
Tracy Larson
Education Program Manager
As Education Program Manager, Tracy is responsible for working with schools, youth-serving organizations, and partners to collaboratively design outdoor learning experiences that center the learner through hands-on, experiential, place-based activities.
She also supports the Thrive Outside Initiative, which is addressing equity barriers to the outdoors, such as safety, walkability, transportation cost, and cultural inclusion.
Tracy brings a varied background both professionally and personally. Her career started as a Social Studies teacher in urban settings, working primarily with K-12 students on the autism spectrum. Her love for geography and cultures led her to take a leap of faith in transitioning to the travel industry. She specialized in accessible outdoor adventure and extending student academic learning to their travels abroad.
She believes that nature makes children happier, healthier, and smarter, and her mission is to advocate for and develop equitable opportunities for youth to experience the great outdoors both near to and far from home.
Education:
BES in Human Relations and Women Studies - St. Cloud State University
Graduate Certificate in Conflict Transformation - School for International Training
MS in Urban Education - Metropolitan State University
Affiliations:
Board Member - Friends of Freedom Park
Interests:
Tracy enjoys traveling, gardening, restoring native prairies and savannas, camping, and spending time with family & friends.