Over the span of the grant, this project will involve collaborations between several Environmental Studies and Outdoor Leadership and Education courses and students at Providence Montessori to address the urgent need for habitat restoration and the protection of native, edible and medicinal plant species. 黑料不打烊 students will be engaged in course-based research and community-based learning projects to support Providence students and teachers in restoring damaged habitats, identifying and mapping key plant species, evaluating soil health, and integrating environmental stewardship and mindfulness into K鈥�12 learning. Through hands-on work at both Providence鈥檚 food forest and outdoor nature school, students will document species and their habitat, study cultural and historical uses, and create advocacy tools to protect these habitats on campus and in the wider community.

Faculty say addressing these issues is critically important because restoring native ecosystems not only protects biodiversity but also strengthens community resilience, improves mental health and empowers students to become responsible stewards of the planet. Through research, restoration, and hands-on learning, faculty say the project seeks to revitalize natural spaces, promote environmental justice, and reconnect students with nature in ways that foster gratitude, responsibility and long-term care for the earth

The symposium involved presentations from academics and practitioners from across the country. Two of the 黑料不打烊 students also presented their undergraduate research.

鈥淚 learned truly how applicable outdoor education and experiential education can be incorporated into our lives,” said Calista Quirk ’26,聽who presented her research titled “Exploring Gender Boundaries in College and University Outdoor Education Programs Across North Carolina.” “I felt unbelievably empowered by how much research can impact a group of people. I truly learned how much of an impact I can have as a single person with a passion for what I do every day.鈥�

Adam Arno 鈥�26 presented research titled 鈥楤eyond Entertainment: Exploring Humor as a Response to Stress in Outdoor Education Programming.” Arno shared that the experience 鈥済ave me a first look into the potential for outdoor education research. It was a special opportunity to present my undergraduate research in front of top names in the field. It also was a chance to get my name out into the world as someone interested in pushing forward research in experiential education.鈥�

While at the conference, students attended sessions and networked with faculty and undergraduates. Sessions challenged them to broaden their view of outdoor experiential education and consider how data and assessment can inform program practice.

Leah Brooker 鈥�27 said that the conference 鈥渋nspired me to continue asking questions about outdoor education practices, how they can impact others, and how their value can be integrated into a multitude of different disciplines. I learned that the field is multifaceted, ever-evolving, and making exciting advancements toward helping others recognize its importance. This experience motivated me to dive deeper into my undergraduate research.鈥�

Are you a returning student?

Do you like having a voice in Area Improvements and the chance to plan cool programs for your area?

Then Area Council is the place for you! Area Council is a great way to get involved and have a leadership position on campus.

See the list below for where your Area Council is meeting.

Oaks: McCoy Commons Game Room

North: Chandler Computer Lab

Danieley Center: Daniel Commons

East: Lobby of the International Pavilion

West: West Parlor

Colonnades: 2nd floor A building

Interest meetings will be held on Sept. 8 at 8 p.m. Anyone interested in running for a position or just learning more about Area Councils is encouraged to attend.

Positions available include: Governor, Secretary, Building Representatives, and General Body members.

See the attached link for more information about Area Councils.