Stories from

Yosemite

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Don Rees, the founding Executive Director of NatureBridge, then known as Yosemite Institute.
Stories from the field

Honoring Donald Rees: The Visionary Founder of NatureBridge

On January 2, 2025, the NatureBridge community lost its founder and a true pioneer of environmental education, Donald Rees. With a bold vision, unrelenting passion, and an unwavering belief in the power of nature to transform young lives, Don created an enduring legacy that has connected over 1.6 million students to the natural world.

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NatureBridge students are ready to hit the trail and explore the Yosemite landscape
Stories from the field

Saying Farewell to NatureBridge’s Crane Flat Campus

After more than 50 years, NatureBridge is saying farewell to our longtime campus at Crane Flat as we transition to our new home at Henness Ridge, the National Environmental Science Center (NESC).

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Ty Cobb with wife, Sueellen
Stories from the field

In Memory of Ty Cobb: A Visionary Leader of Resilience and Impact

Ty Cobb, former CEO of Yosemite National Institutes (now NatureBridge), passed away on Saturday, December 7, 2024 in Reno at the age of 84. Known for his visionary leadership, resilience, and ability to inspire collaboration, Ty guided YNI through some of its most difficult moments while building a foundation for its future growth and success.

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