Meet Our Team
Diverse and Dedicated Members
Get to know the amazing people behind our organization.
Nicole ‘Nikki’ Roux
Camp Director
Hi I’m Nikki Roux, founder and visionary for the Creative Adventure Camp (CAC). I bring 15 years of experience in education, with a wealth of knowledge and passion for education. I have a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Special Education, and have spent the majority of my career dedicated to fostering inclusive and dynamic learning environments that cater to diverse student needs. This extensive background has continued to drive and shape my commitment to ensuring all students, regardless of their learning style or background, feel seen, heard, and empowered to reach their fullest potential.
My vision for the Creative Adventure Camp began with a student’s passion for STEAM. This unique STEAM-based camp, is designed as a program that also emphasizes the core values of the “4 C’s”: Communication, Collaboration, Compassion, and Creativity. These principles are at the heart of the camp experience, since I believe that these four pillars are essential to building meaningful educational experiences that extend beyond the classroom.
By integrating these values, I am able to foster an environment where students develop critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and problem-solving skills through hands-on learning. This approach not only nurtures students’ individual strengths but also promotes teamwork and social interaction. The camp’s STEAM curriculum connects with campers’ diverse learning styles—whether visual, auditory, kinesthetic, or logical—by offering varied ways to engage with content that resonates with each participant’s unique way of processing and exploring information.
At its core, my camp is more than just a space for learning; it’s a community where campers can build relationships, discover their passions, and embrace the creative process, all while fostering academic growth. By merging special education strategies with STEAM education, I am excited to create a program that supports students in a way that’s both innovative and deeply compassionate, preparing them for success both in and outside of the classroom.
Kristen Merseal
Educational Director
Hi there! With a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Elementary Education, I have dedicated 18 years to teaching across Missouri, Georgia, Florida, and the Netherlands. Certified in Early Childhood, Elementary, and Special Education, I have focused on STEM education and building a diverse curriculum that reflects all learning styles.
Through play, children learn about the world and themselves, developing confidence, self-esteem, resilience, and social skills. Incorporating STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education into hands-on learning further enhances critical thinking and problem solving abilities. By providing opportunities for hands-on exploration, I support children in developing the skills necessary to navigate and succeed in an ever-evolving world.
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Alicia DeArce
Marketing/social
Alicia DeArce is a recent graduate of the University of Central Florida with a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. With a deep passion for empowering young learners, Alicia is dedicated to helping students build confidence in their abilities and achieve their full potential. Throughout her academic journey, Alicia has developed a strong foundation in child development, effective teaching strategies, and creating inclusive classroom environments.
In addition to her education background, Alicia is a former Disney cast member, where she gained invaluable experience in customer service, teamwork, and communication. This role taught her how to engage with diverse groups, foster positive relationships, and create memorable, supportive experiences for others.
During her time at UCF, Alicia gained hands-on experience through student teaching and internships, where she honed her classroom management skills and ability to design engaging lessons. She is committed to fostering a creative, dynamic, and inclusive learning environment that caters to diverse student needs.
Alicia is excited to continue her journey as an educator, combining her passion for teaching with the lessons learned from her unique experiences at Disney, to make a positive impact on future generations of students.
Christopher Cook
Technology Instructor
More of Our Team
Gabriel Torres
Music Instructor
Gabriel Torres-Gonzalez is a graduate of the University of Central Florida with a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education. With over ten years of experience in small chamber ensembles, marching bands, and large symphonic ensembles, Gabriel Torres brings a variety of knowledge to the early music level. With activities based in Music History, Basic Music Theory, and World Music, students are given the tools and resources needed to become a well-rounded musician.
Gabriel Torres is the recipient of the John Phillip Sousa Award, an honor bestowed to recognize outstanding musicianship and dedication. Gabriel Torres was also recognized as the 2024 Rookie Arts Teacher of the Year for Osceola County.
Colleen Schmidt
Art Instructor
Jane Rhuland
Science Instructor
Kristen Harwood
Engineering Instructor
I’m Ms Harwood I have taught elementary education for 16 years. I have my Masters in Educational Leadership. I love teaching because I enjoy helping children learn about the world around them!