SWAMP BASE STAFF

BEN PIERCE

A founding member and co-creator of Louisiana Swamp Base, Ben originally established the program as a conservation-based activity during the Centennial of Scouting celebrations in 2010 and has since led the development and growth of the program as an accredited high adventure trek since 2013.

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Growing up in Lafayette, Louisiana and receiving his degree from LSU in landscape architecture and land planning, Ben has a comprehensive understanding of the value of our natural systems, as well as the numerous benefits Swamp Base participants receive when they understand and respectfully recreate in the outdoors.

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With extensive reach across the country, Ben strives to use Swamp Base to create a lasting positive impression of swamps on all who participate.

ROBERT DONADIEU

An Eagle Scout and a Scouting America Wood Badge "Bear" (a good ole bear too!), Robert oversees all adventure activities and logistics for Swamp Base.

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Robert started working for Swamp Base as a summer high adventure trek guide during the program's inaugural year in 2013 while he was earning his degree from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette in advertising.

Now as Camp Director, Robert enjoys working with Trek Advisors from across the country to better prepare them for their upcoming treks. Seeing the smiling faces of crews who have conquered the swamp is one of his greatest fulfillments. He looks forward to working with Scouts and other organizations, because he knows that you’ll love the adventure and gain a better understanding of why the swamp is so important.

GINA BECKMAN-GUILBEAUX

Gina was introduced to Swamp Base in 2016 when she served as a trek guide, and returned as Program Director in 2022. In this role, she develops and implements trek activities that align with the mission of the organization while also making sure learning and having fun are at their cores.

She received her degree in Natural Resource Management from the University of Tennessee at Martin with a focus in Park’s Administration, and prior to joining Swamp Base, she worked at state parks, museums, zoos, and became a Certified Interpretive Guide for the National Association for Interpretation.

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Gina is the recipient of the Girl Scout Gold Award, Venturing Silver Award, and Sea Scout Quartermaster Award, and is proud to be able to facilitate programs that connect people to Louisiana’s swamps in a way that benefits youth and the environment.

AVA THIBODEAUX

Ava began her Swamp Base career in 2021 as a high adventure trek guide and completed four summer seasons on staff. She is the most seasoned trek guide in Swamp Base history, having led crews on the 61.6-mile trail and astonishing 24 times (paddling 1478.4 miles)! Ava joined the organization full time in 2025 as Trek Director. In this role, she works to create new programs and ensure that existing programs are being delivered as planned. Additionally, she oversees the development and training of the summer trek staff.

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She received her degree in Biology from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette with a concentration in Ecology, Evolution, and Marine Biology.

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Ava is proud of her Cajun heritage and enjoys creating her own legacy while sharing the story of South Louisiana's environment and people with Scouts from around the country.