and mentorship of their father, Dr. Dale Fischbach, son of the founders, Reed and Keely embarked on the journey of stewarding the ranch’s future.

Together with the entire Fischbach family, Reed and Keely provide daily vision and guidance to our camp leadership team, ensuring that Circle F remains steadfast in its mission and ethos.

Ben Moss

Camp Director

Ben joined the Circle F Family in the summer of 2011. Ben is the Camp Director and brings over 25 years of experience in youth development and camp management to Circle F Dude Ranch. He graduated from Southern Illinois University with a degree in interpersonal communication and public relations. Originally from the Midwest, he worked as a nationally registered Paramedic in St. Louis, MO, before moving to Florida. His experience and passion for youth development in the outdoors helped spark the creation of Circle F Dude Ranch Camp Outdoor Education Program in 2012 and has led it to become one of the best outdoor education centers in Florida.

Ben’s daughter Amelia attends Circle F’s summer camp each summer. Ben has love long-distance running with multiple 5k, 10k, half, and full marathons completed in his free-time.

Kris Canchon

Assistant Director - Family Relations

Bilingual — English & Español

Kris joined the Circle F Family in the summer of 2005. He holds a degree in business administration and marketing from Warner University. Over his time at the Ranch, Kris has worked as a cabin counselor and head of general sports, which lead him to his current role as Assistant Director. He plays an integral part in the summer camps’ day-to-day operations supporting campers, staff, and camp families. Kris loves movies, basketball, trivia and sports overall in his free time.

Colleen Carragher

Assistant Director - Camp Operations

Colleen joined the Circle F Family in the summer of 2014. Colleen graduated from Ulster University with a degree in property investment. Over the years her focus has shifted to early childhood development. Joining the team from her home in Ireland, Colleen has worked as the Head of Arts, an outdoor educator, and Girls Line Head Counselor, before becoming an Assistant Director. She has a love for art, design, and dance in her free time.

Alex O’Brien

Digital Media Coordinator

Alex joined the Circle F Family in 2007.Alex focuses on the Camp’s social media and documenting the summer camp experience through photos and video. Alex has worked as a cabin counselor, full-time outdoor educator, and Head of Extreme sports, before taking on his current role. Alex has a love of film, photography, and skateboarding in his free time.

Hailey Horton

Camp Administrative Assistant

Hailey joined the Circle F Family in 2021 as a cabin counselor after spending five years as a camper. She later took on the role of summer program coordinator and now works remotely from Vermont in an administrative capacity. Hailey holds a degree in Mass Communications and Hospitality from the College of Charleston. Her daily responsibilities include supporting the camp directors, coordinating with private groups and schools, and serving as one of camp’s parent concierge. When not working at camp Hailey likes to explore thrift shops and take hikes in the Vermont mountains where she is based.

Blanca Greene

Camp Office Manager

Blanca joined the Circle F Family in 2014 as a Camper Parent and, after eight rewarding years in that role, transitioned to full-time Camp Office Manager. She brings a wealth of experience in administrative management, accounting, and property management—and, most importantly, the unique insight of being a camp mom. In her role, Blanca provides essential administrative support to the camp directors, manages projects, coordinates with camp staff, and serves as one of the camp’s parent concierges. She is also the proud mother of Katie and Myles, both of whom have experienced camp firsthand. Blanca is especially excited to see Myles embark on his first summer on staff this year. When not working on camp projects Blanca can be found gardening, Antiquing, or traveling.

Taylor Malady

Barn Manager

Taylor joined the Circle F Family in 2014 as a Wrangler and became Barn Manager in 2016. Horses have been a part of her life since childhood—she started as an eventer before transitioning to barrel racing in her teens. From ages 11 to 17, she was actively involved in FFA, showing horses, cattle, and hogs. As Barn Manager, Taylor oversees the care of all the horses, leads group rides with guests, maintains the barn and trails, and teaches campers the joy of horseback riding while fostering meaningful connections. In her free time, she enjoys reading, hiking with her dog, and riding her motorcycle.

Steven Penn

Outdoor Education Program Manager

Since joining Circle F Dude Ranch Camp in 2018, Steven has grown from cabin counselor to Outdoor Education Program Manager, previously serving in key roles such as Head of General Sports, Head of Climbing, and Program Coordinator. With a strong background in hospitality and a passion for youth development, he brings a dynamic, leadership-driven approach to creating meaningful outdoor experiences. Steven is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s in Political Science, further enhancing his expertise in leadership and organizational development. His passion for outdoor education and youth development continues to drive his commitment to creating impactful and memorable experiences at Circle F Dude Ranch.

Austin Carbonell

Summer Program Manager

Austin has been a part of the Circle F Dude Ranch Camp family for over a decade. Starting as a camper from 2009 to 2014, he developed a strong connection to the camp’s community and values. In 2017 and 2018, he returned as a general cabin counselor, focusing on providing a positive and supportive experience for campers. In 2019, Austin transitioned to the role of Head of General Sports, leading athletic activities and promoting teamwork among campers. From 2020 to 2022, he served as Head of Waterfront, ensuring that all water activities were safe, enjoyable, and memorable. Now, as Summer Program Manager, Austin is dedicated to creating safe, engaging activities that offer meaningful experiences for campers. With years of experience in various roles, he brings a deep understanding of the camp’s culture and a passion for providing high-quality programs that promote fun, personal growth, and lasting memories.

Nik Schmidt

Enrollment Specialist

Nik Schmidt, has been part of the Circle F family since 2005, starting as a camper at age 7. Over the years, he progressed from L.I.T. to general counselor, eventually becoming the Head of General Sports. After five years away, he returned in 2024 as the Upper Boys Head Counselor and now serves as our Enrollment Specialist, helping new families connect with the Circle F experience. Outside of camp, Nik is the founder of ReTees, a company creating the world’s first golf tee made from recycled litter—born from his passion for golf and sustainability. When he’s not supporting families or making golf tees, you’ll find him on the golf course, at the gym, or cooking something new in the kitchen.