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A Good No Makes Room for the Right Yes

3/11/2025

For years, I thought saying yes was the right thing to do. Yes to extra projects. Yes to meetings that could’ve been emails. Yes to last-minute requests because, well, I was capable and I cared. And Lord help me, if someone said, “You’re just so good at this,” that yes was out of my mouth before I even prayed about it.

When I was the science director for a big school district, I said yes all the time. I loved that job. I loved the teachers, the kids, the mission. I poured my heart into that work, and for a while, I thrived on it. But the more yeses I gave, the less of me there was to go around. I was stretched so thin I felt like a rubber band about to snap. And spoiler alert: I did snap.

Not in a big, dramatic way. No shouting, no storming out. Just me, sitting in my car in the school parking lot, staring at yet another overflowing to-do list, feeling completely empty. I had given so much that there was nothing left of me. And right there, in the middle of that quiet little meltdown, my husband said something that changed everything.

"What if we did something different? What if we worked together? What if we stopped pouring everything into someone else’s mission and started saying yes to something bigger—something ours?”

That moment was my turning point. Saying no to the life I had built wasn’t easy, but suddenly, it wasn’t as scary either—because I had a better yes waiting on the other side. That yes led us to one of the greatest decisions we’ve ever made: our work with the National Parks. That yes gave us a new purpose, a mission that fuels us instead of drains us. That yes wouldn’t have been possible if I hadn’t finally learned to say no.

See, we like to believe we have an unlimited supply of time, energy, and patience. But we don’t. Every yes costs something. And when we spend all our yeses on things we could do instead of what we’re called to do, we run ourselves into the ground.

Saying no isn’t a rejection—it’s a boundary. It’s making sure that when the right yes comes along—the one that fuels your purpose, the one that brings joy instead of exhaustion—you actually have the capacity to say it.

So if you’re out here handing out yeses like free samples at Costco, I want you to hear me: It is okay to say no. It is okay to leave some room in your life. It is okay to set that boundary, to protect your peace, to stop being the person who saves the day at the expense of your own well-being.

Because trust me, the world will not fall apart if you say no. But you just might fall apart if you don’t.

And friend, I don’t want that for you.

The Smokies Are Changing—And It’s Not Just the Trees

3/10/2025

I grew up camping in the Great Smoky Mountains. Every summer, my family would pack up the car, haul way too much gear, and set up camp under trees so tall they seemed to scrape the sky. Back then, the woods felt wild and endless—like nothing could touch them.

But if you go there now, it’s different. And not in a “Wow, they upgraded the visitor center” kind of way. Trees that stood for generations are dying, and it’s not just the cycle of nature. It’s an invasion. Tiny bugs you’ve probably never heard of—the emerald ash borer and the hemlock woolly adelgid—are taking out entire sections of the forest. The ash trees? Practically gone. The mighty hemlocks? Struggling to hang on.

Here’s the kicker: these invaders didn’t start here. They hitched a ride—on firewood, in the dirt on our boots, in shipments of trees and plants. They snuck in quietly, spread like wildfire, and now the forests I grew up in look more like graveyards in some places.

And that got me thinking: this isn’t just a tree problem. It’s a human problem. We bring things into our lives—habits, distractions, even relationships—that seem small at first. Harmless. Maybe even useful. But over time, they take root in ways we never intended, pushing out the good, the strong, the life-giving things. Just like those invasive species, they don’t show up with flashing lights and a warning sign. They slip in quietly. And if we’re not paying attention, we look up one day and realize what we loved, what made us feel alive, is barely hanging on.

So, what do we do? Well, in the case of the Smokies, we start small. We buy firewood where we burn it instead of hauling it in from somewhere else. We brush off our boots before hiking in a new place. We support conservation efforts that help protect what’s left.

And maybe, just maybe, we take a second to look at our own lives and ask: What’s creeping in that doesn’t belong? What do I need to stop carrying with me? Because whether we’re talking about a forest or a person, the things we let in matter. And if we’re not careful, we might wake up one day and find out we’ve lost something we never meant to let go of.

The Smokies are changing. But we still have a say in what happens next.

National Park Rangers: Inspiring Change, One Life at a Time!

2/14/2025

Every day, National Park Rangers do more than protect our nation’s most treasured places—they ignite curiosity, inspire action, and empower the next generation of changemakers. 🚀

💡 In 2021, an educator’s visit to Acadia National Park during a STEAM in the PARK event sparked a transformation. That single experience led an entire school district in Indiana to solve ENGINEERING challenges focused on real-world problems in national parks. Students later presented to National Mall rangers and engineers with innovative ideas to save the Tidal Basin. 🌊

💙 At Jimmy Carter National Historical Park, educators were encouraged to "do good"—a call that reached classrooms, where students planted butterfly gardens to expand Rosalynn Carter’s Mental Health Initiative. 🦋🌿

🌎 In New Mexico, students who joined a LiveStream with Big Cypress National Park & Preserve were inspired to restore trails in their own communities, understanding that stewardship begins in our own backyards. 🥾🌳

✨ After watching a Voyageurs National Park Dark Skies LiveStream, students in a local town took action—advocating for redesigned lighting fixtures to reduce light pollution and preserve the beauty of the night sky. 💫🏙️

💛 And in Tennessee, a student with Down syndrome showed immense empathy and innovation by designing a humane trap for relocating signal crayfish at Crater Lake. Her prototype? A cozy bed for the crayfish to rest on during relocation—and even a photo of herself in the trap for comfort. 🦞💙

🌟 Once again—our children are leading the way. 🌟 Just like they have in the past, they will do it again for our future. Their motives are pure, unblemished, and empowered by goodness. They see challenges not as roadblocks but as opportunities to make a difference.

These moments aren’t about budgets or politics. They are about the power of human connection, discovery, and doing good. 🏕️ These are just a few of the hundreds of stories we uncover every day as part of Expeditions in Education.

📊 We did some research, and the average salary for these park rangers is $38,660. For the work they do and the impact they have, this is woefully low. Their influence on our students, our educators, and our world can't be measured in a paycheck. Their impact can't be repaid.

✨ Through National Parks, we see what is possible. ✨ Through Expeditions in Education, we help others see it too. ✨ We stand with the parks, and we stand for the future.

📢 Stay tuned for our next big thing with Expeditions in Education—because we will continue to make a difference! 🚀🌎

#WeStandWithTheParks #STEAMinthePARK #ExpeditionsInEducation #BeTheGood #NationalParkRangers #KidsLeadTheWay #StayTuned #RangersMatter

LOVE IS IN THE AIR ... EVEN IN OUR NATIONAL PARKS

2/13/2025

Tomorrow is all about LOVE, and what better way to celebrate than by sharing the amazing love stories happening in the wild? From legendary landscapes to devoted wildlife, national parks are filled with romance, mystery, and heartwarming tales. 💕✨

💙 Bryce Canyon (BRCA) – The Love of the Hoodoos According to Paiute legend, the towering hoodoos of Bryce Canyon were once ancient beings who were turned to stone. Some say these formations whisper secrets of love lost to time. Whether myth or mystery, one thing is clear—standing among the hoodoos feels like stepping into a love story written in rock.

🌲 Olympic National Park (OLYM) – Rainforest Romance Deep in the Hoh Rainforest, creatures like the Pacific tree frog engage in nightly serenades during the breeding season. Males call out to attract females, creating a symphony that fills the forest—a melodic reminder that love songs come in many forms.

🌁 Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GOGA) – The Bridge of Love The Golden Gate Bridge isn’t just an architectural wonder—it’s a home for lovebirds! Peregrine falcons, some of the world’s fastest birds, nest here, returning to the same partner and location year after year to raise their chicks. Love is in the air—literally!

🏔 Yosemite National Park (YOSE) – The Legend of El Capitan Yosemite is rich with Native American legends. One such story tells of El Capitan, where a young woman, in an act of love and sacrifice, turned to stone to save her people. Today, El Capitan stands as a testament to enduring love and bravery.

🦅 Grand Teton National Park (GRTE) – Eagle Devotion In the Tetons, bald eagles are the ultimate relationship goals! These majestic birds mate for life, returning year after year to the same nesting site. With synchronized flight and teamwork in raising their young, these soaring lovebirds show us the power of partnership.

🐻 Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GRSM) – A Bear-y Sweet Love Story In the Smokies, black bears take a unique approach to love. Mating pairs share a brief but intense connection before the female retreats into her den to raise her tiny cubs—proving that love in the wild is sometimes fleeting but always full of wonder.

🌌 Voyageurs National Park (VOYA) – A Love Written in the Stars On clear nights in Voyageurs, the northern lights dance across the sky. The Ojibwe people believe these lights are the spirits of loved ones celebrating life, a celestial display reminding us of the connections between the earth and the heavens.

🏔 Rocky Mountain National Park (ROMO) – Elk Courtship Calls Each fall, the mountains echo with the bugle calls of bull elk during the rut. These dramatic, haunting sounds serve as love songs to attract mates and remind us that love in nature is sometimes bold, loud, and full of passion!

🌊 Acadia National Park (ACAD) – The Otters Who Hold Hands In the chilly waters around Acadia, river otters can be seen floating together, holding hands while they rest. This adorable display of affection keeps them from drifting apart, proving that love (and teamwork) can withstand even the strongest currents.

🌿 Piscataway Park (Potomac River) – A Love for the Land The Piscataway people have long held a deep reverence for the lands surrounding the Potomac River. Their enduring connection to this area reflects a profound love and respect for the natural world and its preservation.

🌊 Delaware Water Gap – Swans, the Soulmates of the River Along the Delaware River, mute swans glide gracefully in pairs. These elegant birds form monogamous bonds, often lasting for life, symbolizing enduring love and partnership.

🌿 Cuyahoga Valley National Park (CUVA) – Love Along the River In Cuyahoga Valley, beavers build strong family units, working together to construct elaborate lodges and dams. These monogamous pairs show us that teamwork—and a little engineering—can build a strong foundation for love.

🎭 Sitka National Historical Park (SITK) – The Love of Legends Sitka is steeped in Tlingit culture, where the raven holds deep significance. In Tlingit mythology, Raven is a creator, a trickster, and a bringer of light. These intelligent birds mate for life, working together to raise their young and watching over Sitka’s sacred landscapes.

💚 From towering cliffs to forest serenades, nature reminds us that love is everywhere! Whether it's a lifelong bond, a seasonal romance, or a celestial celebration, our national parks are full of heartwarming love stories waiting to be discovered.
And this year, Expeditions in Education is spreading the love even further, hosting 340+ campers across these 13 incredible national park sites for STEAM in the PARK! 🌎💙

What’s your favorite national park love story? Share in the comments! 💬✨

#LoveIsInTheAir #NationalParkLove #FindYourPark #STEAMinthePARK 💕🌿

Our Promise!

2/3/2025

Things are not looking good. Education is under attack, immigrants are facing increasing hostility, the environment is suffering, and people are being targeted simply for who they are. This is not the world we want to build for future generations.

At Expeditions in Education, we stand firm in our values: being good humans, nurturing the next generation to seek the good in the world, speaking up for those without a voice, and doing everything in our power to promote kindness. Now, more than ever, we must live those values.

Education should be a beacon of hope, a path to opportunity—not a battleground for political agendas. Yet, funding is being slashed, teachers are burned out, and students are caught in the crossfire. We believe in hands-on, minds-on learning, in giving children the tools to think critically, explore boldly, and dream big. We refuse to let education become a casualty of indifference.

Immigrants, families, and entire communities are being treated as outsiders when they have always been part of the fabric of this country. The targeting of people based on where they come from, what they look like, or who they are is unacceptable. We teach our students to stand up for what is right, to be voices of compassion in a world that too often chooses cruelty.

Meanwhile, our environment—the very foundation of life—is being neglected and exploited. National parks, forests, and oceans should be protected for future generations, yet they are being sacrificed for short-term gain. The young people we work with deserve to inherit a world that is thriving, not one that has been stripped of its beauty and resources.

Through education, through action, and through kindness, we can push back against the forces that seek to divide and harm. We must take care of each other when no one else will.

This is our promise: We will continue to inspire young minds to explore, to ask questions, to care deeply, and to take action. We will teach them to look for the good, to stand up for what is right, and to leave this world better than they found it. Because that’s what good humans do.

Expeditions in Education: 2024 Year in Review

1/24/2025

As we reflect on 2024, we are filled with gratitude, awe, and hope for what lies ahead. This year has been nothing short of extraordinary, and we are thrilled to share the highlights of what we’ve accomplished together.

National Parks Visited
This year, we explored 25 national parks across the United States, connecting with students and educators in some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the world. From the majestic peaks of Pinnacles National Park to the historic beauty of San Juan National Historical Park, every park offered unique opportunities for learning and connection.

Students and Educators Impacted
Our mission to inspire through education and exploration reached new heights in 2024. Over 1,245,003 students and educators engaged with our resources, attended our events, or participated in virtual programming. Your enthusiasm and passion keep us moving forward!

Through a grant with the National Park Foundation and the Save the Dunes Foundation, we were able to reach another 72,000 students with the Great Lakes Odyssey. This 3-week "on the road" tour of six Great Lakes Parks, in partnership with the Great Lakes Research and Science Center, brought the wonders of these unique ecosystems to life.

We also celebrated our 3rd year of Crossing America with the National Park Foundation, and it was another huge success! This year’s program included 6 LiveStreams and 10 school visits, further showcasing how vital NPF is as a collaborator in bringing education and inspiration to communities nationwide.

STEAM in the PARK
We hosted 12 STEAM in the PARK camps this summer, welcoming 389 participants to immersive, hands-on learning experiences in national parks. These camps are the heart of what we do, blending science, technology, engineering, arts, and math with the natural world.

New Content and Resources
Our team worked tirelessly to create and share over 200 new pieces of content on our website, providing educators and learners with fresh, innovative tools and ideas to connect classrooms with nature.

New Books Published
In 2024, we proudly published 15 new books focused on teaching, learning, and the wonders of national parks. Each story, resource, and guide is a testament to the power of storytelling and education.

Miles Traveled
Our journey took us across the country, logging over 70,000 miles flown and another 50,000 miles driven. Every mile was worth it to bring the magic of national parks to communities far and wide.

New Friendships and Reunions
Perhaps the most meaningful part of this year has been the connections we’ve made and rekindled. From new friendships born in the field to reunions with old friends and collaborators, these relationships are the foundation of our work.

Looking Ahead to 2025
As we prepare for a new year, our mantra is "Eyes and Hearts Wide Open." With this guiding principle, we aim to inspire even more humans to bring the light. Here’s a glimpse of what’s to come:

20 New National Park Sites: Expanding our reach to even more incredible locations.
13 STEAM in the PARK Camps: Adding 6 new camps to our roster, bringing the total to 13 in 2025
1.5 Million Interactions: Connecting with even more students and educators.
10+ School Visits: Bringing BIG science shows and hands-on learning directly to schools.
New Books and Content: Continuing to publish and create resources that inspire.
"Find Your People" Initiative: Welcoming new educators to this supportive community.
Three New Programs: Exciting announcements are on the horizon!

A Bright Future
In a world that often feels dark, we remain committed to being a source of light and inspiration. Together, we can foster curiosity, creativity, and a deep love for the natural world.

Thank you for being part of this incredible journey. Here’s to a remarkable 2025 with Eyes and Hearts Wide Open!

Writing to Preserve Memories

1/24/2025

My mom was an incredible storyteller. She journaled constantly, and her writings have been such a gift to me. Inspired by her, I started gathering my own journals, post-it notes, and random scribbles, and put them all into PAGES on my computer.

In January 2023, I began writing The Adventures of Marvin & Huck, a series based on our National Park blogs. By January 2024, I felt inspired to try something different—a memoir of my life. And from there, I just couldn’t stop. I started reflecting on the stories I’ve shared with teachers, the memories I’ve heard from park rangers, and my own experiences growing up. These books aren’t professionally written, and I’m publishing them myself, but they come from the heart.

Today, I’m sharing this on what would have been my mom’s 82nd birthday. It feels like the perfect time to honor her and her love of storytelling by sharing my own journey with writing.

If you’re interested in learning more about our newest books, you can check them out and order directly from us at https://www.expeditionsineducation.org/ourbooks.html

All proceeds go to our nonprofit, Expeditions in Education, to support educators and programs across the country.

I don’t think of myself as an author—just a collector of memories. Writing has been a gift for me, and I hope these stories can be a gift to others.

Expeditions in Education: Parks A-D Adventure Newsletter

1/13/2025

🌍 Over 170 National Park Sites & Counting!

Since 2019, we’ve had the incredible privilege of visiting and filming at over 170 national park sites across the country! From caves to coastlines and deserts to forests, every park has something unique to teach us. We’ve met incredible rangers who bring these places to life with their stories and knowledge. In this edition, we kick off a series of ABC Highlights to showcase some of the amazing parks we've visited. Find these videos and others HERE!

🏞️ Acadia National Park, ME
🌉 Highlight: Rockefeller Bridges
Located on Maine’s rocky coast, Acadia is known for its stunning views, historic carriage roads, and incredible biodiversity. We explored the iconic Rockefeller Bridges with Rangers Kate and Lisa, who shared fascinating insights about the park’s history and wildlife. And did you know Cadillac Mountain is the first place in the U.S. to see the sunrise? We got up early to catch the breathtaking view.

⛓️ Alcatraz Island, CA
🔍 Highlight: Untold Stories
While famous for its prison history, Alcatraz Island is also home to unique flora and fauna, plus a rich Native American heritage. Ranger Benny guided us through its history, not just of the prison but also the island’s untold stories, including the 1969 Native American occupation that demanded better treatment for Indigenous people. Exploring Alcatraz was both haunting and inspiring!

🐴 Assateague Island National Seashore, MD/VA
❄️ Highlight: Wild Horses in the Sleet
Assateague is famous for its wild horses, believed to be descendants of those brought by early European settlers. Despite a January sleet storm, Rangers Liz and Matt shared stories about the island’s history and how these resilient horses survive the tough coastal environment. Seeing them roaming freely, even in a storm, was magical!

🌿 Big Cypress National Preserve, FL
🌀 Highlight: Swamp Walking Adventure
Big Cypress, a vast expanse of swamps and wetlands, is critical for preserving the unique Everglades ecosystem. Ranger Lisa guided us through knee-deep water as we explored this biodiverse preserve. We saw towering cypress trees, countless birds, and tiny frogs—and kept an eye out for any submerged surprises!

🌊 Biscayne National Park, FL
🚤 Highlight: Exploring by Boat
With 95% of the park underwater, Biscayne National Park is best explored by boat. Rangers Carrie and Liz guided us through coral reefs, mangroves, and shipwrecks as we learned about its importance as a marine sanctuary. The vibrant underwater world is home to countless species, making it a treasure trove for conservation and marine life enthusiasts.

🧗 Bryce Canyon National Park, UT
🦝 Highlight: Hoodoos & Prairie Dogs
Famous for its unique hoodoos—towering rock spires carved by erosion—Bryce Canyon offers stunning landscapes and fascinating wildlife. Ranger Keith taught us about the delicate balance of this desert ecosystem, including the vital role prairie dogs play. Sunrise over the canyon was nothing short of magical.

✈️ Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park, OH
💨 Highlight: Flying Hats & Wright Brothers History
This park celebrates the legacy of the Wright Brothers, pioneers of modern aviation. Ranger Bob gave us a tour of key historical sites, and the blustery wind made for a funny moment as Ranger Kathleen’s hat flew off—fitting for a park focused on flight!

🌌 Carlsbad Caverns National Park, NM
🕳️ Highlight: 700 Feet Underground
Carlsbad Caverns features over 100 caves carved from limestone by ancient water flow. We joined Ranger Dan, an archaeological geologist, 700 feet underground to marvel at the park’s massive stalactites and stalagmites. Exploring this vast underground world was both humbling and awe-inspiring.

🚨 Cape Cod National Seashore, MA
🦈 Highlight: Life-Saving Stations & Sharks
Cape Cod’s beautiful beaches are known for their historic life-saving stations, which once protected mariners from treacherous seas. Rangers Aleutia and Bill told us about the heroic rescues, while Ranger Mark taught us all about Cape Cod’s thriving shark population and ongoing conservation efforts.

🏛️ Casa Grande Ruins National Monument, AZ
📜 Highlight: The Big House
This ancient site, built by the Hohokam people, features the "Big House," an architectural marvel of its time. Rangers Sarah and Andrea shared stories about the people who lived in the Sonoran Desert and how their ingenuity shaped the landscape.

🌟 César E. Chávez National Monument, CA
🌳 Highlight: Inspiration from a Civil Rights Icon
This park honors the legacy of César Chávez and the farmworkers' movement. Ranger Miranda shared her passion for the outdoors and told us how she was inspired by her mother to continue Chávez’s fight for justice and equality.

❄️ Chaco Culture National Historical Park, NM
🏺 Highlight: Snowstorm & Ancient Ruins
Despite a New Mexico snowstorm, Ranger RisingBuffalo guided us through Chaco’s ancient ruins, which were once the center of a vibrant Ancestral Puebloan civilization. We learned about their advanced architecture and how the buildings align with celestial events.

🐾 Crater Lake National Park, OR
🦎 Highlight: Newts & Crystal Blue Waters
Crater Lake, formed by the collapse of an ancient volcano, is the deepest lake in the U.S. Its crystal-clear waters are mesmerizing. Ranger John introduced us to the park’s endemic newts, explaining how they’ve adapted to this unique environment.

🏝️ Cumberland Island National Seashore, GA
🐎 Highlight: Horses, History & Pristine Beauty
This protected island is known for its wild horses, historic mansions, and unspoiled beaches. Ranger Robin gave us a tour of the island, sharing stories about the Carnegie family and the island’s fascinating history.

🚶 Cuyahoga Valley National Park, OH
🌲 Highlight: Reviving Nature
Once an industrial corridor, Cuyahoga Valley is now a beautiful expanse of forests, wetlands, and scenic trails. Ranger Rebecca told us the story of its transformation and the ongoing efforts to protect its ecosystems.

🔥 Death Valley National Park, CA
🌌 Highlight: Hot Days & Dark Skies
Known as the hottest place on Earth, Death Valley also boasts some of the best stargazing in the world. Ranger Rhys shared stories about the desert’s extreme climate and the breathtaking night skies.

🏞️ Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, NJ/PA
🥾 Highlight: Protecting Scenic Trails
This park is a paradise for hikers and outdoor lovers, with miles of scenic trails and pristine rivers. Rangers Dani and Neal shared their work to protect these natural resources and the wildlife that call the park home.

🐢 Dry Tortugas National Park, FL
🌊 Highlight: Sea Turtles, Fort Jefferson & Sailor!
This remote park, accessible only by boat or seaplane, is home to stunning coral reefs and the historic Fort Jefferson. Ranger Curtis took us on a boat ride to visit sea turtle nesting sites and introduced us to his dog, Sailor, who charmed everyone on board!

🌟 That’s a Wrap on A-D Parks!
Stay tuned for next month’s newsletter, where we’ll dive into our adventures at Parks E-H. Want to join the journey or have a park story of your own? Drop us a note at [email protected]

Happy Exploring,
Dacia & Steve

Eyes and Heart Wide Open: My Words for 2025

1/11/2025

I’m a little late sharing my word (or in this case, words) for 2025 because I’ve been reflecting deeply on what I truly want this year to represent. After much thought, my guiding words for the year are "Eyes and Heart Wide Open." They are a reminder to approach each day with curiosity, kindness, and an unwavering sense of wonder.

Whether I’m walking beneath towering trees, gazing at a starlit sky, or feeling the crisp air of a mountain morning, nature has a way of grounding us and expanding our perspective. Connecting with nature allows us to truly see and feel—not just the beauty of the world around us, but the potential within ourselves and others. It teaches us to listen, not just to the sounds of the wild, but to the quiet wisdom within.

But let’s be honest—sometimes the noise of the world can interfere. The busyness, distractions, and negativity can drown out the things that truly matter. In those moments, we must remind ourselves: we control what we hear and allow into our hearts. We can choose to tune out the noise and make space for the whispers of the wind, the songs of the birds, and the truths that nature so generously offers.

"And into the forest I go, to lose my mind and find my soul." – John Muir

This year, I want to challenge myself—and others—to lean into that understanding. To let the call of a loon or the rustling of leaves awaken a sense of connection. To let the vastness of a mountain range or the resilience of a tiny wildflower inspire courage.

With eyes wide open, I hope to see the opportunities to make a difference. With a heart wide open, I want to embrace the people and moments that make life extraordinary. Together, let’s celebrate nature’s ability to connect us, heal us, and remind us that we are part of something so much greater.

What does opening your eyes and heart to the world around you look like this year? Let’s take this journey together—one step, one trail, and one breathtaking view at a time. 💚🌿✨

Honoring the Legacy of Jimmy Carter

12/29/2024

Today, we join the nation in mourning the passing of President Jimmy Carter, a man whose life embodied kindness, humility, and service. Over the past four years, we have had the incredible honor of working alongside the Jimmy Carter National Historical Park and the Jimmy Carter Education Program (JICA) to help share the stories of Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter with a new generation.

Through our work, we’ve grown to love not only the Carters but also the incredible community that surrounds their legacy. We’ve walked the same paths Jimmy once traveled, shared meals with community members and family in Plains, and seen firsthand the impact of his dedication to service, peace, and humanity.

We have also hosted STEAM in the PARK camps and retreats at the Jimmy Carter National Historical Park over the past few years. These programs have brought together educators from around the country, fostering a deeper understanding of the Carters' values and their unwavering commitment to building a better world. During these times, we’ve witnessed the transformative power of community and kindness—values that Jimmy Carter held close to his heart and exemplified throughout his life.

Jimmy Carter’s life reminds us of the profound power of ordinary people doing extraordinary things. From his leadership as President to his tireless work with Habitat for Humanity and his unshakable commitment to human rights, he inspired countless individuals to make a difference in their own communities.

Our time in Plains has been transformative. We’ve shared laughter, stories, and a deep sense of purpose with the people who continue to carry forward his legacy. Together, we’ve helped bring the Carters' vision and values to life for students, educators, and visitors from around the world.

While we are heartbroken to hear of his passing, our hearts are also full. Full of gratitude for the time we’ve spent at Jimmy Carter National Historical Park. Full of admiration for the man who showed us all what it means to lead with love and compassion. And full of hope knowing that his legacy lives on in every person touched by his life and work.

Jimmy Carter’s story is far from over. It continues in the lives he changed and in the hearts of those who carry his spirit forward. May we all strive to live with the same grace and dedication he exemplified every day.

Rest in peace, President Carter. Your light will never dim. ❤️