Annual
Report

2025–2026

01 Letter from the CEO and Board Chair

As we reflect on the 2025 program year, we do so with a deep sense of gratitude and resolve. This past year asked much of the environmental education field—and NatureBridge rose to meet the moment. Rooted firmly in our mission to connect young people to the wonder and science of the natural world, we expanded access, strengthened partnerships, and created meaningful learning experiences for tens of thousands of students across our national park campuses.

During the 2025-26 academic year, NatureBridge welcomed more than 29,000 students for over 97,000 days of immersive, place-based learning. Students arrived curious and often uncertain, and they left with greater confidence, a deeper connection to nature, and a renewed sense of responsibility for the world around them. Survey data affirmed what we see every day on the trail: students are more likely to spend time outdoors, protect the environment, engage with their communities, and share what they’ve learned with others because of their NatureBridge experience.

This year also marked important milestones for our organization. At Yosemite, a full year of operation at the National Environmental Science Center ushered in a new era of learning and stewardship—one that brings together science, social-emotional learning, and action in one of the world’s most iconic landscapes. Across our campuses, we strengthened leadership, welcomed new educators, launched new programs like Forest Camp in the Mid-Atlantic region, and continued to innovate even as public funding for outdoor education faced new challenges.

Equally important were the points of connection that extended beyond the moments on trail. Alumni stories reminded us that the impact of NatureBridge extends far beyond a single week in the outdoors. Teacher Nights strengthened partnerships with educators who bring learning back to their classrooms year-round. Supporters and advocates gathered at regional events and on Capitol Hill to champion the importance of outdoor education—ensuring that these experiences remain accessible to future generations.

None of this work happens in isolation. It is made possible by the dedication of our staff, the leadership of our board, the trust of our school partners, and the generosity of our donors. Your belief in the power of outdoor learning allows NatureBridge to continue evolving while staying true to the values that have guided us for more than 50 years.

As you read this report, we hope you see not only what NatureBridge accomplished in 2025, but what lies ahead. Together, we are preparing young people to care for themselves, their communities, and the planet—now and for years to come.

With gratitude,

Liz Valentine
Board Chair
NatureBridge

Phil Kilbridge
President & CEO
NatureBridge

02Rooted in Mission, Meeting the Moment

In 2025, NatureBridge stayed firmly rooted in our mission—connecting young people to the wonder and science of the natural world—while meeting the moment with purpose, adaptability, and care. Across campuses, programs, and partnerships, we expanded access, elevated student voices, and strengthened inclusive, place-based learning experiences that will expand far beyond the year itself.

The stories below reflect how students, educators, alumni, and supporters brought this mission to life throughout fiscal year 2026.

Students of the Year

Subiksha Shri Palanisamy Mythili: Student of the Year (National)

Subiksha’s experience with NatureBridge sparked a deep commitment to environmental justice, leadership, and community advocacy. Through hands-on learning and reflection, she found the confidence to speak up, mentor peers, and pursue climate action—carrying the impact of her program far beyond the park.

Subiksha Shri Palanisamy Mythili: Student of the Year (AEN)

Jackson Blocker: Student of the Year (Olympic)

At NatureBridge’s Olympic campus, Jackson discovered both a sense of belonging outdoors and a stronger belief in himself. His experience helped clarify his passion for environmental education and inspired him to imagine a future helping others feel welcome and capable in nature.

Rooted in Mission

TEAM: Together Everyone Achieves More

The TEAM mantra continued to guide NatureBridge’s work toward more inclusive, identity-affirming outdoor learning spaces. By centering belonging, collaboration, and equity, TEAM supports educators and students alike in building community and shared ownership of the learning experience.

Every Kid Outdoors: Expanding Access to Public Lands for NatureBridge Alumni

Through partnerships with the Every Kid Outdoors initiative, NatureBridge helped remove barriers for students who might not otherwise experience national parks. These programs ensure more young people can engage in hands-on science, exploration, and discovery in places that belong to all of us.

Rebecca Welch: A Trip That Changed Everything

Rebecca’s NatureBridge experience marked a turning point in her life, shaping her confidence, perspective, and sense of purpose. What began as a school program became the foundation for her continued work in environmental advocacy and leadership.

Terri Carta: A Career Inspired by NatureBridge

Terri traces her career in conservation back to a single NatureBridge moment—hearing “The Lorax” read aloud on the trail. That early experience sparked a lifelong commitment to protecting public lands and connecting people to nature, a commitment she now lives out professionally.

“I feel so happy that I have this experience. The hiking was really fun and the nature was just beautiful. I liked that we got to go outdoors. Usually in a classroom we just sit on a desk. This learning was so hands-on.”

— Aniko, seventh grade, Washington, D.C.

Campus Highlights

Yosemite

We entered a new chapter of our history in Yosemite in 2025, completing a full year of students exploring the National Environmental Science Center (NESC). A new NatureBridge exhibit in the Yosemite Exploration Center showcases our history in the park with visitors, while inviting them to participate in their own self-guided observation activities. Our Summer Days summer program continues to welcome and build community relationships with the families and young people in Yosemite and the surrounding areas.

The NESC also served as a hub for group retreats, including UC Merced’s ¡Bobcat Nature! and Parks Project. At the NESC and in Yosemite Valley, we’ve continued to expand our partnership with 5 Gyres, where NatureBridge participants explore stewardship as both science-based and social-emotional learning enhancing activities. As Yosemite Stewardship Education Manager Kaitee Levinson shares, “What we do at NatureBridge is science. How we do it is SEL. Why we do it is stewardship.”

WildLink: Building the Future of Conservation

WildLink is a long-term investment in people living in gateway communities around Yosemite, creating pathways into conservation careers for young adults from communities historically underrepresented in environmental fields. Through paid training, mentorship, and hands-on work in national parks, participants gain the skills, confidence, and professional networks needed to thrive in the conservation workforce.

WildLink represents lasting impact—preparing the next generation of park stewards, educators, and environmental leaders whose influence will shape our shared landscapes for years to come.
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Golden Gate

At Golden Gate, students participated in hands-on marine science experiences, including witnessing the Marine Mammal Center’s release of two rehabilitated California sea lions back into the Pacific Ocean. These powerful moments foster empathy for wildlife and help students discover their role in protecting coastal ecosystems. Our campus continues to evolve as improvements made to our facilities—such as lab space improvements, and repairs to dorms, kitchen, and the dining room—allow us to more efficiently serve our students. Our Coastal Camp summer day camp also continues to grow as we welcomed more students during the summer of 2025 than ever before.

Ocean Conservationist Norah Eddy Inspires at Golden Gate

Ocean conservationist Norah Eddy joined friends and supporters of the NatureBridge Golden Gate community on campus to share about her work protecting marine environments and communities. Her visit encouraged community members to see themselves as changemakers with the power to care for oceans and the planet.

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Olympic

NatureBridge’s Olympic campus continues to deliver transformative outdoor learning experiences amid growing state-level funding challenges. As outdoor education programs across Washington faced uncertainty, Olympic doubled down on partnerships and stepped up in leadership to ensure students could still access meaningful, place-based science experiences.

Olympic Campus Director Jen Kidder was appointed as the Chair of Washington’s Outdoor School Coalition, underscoring the importance of advocacy and collaboration during a time of shifting public investment. Olympic also celebrated long-time Education Manager Emily Volz’s move into her new role as Education Director, where her leadership is strengthening curriculum, educator support, and long-term sustainability. Grounded in the dynamic and inspiring landscapes of Olympic National Park—from lush rainforest valleys to the heights of Mount Storm King—the campus continues to model resilience, relevance, and impact when outdoor education is needed most.

National Geographic Explorer Inspires Olympic Community

In February 2025, NatureBridge was the beneficiary of an inspiring program hosted by National Geographic Live at the Field Arts and Events Hall in Port Angeles. Canopy scientist and National Geographic Explorer Dr. Nalini Nadkarni showcased her work of exploring forest ecosystems to a packed house of nature enthusiasts and educators. Dr. Nadkarni’s visit encouraged curiosity, wonder, and a deeper understanding of how science lives all around us—even above our heads.

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Young people in Prince William Forest Park

Mid-Atlantic Region

NatureBridge’s Mid-Atlantic campus at Prince William Forest Park demonstrated what’s possible when strong community partnerships and advocacy come together. The campus hosted our national board meeting in October, bringing NatureBridge leaders together on site to deepen their connection to the region and the impact of our work.

The board gathering coincided with a successful Hill Day, where NatureBridge staff, board members, and partners met with policymakers to advocate for outdoor education and equitable access to environmental learning. At a time when public support for outdoor education faces ongoing challenges, these conversations elevated the importance of programs like NatureBridge—and reinforced our role as both educators and advocates for the next generation of environmental stewards.

Forest Camp Launches in Prince William Forest Park

To meet growing demand, NatureBridge opened Forest Camp at Prince William Forest Park in summer 2025, offering a new day camp grounded in exploration, teamwork, and play. The inaugural season welcomed students into Prince William Forest Park for immersive learning and unforgettable summer experiences outdoors.

Read article

What are students saying about our campuses?

In 2025, our Education team asked our students to list up to three things they learned while on their NatureBridge program. This provided wonderful insight into our students’ takeaways. While many students listed what they had learned about their campus’ environment and cultural history, many students also listed things that they had learned about themselves. “I was brave,” “How to be a great friend,” and “Everything tells a story” are just a sample of how students responded.

Meeting the Moment

An Evening with NatureBridge

An Evening with NatureBridge in May 2025 brought together alumni, supporters, educators, and students for a powerful night of storytelling and connection in San Francisco. The event raised critical funds for scholarships for our students while celebrating the lasting impact of outdoor learning across generations.

Evening on the Lake

Hosted in Seattle, Evening on the Lake gathered community members for a night rooted in gratitude, inspiration, and shared purpose. Student stories, educator reflections, and even musical numbers highlighted the importance of access to transformative outdoor education.

Celebrating 25 Years of Armstrong Scholars

In 2025, NatureBridge celebrated the 25th season of Armstrong Scholars, one of our most beloved programs. Inspired by and in memory of former NatureBridge educator Joie Armstrong, the Armstrong Scholars program empowers young women through extended wilderness experiences. For a quarter century, the program has fostered confidence, leadership, resilience, and lifelong connections to nature.

“Yosemite is a place where students get to nest their stories in rocks that formed over millions of years. That sense of time and place gives their own lives new context.”

— Lily Rhinehart, NatureBridge Educator

Alumni Impact: The Growing Roots of NatureBridge

NatureBridge’s impact doesn’t end when a program does—it continues to grow outward through the lives of alumni who carry their experiences into careers, communities, and leadership roles. Claire Darcy’s journey came full circle when she returned to NatureBridge as a staff member, transforming her early experience as a student into a career rooted in education and mentorship. Dave Yacubian reflected on the shared values between NatureBridge and National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS), tracing how his outdoor education roots influenced his leadership and teaching philosophy. And Andree Blanchier shared how a single week in Yosemite sparked a lifetime of leadership, service, and global impact—demonstrating just how powerful one formative experience can be.

Together, these stories remind us that NatureBridge alumni are not only environmental stewards, but educators, advocates, and leaders who are shaping the world around them.

Claire Darcy

For Environmental Science Educator Claire Darcy, NatureBridge isn’t just a workplace—it’s a place where her past and present meet, shaping a future rooted in stewardship, curiosity, and community.

Dave Yacubian

When Dave Yacubian arrived at the windswept Marin Headlands in Northern California as a NatureBridge (formerly The Headlands Institute) Field Science Educator in 2001, he already had a deep connection to wild places. His initial connection was first sparked during a National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) course.

Andree Blanchier

For Andree Blanchier, the memories of Yosemite aren't just mental snapshots of granite peaks and waterfalls; they are the foundational layers of a life dedicated to education and making an impact in her community.

Teacher Nights: Supporting Educators Beyond the Classroom

In 2025, we continued to strengthen relationships with educators through “Teacher Nights” held across all regions—creating space for connection, inspiration, and shared learning outside the classroom. These gatherings offered teachers hands-on science experiences, opportunities to collaborate with peers, and practical tools to bring outdoor learning back to their students.

Yosemite / Los Angeles

Olympic / Seattle (Bellevue)

Golden Gate / Yosemite / Bay Area (East Bay)

Mid-Atlantic / Virginia (Annandale)

03By the Numbers

Behind every data point is a student discovering something new about themselves and the natural world. This year reflects the growing reach and impact of NatureBridge—from the students who joined us from across the country to the educators who returned season after season to guide them. Together, these figures highlight the momentum of our programs, the strength of our community, and the lasting influence of learning in nature.

A wide landscape of Yosemite Valley featuring a high waterfall cascading down a sheer granite cliff. In the foreground, a small group of people stands on a rocky riverbank next to a calm reflection of the mountains in the water.

We celebrate staff who continue to believe in our mission and provide transformative experiences for our students, some for as many as 25+ years with NatureBridge.

When asked if they would recommend working at NatureBridge to a friend or colleague, 74.2% of staff rated us an eight or higher. (86.7% rated us a seven or higher)

74%

Percentage of total returning staff members from the previous year, across four campuses.

Staff tenure by total years

10+
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5-10
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3-5
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1-2
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< 1
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