Look forward to TWO social media livestreams from our NOLS Campus directors on Monday, 6/8.
-Rocky Mountain Campus at 9:45 am MT
-Alaska Campus at 1:15 pm MT
And a special message from NOLS President Sandy Colhoun.
Today by TJ HillingerCheck out our newest student testimonial focusing on our WEMT course offering! Your donation matters!
1 day ago by TJ HillingerElevating the Leader for Over 60 Years.
On June 8, 2026, we celebrate our 61st Founders Day, marking the moment in 1965 when Paul Petzoldt and a team of instructors led the first students into Wyoming’s Wind River Range with a bold vision: leadership is learned through experience.
Over 60 years later, that vision still drives us.
Today, more students are ready for that experience, but not all have access. We’re proud to launch our fourth annual Founders Day Campaign—an ambitious effort to fuel the future of NOLS. Your gift to our 2026 Founders Day Campaign helps a student take that first step. Your support can help equip a student for the field, support critical instruction in wilderness medicine, and can help fund a 30-day course, the core of our curriculum — along with all of our life-changing work. Every gift opens the door to transformative experiences.
Right now, your impact goes even further: a generous partner will match all Founders Day contributions dollar-for-dollar, doubling the impact of your gift and the opportunities you make possible.
Join us in honoring #NolsFoundersDay.
Make a gift. Share your NOLS story. Help us write the next chapter.
Donors
View All Donors
| Donors | Donors | Raised ($) |
|---|---|---|
| 1990s Decade (1990 - 1999) | 27 | $11,120 |
| 2010s Decade (2010 - 2019) | 11 | $2,025 |
| 1970s Decade (1970 - 1979) | 15 | $12,250 |
| Future NOLS Grad! | 1 | $50 |
| 2020s Decade (2020-2026) | 11 | $2,095 |
| 1960s Decade (1965 - 1969) | 1 | $100 |
| 2000s Decade (2000 - 2009) | 13 | $4,580 |
| 1980s Decade (1980 - 1989) | 14 | $7,800 |
Advocates
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Katrina Peterson
Scott and JoEllyn Bass
Olivia Ferriter
Halle Cane
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Scott and JoEllyn Bass
Become an Advocate and be recognized for your impact!
Share with your Network
Share the campaign to track the number of clicks, gifts and dollars you generate (Note: If you share without signing up or logging in, your impact will be counted as Community Advocate)
Inspire your Friends & Peers
Encourage others to give with a Matching Gift or Challenge.
Tell your Story
Create a Personal Video encouraging others to join you in supporting the campaign.