Hilary Axtmayer Appointed CEO of Paul Newman's Hole in the Wall Gang Camp

Leadership Change at Hole in the Wall Gang Camp

On June 1, Paul Newman’s Hole in the Wall Gang Camp will transition into a new era with Hilary Axtmayer stepping in as CEO. After a thorough nationwide search led by the organization's board, Axtmayer’s appointment comes as the camp prepares to continue its mission of providing hope and healing to children with serious illnesses.

Axtmayer has a long-standing relationship with the camp, initially joining the organization back in 2001. Before her current role, she served as the Chief Program Officer, during which she honed her skills in leadership and program management. Her extensive experience and personal connection to the camp’s mission make her a perfect fit for the top position.

In her own words, Axtmayer expressed gratitude for the confidence shown by the board, stating, "I am incredibly honored to step into the role of CEO and so grateful for the board's confidence in me. My long history with Hole in the Wall has given me a deep understanding of its culture and mission, and a profound appreciation for our remarkable staff, the families we serve, and the loyal donors and volunteers who believe in and sustain our work."

Axtmayer's time at the camp has not only involved administrative roles but has also included hands-on experience as a summer counselor and Executive Camp Director. This dual experience has equipped her with a holistic understanding of the organization, allowing her to empathize with both the staff and the families it serves.

Lynn Fusco and Jeff Horstman, co-chairs of the board, praised Axtmayer’s character, saying, "Over her time at Camp, Hilary has consistently demonstrated integrity, compassion, positive communication, respect and gratitude. We are confident her past experience driving organizational growth through innovative program design, leadership development, and cross-department collaboration will ensure a seamless transition and successful tenure as CEO."

As Axtmayer steps into her new role, she follows in the footsteps of Jimmy Canton, who served as the camp’s CEO for an impressive 23 years before announcing his retirement. Under Canton’s leadership, the camp has prospered, making a significant impact on the lives of countless families.

The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, founded by the late actor Paul Newman in 1988, provides enriching and fun-filled experiences at no cost to children with serious health conditions. The camp emphasizes a unique kind of healing through laughter, friendship, and shared experiences, giving a sense of normalcy to these children and their families.

With Axtmayer's vision and dedication, there’s great anticipation surrounding the camp's future. Her educational background, which includes a master’s degree in global health sciences from Oxford University and a master’s in social work from Columbia University, further enhances her capabilities to lead the camp into new heights.

In addition to her tenure at Hole in the Wall, Axtmayer has worked as a field consultant for HIV/AIDS youth programs within the SeriousFun Children's Network and has held various roles in other youth-focused nonprofits. Her diverse experiences reaffirm her commitment to effecting change in children’s lives through compassionate programming and outreach.

Axtmayer’s appointment heralds an exciting chapter for Paul Newman's Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, as they continue their essential work in creating joyful moments for children who face serious challenges. Community members, donors, and volunteers can look forward to seeing how Axtmayer will guide the camp, bringing her passion and long-term experience into its next chapter, preserving the spirit of the camp as they forge ahead.