Seven NC High School Students Embark on Wilderness Adventure with Catawba College’s REACH Program

After participating in the National Environmental Summit this past July, seven high school students from North Carolina took their learning to the next level by venturing into the wilderness as part of Catawba College’s REACH (Recreation and Educational Adventures Challenging Highschoolers) Program. These young adventurers engaged in a six-night backpacking trek through Panthertown Valley in Western North Carolina, where they camped under the stars and explored the region's rich biodiversity, including its unique plants, animals, and breathtaking waterfalls.

The immersive experience fostered a deeper appreciation for nature and sparked curiosity and engagement with environmental science. The REACH program aims to provide hands-on learning opportunities.

“Learning about the varying species of parasites caught my interest; it heightened my curiosity since I wasn't fully aware of all the capabilities of these dangerous yet helpful creatures,” said Camille Turner, a REACH participant.

REACH is a new initiative within Catawba College’s Center for the Environment designed to transform the educational landscape for high school students. As a free outdoor leadership and science program, it empowers students through place-based learning while promoting Catawba’s core values of Scholarship, Character, Culture, and Service. The program strives to break down barriers and cultivate a spirit of curiosity, equipping the next generation of diverse leaders in STEM fields with unique experiences in nature.

“REACH is not just about outdoor adventures; it’s about inspiring young minds to explore and understand the world around them,” said Erin Witalison, the program coordinator for REACH. “We believe that by connecting students with nature, we can foster a love for the environment and encourage them to find their passions for science and the outdoors.”

Participants in the REACH program are selected based on their enthusiasm for environmental issues and desire to develop leadership skills. Throughout their journey in Panthertown Valley, students engaged in various activities, from identifying local flora and fauna to participating in team-building exercises emphasizing collaboration and problem-solving.

Catawba’s Center for the Environment is committed to creating inclusive and transformative educational opportunities that empower youth to become stewards of the environment. As the REACH program continues to grow, it aims to reach more students across North Carolina, inspiring them to take an active role in preserving our natural world.

For more information about the REACH program and how to get involved, please visit catawba.edu/reach/ or contact Erin Witalison at REACH@catawba.edu.

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