Through a partnership with the Student Conservation Association and Teton Science Schools, plus matching private funds from the Foundation, we hosted our first NPS Academy to introduce college students to careers with the National Park Service. Twenty-nine students with diverse backgrounds spent spring break learning about the NPS and exploring the park; and from all indications, that single week changed their lives and those of our employees. The students connected to the incomparable landscape as they considered their future and their legacy: they formed meaningful relationships with each other and reinvigorated park staff. This pilot program turned into something greater than we’d imagined, and we intend to spread its vitality and success. The next step places students into summer internships at national parks across the country. Through the help of our partners, Grand Teton will influence present and future generations as it develops new land stewards and conservation advocates.
Another significant project involves the David T. Vernon Indian Art Collection. With help from the Foundation, we will better protect these artifacts that were gifted by Laurance Rockefeller and are unique within the NPS. Planning is underway for displaying and interpreting representative pieces while also preserving the collection through proper museum procedures. In 2005, half of the collection was sent to Tucson’s Western Archeological and Conservation Center for curatorial treatment; the other half will receive treatment this fall. Colter Bay Visitor Center will be rehabilitated and several pieces returned in 2012 to special exhibit cases in Colter Bay and Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center. This project will conserve the collection and improve understanding of its inherent value as a part of America’s heritage.
The Discovery Center’s auditorium opened in mid-April and already it’s become an integral part of the visitor center experience: a cozy and inspiring spot. Foundation donors provided 100% of the funding for construction, completing the facility as it was originally intended and creating an impressive space to showcase educational presentations.
Through our dedicated workforce and dynamic partners, we are advancing truly innovative and beneficial initiatives. It’s an exciting time to join hands, hearts and minds to care for a precious landscape we all dearly love.
The Discovery Center’s auditorium opened in mid-April and already it’s become an integral part of the visitor center experience: a cozy and inspiring spot. Foundation donors provided 100% of the funding for construction, completing the facility as it was originally intended and creating an impressive space to showcase educational presentations.
Through our dedicated workforce and dynamic partners, we are advancing truly innovative and beneficial initiatives. It’s an exciting time to join hands, hearts and minds to care for a precious landscape we all dearly love.
