Why Adventure Education Feels Like Home - Reflections from a New CEO

Written on 04/08/2026
Mien Patrick Mombo

Association for Experiential Education

 
Why Adventure Education Feels Like Home - Reflections from a New CEO
In her first year as President & CEO of the Princeton-Blairstown Center, Kerri Strauss reflects on how adventure education serves as a powerful equalizer that fosters psychological safety and personal growth for both students and adults. By removing academic and social pressures, Kerri highlights how the natural environment creates a unique space where participants can build resilience, find belonging, and more fully become themselves.
“One of the most powerful things I’ve witnessed so far is how quickly a sense of belonging can take root when young people feel seen and supported. Before any harness is clipped or paddle hits the water, our facilitators focus on creating psychological safety. That foundation allows challenge to become opportunity rather than threat.”