The Silberman Program in Conservation and Outdoor Education

A brand-new program for Pennington was established in 2025 by Lynn and Steve Silberman ‘68 to cultivate student understanding of ecological systems, conservation principles, and environmental stewardship through a comprehensive program of education, research, and experiential learning that fosters both knowledge of and care for the natural world.

School administrators and faculty are developing programming for this new initiative, which will launch in the 2026-27 school year.

The Silberman Program was created to develop student understanding as informed environmental stewards through a variety of approaches, which include:

Conservation Education

Providing structured learning experiences in ecological principles, biodiversity, habitat conservation, sustainable resource use, environmental policy, and the ethical dimensions of human relationships with the natural world

Field Research and Study

Engaging students in hands-on investigation of local ecosystems, wildlife populations, water quality, forest health, and other environmental systems, developing skills in scientific observation, data collection, and analysis

Environmental Service and Stewardship Projects

Creating opportunities for students to participate in habitat restoration, conservation monitoring, and other activities that contribute directly to environmental protection

Outdoor Experiential Learning

Fostering direct experience in natural settings through camping, hiking, fishing, and other outdoor pursuits that deepen students’ personal connection to wild places and inform their conservation value

Community Engagement

Building partnerships with conservation organizations, environmental agencies, nature centers, and other institutions to expand program reach and impact

 

Program Elements for 2026-27