Lander, Wyo. - January 8, 2001 -- The National Outdoor Leadership School recently completed an $8 million endowment to further the school's mission as the world's leader in wilderness education.

The endowment, which took only five years to complete, will be used to fund the school's growing scholarship program, as well as outreach efforts such as the internationally recognized Leave No Trace effort. Last year, 459 students were able to explore a portion of the world's great wilderness areas through scholarships. The school is working to expand that reach in the coming years.

"It was an extraordinary campaign," noted Mark Cole, director of development for NOLS. "The generosity of our alumni and friends was amazing. We had donors from all walks of life who demonstrated their deep commitment to the school in many forms."

Cole noted that more than 80 percent of the commitments are already in the door, further making this campaign unusual. "In most endowment campaigns, as much as 50-60 percent of the gifts are deferred for a number of years," said Cole.

"It was gratifying to work with people who wanted to support NOLS," continued Cole. "Our alumni feel passionate about how NOLS has helped shape them as people and they want to help other people have the NOLS experience."

Cole noted that Sarah Pierce, associate director of development and major gifts, was particularly instrumental in helping to complete the campaign.

Contact:
Mark Cole
(307) 335-2259
NOLS Headquarters