People

Chris Eksteen brings more than 20 years of leadership in conservation, education, and community engagement. His previous experience includes directing an outdoor education center and managing international projects in environmental program design, conservation research, non profit management.

He holds a Master’s degree in Environmental Education, where his research focused on inclusive field-based learning for visually impaired students, as well as postgraduate diplomas in Business Administration, Tourism Management, and Tertiary Curriculum Design.

Passionate about making nature accessible to all, Chris has contributed to inclusive conservation publications, curriculum innovation, and scientific research initiatives across Africa. In his free time, he enjoys exploring wild landscapes, birding, photography, and storytelling that connects people with the natural world.

Seacamp is a private, non-profit, residential program that operates a marine science/SCUBA camp for teenagers during the summer and teaches outdoor marine education to school groups from September to May. Seacamp was established in 1966 and is accredited by the American Camp Association.

I am the Principal of Holy Trinity Catholic School, where I have the privilege of serving students, families, and staff in a Catholic school community I truly love. With more than 25 years in Catholic education and a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Grand Valley State University, I am passionate about creating schools where faith, learning, and relationships come together. I am especially excited about creation-based education and hands-on learning, and I am working to help Holy Trinity become a leader in this area. I believe strongly in the power of small Catholic schools to make a lasting difference in the lives of children and families.

Hello! My name is Sofie and I work as an environmental educator for the NOVA region.

Greetings!  My name is Rachel Sadowski - I work at a rural high school in the Northwest corner of Lenawee County - Addison, Michigan.  I am the Online Room Facilitator and am charged with maintaining online classes for grades 7 and 9-12.  I also help one of our Science teachers with one of the 7th grade classes.  I do "a lot" at our school - I am an advisor for the following clubs - Key Club, Outdoor, Robotics and Theatre.  I am also a certified NASP Basic Archery Instructor.  

Outside of work I have several hobbies/interests - I own my own small business making soaps, lotions/balms, salves, natural deodorants, butters/scrubs, lip balms.  I also make jewelry, clothing - crafty things.  I enjoy being in nature and attending Pow Wows.  

 

Abbey Matre is a Natural Resources, Environment, and Energy Educator with University of Illinois Extension serving Cook County. Her work focuses on environmental education, conservation outreach, and connecting communities with local natural resources through programs related to habitat restoration, water conservation, and climate resilience. She is passionate about helping people build meaningful connections with the natural world and turn education into action in their communities.

PhD. Environmental Planning, Management, & Education. Researcher in the field of Environmental Education and Sustainable Behavior Change.

Since 2016, I have been with REAP teaching K-12 Alaskan students about clean energy (energy efficiency and renewable energy). I also design and lead trainings for K-12 educators on energy literacy, renewable energy curriculum, AK EnergySmart curriculum, and other hands-on lessons that can be integrated into classrooms.

I am a senior Earth and Environmental Science student at Susquehanna University.