EXPOSE
Creative Ways NOLS Pivoted During COVID By Anne McGowan Development Communications Coordinator
The Wilderness Risk Management Conference, previously held annually in person, moved online in 2021 with enthusiastic support from attendees. Illustration by Kacie DeKleine, photo courtesy of Gabi Kilko-Jackson
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n a recent evening at NOLS headquarters, Alumni Relations Coordinator Aimee Newsom closed her computer and smiled. “That was a great group of grads,” she said. “There were 23 participants, all really engaged. And the speaker was terrific!” Aimee was hosting a virtual gathering, one of dozens NOLS has held since last May when it became apparent that, because of the coronavirus pandemic, NOLS’ popular in-person reunions were no longer possible. The first gathering last spring featured a tour of NOLS’ Noble Hotel in Lander, where many alumni have stayed before and after their courses. Since then, topics have included outdoor and wilderness medicine skills, NOLS history, outdoor photography, and chats with the president. “I think graduates and non-grads alike are thankful for the opportunity to connect with NOLS online right now,” Aimee said. “We’ve seen grads, parents of grads, prospective students, and even folks who have only ever heard of NOLS in passing logged in for our events.” Aimee is always looking for speakers, teachers, and experts who love NOLS and are interested in sharing their knowledge online. “We’re open to all sorts of topics and would love to hear from folks who have ideas,” she said.
