2023 Student of the Year Runners-Up
As we approach our event An Evening Outside with NatureBridge on May 11, we would like to recognize the runners-up for our annual Student of the Year Award! We had the wonderful opportunity to learn about some of the amazing students who have participated in NatureBridge programs and are excited to share their stories. June and Alondra are two incredible examples of young people who have been impacted by their time with us and continue to inspire those around them. Please help us congratulate all of our Student of the Year 2023 Runners-Up!
June Lifland
5th grade, Coastal Camp
What was your biggest takeaway from your experience with NatureBridge?
My biggest takeaway from my experience at NatureBridge has been that being outside in community learning with other kids is a great change from sitting inside in a classroom all day!
How do you remain inspired to be a steward of the environment?
I remain inspired to be a steward of the environment by using the knowledge and skills I’ve developed over the years at Coastal Camp when I am exploring National Parks with my family and friends. I love being able to identify plants and animal/sea creatures and help make sure we leave no trace when we leave the park.
What are your plans for the future around nature, leadership or science?
I would love to someday be a counselor at Coastal Camp (when I am old enough) and encourage younger kids to build confidence in hiking and exploration.
Student of the Year 2023 Runner Up
Student of the Year 2023 Runner Up
Student of the Year 2023 Runner Up
Alondra Lopez
12th grade, WildLink
What was your biggest takeaway from your experience with NatureBridge?
Being able to climb Mt. Hoffman was the biggest takeaway from my experience. That was my first hike ever and I enjoyed it. Climbing to the summit was a challenge for me and I am proud to say I overcame it. Looking back at what I accomplished I feel a sense of exuberance just by remembering the experience. I am very happy that my experience with NatureBridge was a wonderful memory that I will forever remember.
How do you remain inspired to be a steward of the environment?
I feel inspired to use the knowledge I acquired at NatureBridge to inform those around me about wilderness and the importance of Yosemite National Park. I think it is important for other students to know the important role that nature can play in a person’s life and the world around them.
What are your plans for the future around nature, leadership or science?
After going to Yosemite, I would definitely love to revisit the wilderness and have more experience hiking and backpacking. I would like to encourage other people like my friends to visit Yosemite National Park so they can experience something new and breathtaking. I hope that this experience will help them as it helped me.
Student of the Year 2023 Runner Up
Student of the Year 2023 Runner Up
Stories
2024 Student of the Year: Kai Diaz
At NatureBridge, we celebrate the stewards of today and foster the development of the stewards of tomorrow, working to inspire environmental stewardship in all our participants. Our goal is to motivate our students to make waves and be changemakers in their communities and for our planet.
Each year, NatureBridge honors a student who has demonstrated leadership, growth and a commitment to protecting our natural world as a result of their participation in a NatureBridge program. This year’s honoree will be recognized and will speak at An Evening Outside with NatureBridge on Thursday, May 16 at our Golden Gate campus.
We are thrilled to announce our 2024 Student of the Year: Kai Diaz.
An Interview with Evening Outside Keynote Speaker Dr. Britt Wray
The minute we found out about the work of Dr. Britt Wray, we knew we wanted to learn more about her. A well-respected author and scientist, Dr. Wray possesses expertise in an area of research we talk about a lot at NatureBridge—specifically how we can be resilient, hopeful, and actionable amid a changing world, including the climate crisis. We’re thrilled that Dr. Wray will be joining us on May 16 for An Evening Outside with NatureBridge as our Featured Speaker. Ahead of the event, we had the chance to ask her a few questions relating to her work and her connection to the mission of NatureBridge.
Staff Spotlight: Appreciation for Miho Aida
Miho Aida (she/they) has held multiple roles at NatureBridge over the past twenty-four years, including Environmental Science Educator, Community Connection Coordinator, Field Staff Scientist, Marine Project Coordinator, Pacific Rim Environmental Education Specialist, Armstrong Scholars Educator, Diversity Coordinator, Equity and Inclusion Manager, and Director of Equity and Inclusion. Now, on the eve of Miho's departure, we asked them to reflect on their time at NatureBridge and share a bit about their upcoming adventures.