Evening on the Lake
Join us on November 7 in Seattle, WA for our signature Pacific Northwest event benefitting our Olympic campus.
Gather with friends, partners, and supporters for a night of inspiration, connection, and celebration to raise critical funds for our Olympic National Park campus and the thousands of students who learn there each year. We are excited to share stories from the field, shine a light on the impact of outdoor education, and enjoy a few surprises along the way.
This special evening sold out last year, and we expect it to again. Don’t wait—secure your spot today.
Tickets on sale now for $275.
Event Co-Chairs: Rhoda Altom and Corey Carlson
Featured Speakers
Featured Speaker: Gretel von Bargen
A lifelong educator and advocate for the environment, Gretel von Bargen began her career as a National Park Service ranger in Yosemite before discovering her passion for teaching. She has blended classroom learning with hands-on field experiences, leading student expeditions everywhere from the Bahamas to Brazil. Gretel is a National Board Certified Teacher in Biology, a recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching, and an Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellow in Washington, D.C.
You will hear her perspective as both a teacher and a champion for the next generation, reflecting on the profound impact NatureBridge’s Olympic program has on young people.
Olympic Student of the Year: Jackson Blocker
After visiting NatureBridge in Olympic National Park in Spring 2025, Jackson felt more connected to our planet and the fragile ecosystems within it. Early in his life, his time spent hiking and adventuring in the Colorado Rockies led Jackson to become a nature lover and an aspiring conservationist. Sharks and protecting the ocean were Jackson’s entry points into conservation; however, after his experience at NatureBridge Olympic, he discovered the holistic view of protecting terrestrial creatures alongside those in the ocean. At NatureBridge, Jackson connected not only with the forest but with himself, embodying this quote from Ralph Smart: “There is no Wi-Fi in the forest, but I promise you will find a better connection.” NatureBridge gave Jackson priceless memories and a renewed sense of belonging.
Event Schedule
5:15 p.m. Registration Opens
As you enter the lobby, please take the staircase or elevator on your left up to the second floor where Evening on the Lake will take place.
5:30-6:30 p.m. Cocktail Hour, Olympic Campus Stations, and Forest Photo Booth
Sip on craft cocktails and capture the moment in our photo booth set against a beautiful fern backdrop. Step into the world of our student programs through hands-on exhibits that highlight the scientific studies offered at our Olympic National Park campus.
6:30-8:30 p.m. Dinner and Inspiring Stories
Indulge in a thoughtfully prepared dinner and heartfelt reflections from our featured speaker and the 2025 NatureBridge Olympic Student of the Year.
Questions about the schedule or general event questions? Email us anytime at eol@naturebridge.org.
Event FAQs
What is the recommended attire?
Think rustic chic or cocktail attire, whatever suits your style! And don’t forget, there’s an opportunity for a complimentary photo session - perfect for choosing an outfit you’ll love to remember the evening by.
I would like to attend but the ticket price is beyond my budget.
Please reach out to Isabel McComish to explore options for subsidized tickets.
Is the event ADA accessible?
We are committed to hosting inclusive and accessible events that ensure all individuals, including those with disabilities, can fully participate. This event will be held on the second floor accessible with elevator access. If you have any additional needs or specific concerns, please don’t hesitate to let us know, and we will make every effort to accommodate you.
Where will I park?
We recommend using the Russell Investment Center garage at the Seattle Art Museum directly across the street from the Four Seasons Hotel. Entrance is located on the south side of Union Street, between 1st and 2nd Avenues. Address: 1301 2nd Avenue, Seattle, WA 98101. Total evening parking cost beginning at 5:00pm is $10. Garage closes at 9:00pm.
Event Sponsors
