Our naturalists are the backbone of the Everglades Insitute. Every once in a while, we like to show our appreciation by highlighting their stories. This month, we are highlighting our Everglades naturalist, Stewy!
Stewy grew up in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where his love for the outdoors began early. His first national park experience—backpacking in Isle Royale at age 6—sparked a deep connection to wild places. Summers spent road-tripping with his family to national and state parks only strengthened that bond. Stewy later received a job opportunity in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area in northeast Minnesota, leading 7-to-14-day youth trips. During these trips, he saw firsthand how powerful nature can be—for healing, learning, and self-discovery. That experience sent him on a path to pursue outdoor work more seriously.
“Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to work in some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes—Wyoming, North Carolina, Georgia, Utah, Alaska, Minnesota, and Canada. Each place offered something unique, and I fell in love with the wilderness of every state. From the calm lakes of Minnesota to the dramatic peaks of Alaska, each experience deepened my appreciation for the land and the lessons it offers.
For me, working in nature is about more than adventure—it’s about helping others discover the growth, clarity, and connection that only the outdoors can provide. I believe everyone should have the opportunity to experience that.”
Thank you, Stewy!
