People

Andrew "Drew" Naumann, founder of Backcountry Training, is a WEA Certified Outdoor Educator (COE) and HSI Level 4 Instructor Trainer specializing in the intersection of elite operational readiness and environmental stewardship. A former Special Operations IDMT and Certified Wilderness Paramedic, Drew translates his expertise in survival fieldcraft and austere medicine into professional-grade certifications—including WFR, EMR, and ACLS—tailored for college students and military personnel. His work is dedicated to developing the next generation of outdoor leaders through a commitment to safety, professional excellence, and community revitalization.

I have a Bachelor of Arts in philosophy and history of science and mathematics and a Master of Science in marine science. For over 25 years my work has focused on building ocean literacy, environmental literacy, and science literacy among K-12 and informal education audiences to build community resilience to climate change and public support for a healthy, thriving ocean. 

Mary Helen Berg writes fiction and nonfiction picture books that honor big feelings and inspire young readers to explore and protect our big beautiful world. A former journalist, she lives in Southern California, where she loves to hike, bike, kayak, and road trip. She has a degree in literature from the University of Michigan, and a masters in journalism from Columbia University.

I am an educator for at least 50 years in both public school and non-profit organizations.

Founded in 2011, Bow Seat is the world's largest environmental youth program for the creative arts. We provide an innovative space for youth to connect, create, and communicate for our blue planet. Working at the intersection of ocean science and arts education, our award-winning Ocean Awareness Contest emphasizes creative thinking and making in exploring the natural world. Through art exhibitions, publications, and scholarships, Bow Seat uplifts diverse youth voices to advance dialogue and participation in environmental conservation. We empower young thinkers and creators to be active and empathetic global citizens, starting in their local communities and watersheds.

I am an Assistant Professor of Environmental Education at Florida Gulf Coast University. I hold a PhD in Science Education from NC State University, along with master’s degrees in Biodiversity, and Environment and Development. I specialize in informal environmental learning and have worked extensively with both urban and rural communities in India. My research focuses on understanding the motivations behind environmental social movements and using social analysis to explore how learning and motivation spread within communities. I currently teach courses in environmental education and environmental philosophies at FGCU.