Meet 2026 Happening Woman Brianne Feinour

What began as a passion for working with children has evolved into a leadership role as Executive Camp Director of Camp NAC, where she now influences the experiences of thousands of children, families, and staff each year. Under Brianne’s leadership, Camp NAC has continued to grow as a premier day camp experience, known for its strong focus on safety, community, and child development. She has played a key role in shaping a program that not only delivers a high-quality summer experience, but also serves as a year-round support system for families, creating a true sense of belonging that extends far beyond the camp season.

Brianne’s impact extends well beyond her own organization. Through her involvement with the American Camp Association, she contributes to the advancement of the camp industry through writing, leadership development, and mentorship of emerging professionals. She is passionate about developing the next generation of leaders with an emphasis on connection, emotional intelligence, and sustainable growth within the camp community. In addition to her work in the camp space, Brianne is involved with Tru Healing, where she is able to support individuals on a more personal level, further reflecting her commitment to well-being, connection, and growth. Throughout her career, Brianne has been recognized for both her leadership and her impact, including multiple regional awards recognizing Camp NAC as a leading day camp, as well as honors from the American Camp Association Keystone for her contributions to the industry. While these recognitions are meaningful, her greatest pride comes from the lasting impact she has on the individuals and communities she serves.

What has inspired you to pursue your current career and/or passions?

I always thought I would become a teacher because I knew I wanted to make a meaningful impact on children’s lives. What ultimately shaped my path was realizing that my impact didn’t have to be limited to a single classroom. Through camp, I have the opportunity to reach hundreds of staff and thousands of children and families each summer, creating an environment where kids feel safe, supported, and confident to be themselves. Being able to build that kind of community, while shaping experiences in real time, is what continues to fuel my passion every day.

Can you share a defining moment in your career or life that shaped your path?

A defining moment for me was recognizing that my work at camp wasn’t just seasonal, it’s where lasting growth happens. Seeing firsthand how deeply our environment impacts a child’s confidence, friendships, and sense of belonging shifted my perspective entirely. It pushed me to think bigger: not just about running a program, but about building a community and developing future leaders. That mindset has since expanded into my involvement with the American Camp Association and other initiatives, where I’m able to influence the camp experience on a broader scale.

How do you define success?

I define success by impact. It’s not just about numbers or growth, it’s about the lives you touch along the way. Success is seeing a camper gain confidence, a staff member step into leadership, or a family feel truly supported. It’s also about alignment, feeling connected to the work you’re doing and knowing it reflects your values and purpose.

What values guide your personal and professional decisions?

Connection, integrity, and intention guide everything I do. I believe in leading with empathy, creating spaces where people feel seen and supported, and making decisions that are thoughtful and purpose-driven. I also value growth, both personally and for those around me, and strive to create environments where people feel empowered to learn, take risks, and evolve.

What are you most proud of today?

I’m most proud of the impact I’ve been able to make beyond just one organization. While building and evolving camp has been incredibly meaningful, I’m especially proud that I now have the opportunity to influence the broader camp community through my work with the American Camp Association, as well as support individuals through my involvement with Tru Healing. Being able to extend that impact and touch lives in multiple ways is something I don’t take for granted.

What does leadership mean to you and how do you embody it in your work?

To me, leadership is about creating an environment where others can thrive. It’s not about having all the answers, it’s about listening, guiding, and empowering people to step into their potential. I embody this by leading with authenticity, encouraging open communication, and modeling the behaviors I hope to see in others. Whether it’s mentoring staff, supporting families, or building programs, my goal is always to lead in a way that inspires confidence, trust, and growth.