The Sigurd Olson Environmental Institute (SOEI) at Northland College celebrated its 35^th anniversary with a free event Friday, September 14 at 5 p.m. Stacy Schaefer, environmental education coordinator at the Institute, encouraged the public to attend. “This is something we can share with the community,” said Schaefer. “It’s a celebration of our place in the Northwoods.”

Since its founding in 1972, the SOEI has worked with citizens to build environmental awareness, encourage responsible actions, and forge lasting solutions to environmental challenges in the Lake Superior region. The Institute’s namesake, Sigurd F. Olson (1899-1982), is one of America’s most beloved nature writers and most influential conservationists of the 20^th century. He is best known as the author of nine books about the North Country. In 1974 he won the prestigious John Burroughs medal for his book, Wilderness Days.

The anniversary event included a presentation by David Backes, a well-respected Olson scholar, entitled “Holding Fast to a Dream: Life Lessons from Sigurd F. Olson.” The presentation was held in the Sentry Room of the SOEI building and consisted of an inspirational slideshow highlighting the 50^th anniversary of two of Olson’s books—The Singing Wilderness and Listening Point. Backes is a professor of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, and is well-known for his biography of Olson, A Wilderness Within. The event also began with the unveiling of an interpretative display case containing some of Olson’s personal possessions and dedicated to his multifaceted legacy.

Schaefer was pleased the celebration engaged people with the knowledge Olson shared through his teaching and writing. Guests also had the opportunity to mingle with current student workers and get a better sense of the work the Institute is doing. “I want the students to represent the work they’ve done and let guests see how that work represents the Institute’s mission,” said Schaefer.

Schaefer is proud of the Institute’s accomplishments and perseverance. “Throughout our stages of change, we should look forward at our goals, at the virtues that we instill in our planning,” said Schaefer. “35 years as an educational organization in the Northwoods is worth a celebration—it’s a huge accomplishment.”

For more information please contact the Institute at (715) 682-1223 or go to: www.northland.edu/soei.