Sherwood Forest is thrilled to welcome 3 new staff members to our Programs team in 2025!
First up, Sherwood Forest is thrilled to announce Aliyah Walls (pictured center) as our newest Quest Program Manager (aka Camp Director)!
Aliyah is no stranger to Sherwood Forest. As a camper and former staff member, Aliyah has promoted and led our mission’s work supporting children in the St. Louis area. In addition to Sherwood Forest, Aliyah has worked at several area nonprofits gaining experience in volunteer management, recruitment, diversity, equity, and inclusion as well as working with individuals experiencing crisis.
“As the new Camp Director at Sherwood Forest, I’m beyond excited to return to a place that shaped my childhood. Growing up, I saw firsthand how connecting to nature and being part of the Sherwood Forest community could transform lives. Now, I’m eager to help create those same meaningful experiences for future campers,” Aliyah shared.
In 2024, Aliyah earned her Master’s in Public Policy Administration with an emphasis in Nonprofit Leadership and Management from the University of Missouri-St. Louis (UMSL). She is part of the 2025 Spring cohort for the Focus St. Louis Emerging Leaders Program. When not working, she can be found hiking or camping with her dogs, Tucker and Thea, watching a football game, spending time with friends and family, trying new foods, and finding moments of peace in the gym.
We also have Emmanuel Abiodun Oke (pictured left) joining the team as our new Quest Youth and Family Support Coordinator.
Emmanuel Abiodun Oke has dedicated over a decade to helping children discover their potential through mentorship, chess, education, creativity, and personal growth. His international experience working with marginalized youth in Africa has equipped him with the ability to connect, uplift, and inspire young minds while fostering meaningful relationships with families and communities. With a deep understanding of the social, emotional, and behavioral needs of children, Emmanuel’s work is grounded in empathy, resilience, and a commitment to creating environments where every child can thrive.
“I am proud to be part of the Sherwood Forest team, where love, leadership, and a dedication to youth development come together to create lasting impact,” Emmanuel shared.
In addition to spending time with family and loved ones, Emmanuel enjoys the art of chess, volunteering for social causes, and immersing himself in music that sparks creativity. When he’s not strategizing life moves on the chessboard or empowering youth, he can be found exploring nature and promoting environmental stewardship.
Finally, we will have June Sites (pictured right) as our new Quest Program Coordinator. In this position, June will assist in planning and implementing activities year-round for our campers.
June holds an undergraduate degree in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism with an emphasis in Natural Resource Recreation Management from the University of Missouri. After graduating in 2019, June worked as a naturalist educator at outdoor schools and summer camps in California, New York, North Carolina, and Texas. Outside of work you can find June enjoying nature, adventure sports, gardening, or playing musical instruments.
Please help us welcome Aliyah, Emmanuel, and June to Sherwood Forest!