To the Editor:
Stepping into the role of president and CEO at Princeton-Blairstown Center has been a bit like stepping onto a ropes course for the first time: exhilarating, humbling, and full of moments that remind me why immersive outdoor experiences matter. I’ve spent my first year listening — really listening — to young people, educators, facilitators, and community partners who trust adventure education to spark growth. I’m deeply learning about belonging, and the power of observing, listening, and letting the environment teach.
In my role, I have the privilege of seeing firsthand how transformative high-quality summer programs can be for young people. These immersive outdoor experiences build confidence, leadership, and resilience. Yet too many children in our community still lack access to enriching summer opportunities that support their academic, social, and emotional growth.
Summer should be a season of possibility, not disparity. Research consistently shows that students without access to structured, high-quality programs are more likely to experience learning loss, decreased engagement, and widening opportunity gaps. Meanwhile, students who participate in well-designed summer learning experiences return to school more prepared, more confident, and more connected to their peers and communities.
Princeton is a town that deeply values education, equity, and the well-being of its young people. Ensuring that all students, regardless of family income, neighborhood, or background, can participate in meaningful summer programs is an extension of those values. This is not simply about recreation; it is about creating pathways to long-term success.
Local organizations, including ours, are committed to expanding access. But sustainable progress requires collaboration: schools, nonprofits, municipal partners, and philanthropic supporters working together to remove financial barriers and increase program capacity. When we coordinate our efforts, we can ensure that every child has the chance to learn, explore, and thrive during the summer months.
I encourage our community to continue investing in these opportunities and to recognize summer learning as an essential component of a strong and equitable educational ecosystem. The benefits extend far beyond a single season; they shape confident leaders, engaged citizens, and a more vibrant community for all.