Playe, Erik
Director of College Counseling
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Playe, Erik
Director of College Counseling
M.A., Liberal Studies, Wesleyan University
B.A., English, Saint Michael's College
Erik Playe, a Northampton native and graduate of the prestigious Williston Northampton School, holds a Bachelor鈥檚 in English Literature with a minor in Spanish from St. Michael鈥檚 College in Vermont, and a Master鈥檚 in Liberal Studies鈥擧umanities from Wesleyan University in Connecticut.
For nearly two decades, he has made a significant impact teaching English and guiding students as a college counselor at top U.S. independent schools and an international school in South America. In addition to his work in the classroom and college counseling office, Erik has held key leadership roles as academic dean, residential dean, and director of student activities.
He and his wife, Kelly鈥攁 horticulturist, resilient landscape entrepreneur, and local nonprofit director鈥攖hrive in Colorado Springs, where they share a passion for hiking, snowshoeing, biking, gardening, and birding.
Erik鈥檚 dedication to his students is reflected in the numerous student-driven honors he has received at 蘑菇传媒. The class of 2023 dedicated their yearbook to him, the class of 2025 chose him to deliver their commencement address, and in 2024, the student body presented him with the Mary Wicks Award, recognizing the faculty member who most enriches student life throughout the year.
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If you were a superhero, what powers would you have and why?
I would be able to ripen an avocado just by touching it. I would even be able to bring avocados back from being overripe by touching them. I could make a dent in world hunger this way and also make guacamole at any moment.
What is one thing you've learned from students?
Patience...maybe. I am still working on it.
What did you want to be growing up?
A Jedi and a waterskier.
What draws you to working with students?
Their energy and never wondering if I am doing something meaningful.
What is one thing you enjoy about 蘑菇传媒 and why?
I love that we are the Kodiaks. I have been a Wildcat, a Purple Knight, a Winged Beaver, a Cardinal, a Sun Devil, a Hawk, and a Warrior, and now I am happy to be a Kodiak.
What is your favorite spot in the world and why?
Pagosa Springs, CO. My wife, Kelly, and I have a piece of property in Pagosa where we camp. It's our happy place.
