Jen Van Antwerp

Customer Service Manager

Many times, it is Jen you talk to when you call the Kidventure office. In addition to assisting with questions about Kidventure, Jen helps keep the Houston office organized and ready for camp. This past summer Jen was the recipient of the ‘Kidventure Way’ Award. Within our company the award is honored and is given to one team member for hard work, dedication and the embodiment of the Kidventure Spirit. When Jen isn’t at Kidventure she is studying at University of Houston for her Public Relations degree.

Rachel Plympton

Director Special Programs

Rachel is a graduate of Texas State University with a BS in Sociology. She is continuing her education at the University of Houston to receive her Master’s in Social Work, with an emphasis on leadership, administration and advocacy. Rachel heads up Kidventure’s Afterschool Camp called Finale and the various special events Kidventure does throughout the year. She brings tons of enthusiasm and experience to our year-round programs. When she is not at the schools or planning events she enjoys spending time with her friends, family and husband Chase.

Mike McDonell

Owner/President

Graduate of the University of Arizona, Mike began Kidventure in 1994. Mike is the father of three of his own campers (Hadley, Peyton and MacKenna) and married to Peggy. He personally spearheaded Kidventure’s expansion to Austin in 2008. Mike serves on several boards including the Epilepsy Foundation of Texas, loves the outdoors, running, biking, climbing, and is considered the oldest camper at Kidventure.

“In 2009 we will celebrate our 15th year of the Kidventure Way and never has camp been so important to our kids. Given the opportnity, camp gives kids the chance to grow strong, garner a new sense of confidence, and create positive relationships that will stay with them for the rest of their lives.”

Peggy McDonell

Owner/Consultant

Peggy is a Graduate of the University of St. Thomas with a degree in Education with Certification in Elementary and Special Education. As the Camp King’s favorite wife Peggy is involved in the KV Curriculum, Site Management, and Planning of Special Events. Peggy stays busy with her three kids (four including Mike). Her favorite thing to do is hang out with her family and friends.

Katie Novosad

Business Director

Katie is a graduate of Texas A&M University with a BBA in Information & Operations Management. Katie manages the business operations for Kidventure including Customer Service, Logistics, and Financial Management. She loves traveling and golfing with her husband, Heath, who just happens to be a longhorn, and she loves spending time with her cats Bevo & Cleo.

“Our #1 goal is to provide a safe, rewarding environment for your child.”

Michael Valka

Camps Coordinator

Michael graduated from the University of St. Thomas in Houston with a BA in General Studies, concentrations in Education and Theology. Michael comes to Kidventure after serving as Youth Minister and working with teens for 8 years. He married the love of his life and high school friend, Rachael in 2004. They now spend most of their time laughing and playing with their sons, John Michael and Matthew. Michael is also an avid musician, singer and songwriter.

“Kidventure is more than just a company, it’s about kids, it’s about family.”

Stacey Leigh Pye

Office Manager-Austin

Stacey is a graduate of The University of North Carolina at Wilmington with a BS in Sociology and an MA in Liberal Studies. She recently relocated to the Austin area and is very excited about joining the Kidventure team. Stacey has been teaching dance for the past 9 years and working in the North Carolina public school system teaching dance to special needs students for the past 3 years. She also enjoys being outdoors, attending sporting events, and spending time with her dog Chico.