Camp Massasoit Family Shares Impact of East Campus

By: Damon Markiewicz

For Springfield College Department of Exercise Science faculty members Adam Feit '06, PhD'20, and Mary Kate Feit, G'09, PhD'20, they share a special passion for the College. Springfield College is where they met, and as they continue their life together with their two children Cody and Macy, the College continues to be at the root of some magical memories together. The Feit family enjoys the magic of Camp Massasoit and its unique blend of outdoor adventure, personal growth, and community spirit.

Adam and Mary Kate recently had the opportunity to share why Camp Massasoit at East Campus remains a special place for their family.

Question - Why has Camp Massasoit been a good fit for your family?

Answer - Springfield College is home for us! We met here in grad school, returned 10+ years later for our PhDs, and now raise our family here. Camp Massasoit feels like an extension of that home. It reinforces the Humanics philosophy we value so much, helping our kids grow as leaders who care about serving others.

As an athletic family, most of our kids’ activities revolve around sports. We love that Camp Massasoit gives them a break from that routine and teaches them new skills—like outdoor exploration, teamwork, and creativity, that they don’t always get on the field or court.

Question - How have you seen growth in your children by attending Camp Massasoit?

Answer - One of our children is naturally very competitive; losing has always been tough for him. But during a winter basketball game, he ran into a friend from Camp Massasoit who happened to be on the other team. Even though they only see each other for two weeks a year, they picked up right where they left off—laughing and talking on the court like no time had passed. At that moment, our son cared more about reconnecting with his camp friend than the outcome of the game. Seeing that shift in his priorities showed us just how much Camp has helped him grow as a person.

Question - How does East Campus enhance the camp experience?

Answer - It’s rare these days to find a place without screens, and that’s part of what makes East Campus so special. In a world that moves fast, East Campus gives our kids the chance to slow down, connect with nature, and build real friendships. It’s a grounding experience that they (and we) truly value.

Question - What makes Camp Massasoit special to you?

Answer - Camp Massasoit feels like a natural extension of Springfield College, which holds a big place in our lives. Knowing our kids are growing up in a place that lives out the College’s mission means a lot to us. It’s a reminder that the choices we’ve made are helping shape the people we love most in a really positive way.

Question - What have been some of your favorite Camp Massasoit moments?

Answer - One of our favorite parts of Camp Massasoit is how the experience sticks with our kids long after it ends. For weeks during and after camp, they’re constantly singing camp songs, turning every car ride into a concert!

Another special moment was at a Springfield College athletics event, when our son spotted four or five of his camp friends. Even though they live in different towns and only see each other for two weeks each summer, they picked up right where they left off. Watching those friendships continue outside of camp was really meaningful.

Question - Why is it important for your family to give back to Camp Massasoit?

Answer - Camp Massasoit means a lot to our family. It’s a place that reflects everything we care about: fun, friendship, learning, and growing as a person. As part of the Springfield College community, we’ve seen how powerful those early camp experiences can be for kids.

Giving back to Camp Massasoit is our way of saying thank you. We want other children, including our own, to have the same chances to explore nature, build confidence, and make lasting memories. The camp has given so much to so many, and we’re proud to support its future.