Leadership

Name: Mike Jacobsen
Position: Executive Director

Mike brings a varied blend of professional expertise, creativity, and humour to Camp Cadicasu, making him an ideal leader as we approach our centennial celebration in 2030. With a career spanning education, non-profits, recreation, and corporate leadership, Mike embodies the camp’s core values of kindness to ourselves, others, and the earth. His engaging personality brings joy and connection to every aspect of his leadership.

Mike began his career teaching primary school, focusing on early literacy and French immersion. Now, he’s looking forward to sharing his passion for reading with campers because books are better under the stars.

Mike managed snowboard day camps where one camper accidentally called him “Mickey.” Naturally, he spent the rest of the camp speaking in a Mickey Mouse voice. He created unique child-care offerings, including NERF Capture the Flag — a surefire hit with kids and parents alike. Mike’s background in golf led him develop the largest junior golf program in Canada under the Collicutt Dream Academy. His golf slice might be legendary now, but it could’ve been manageable if he’d followed the junior lessons he helped organize!

Mike transitioned into corporate life at Bennet Jones in Calgary, blending analytical skills with creativity to thrive in the business world. As a Team Lead in accounting, he oversaw operations and supported key business functions while mentoring team members. Mike also led the marketing strategy alongside senior executives to build impactful campaigns and develop long-term growth strategies.

Mike’s journey reflects a blend of professional expertise and a passion for fostering growth and connection. Joining Camp Cadicasu feels like the culmination of his life’s work, combining his skills with his love for nature and community. 

Mike prioritizes personal growth and self-care, whether it’s hiking a trail, brainstorming innovative programs, or cracking jokes with campers and staff. 

From mentoring snowboarders to developing strategies for corporate teams, Mike has consistently focused on building strong, genuine relationships.

Deeply committed to sustainability and environmental stewardship, Mike maintains a fully closed-ecosystem vivarium living in harmony.

Craziest Camping Story?

• Camping in the Australian Outback with just a sleeping bag, only to wake up with an eight-inch venomous centipede crawling over his face. I’ll take bears, thank you! 

Favourite Book Series?

• “Percy Jackson.” Imagine Hogwarts, but at camp with demigods. Chaos, adventure, and humor—it’s perfect! 

Favourite Sport?

• To Watch: Hockey. Growing up in Sherwood Park and Airdrie, I somehow became a Canucks fan— oh little Mike, if only you’d known the repercussions!
• To Play: Golf. Though my slice has regressed to a point where I’ll have to join the Junior Academy as a student! 

Favourite Author?

• Neil Gaiman. The Graveyard Book belongs on every bookshelf. If it’s not on yours, let me know— I’ll help fix that and give a 20-minute speech about why it’s a masterpiece. 

How Do You Live by Cadicasu’s Values?

• Perhaps hyperbolic but right now, I feel like I’m the embodiment of Cadicasu’s core values: leaving the corporate world to reconnect with nature, work with kids, and focus on sustainability feels like coming home. I’m counting down the days to the camp season—it’s like waiting for Christmas morning! 

It takes a community to build a village, and as Camp Cadicasu approaches its 100th year, we’re in great hands with all of you! Please consider exploring ways to continue showcasing the excellence of our community together.

Volunteer: Share your time and talents to create life-changing memories for campers. 

Sponsor: Partner with us to support programs that empower youth and foster community. 

Work at Camp: Be part of the team that brings Cadicasu’s magic to life. 

Donate: Your contributions ensure Cadicasu remains a beacon of growth and inclusivity for generations to come. 

executivedirector@cadicasu.com