New England Science & Sailing 2022 Annual Report

NESS creates a love of learning through ocean-based experiential programs that serve schools, teachers, and families. This STEM-based programming includes marine science, sailing, power boating, and adventure sports

Letter from NESS CEO, Dr. Eric Isselhardt

Dear Friends,

I am often asked, “What does NESS do?” Of course, I know the answer to that in all of its variations — we’re an education organization; we use sailing, marine science, power boating, and ocean exploration as learning platforms; we’re accredited and standards- based; and our work results in building social and emotional skills. All true. All important descriptors. And, of course, yes, we do those things and more. Those are the experiential practical “what” answers to NESS’s work with students. But the more I answered that way, the more I was convinced we needed to say more.

I began to think that the “what” question is not just about describing our activities with students but also asking, “What is the result of your work with students?” That is a much more personal and perhaps revealing part of the question that determines NESS’s impact on each student.

So, I changed my answer to this: What NESS “does” is transform students’ lives, one student at a time. Everything else we do is deliberately designed to support that particular outcome. That transformational work with students is not straightforward—it takes all of us bringing patience, resources, training, and skill to each learner moment. It requires us to meet students where they are—understanding that building opportunities.

The impact of that opportunity-building work is extraordinary. We see students’ joy of accomplishment every day multiplied by the thousands of students we reach each year. And each student’s transformation to greater confidence, stickier persistence, teamwork awareness, and better communication illustrates that our mission and programs are much more than words and images on a website or groups to teach. That transformation comes from a student’s unique journey guided by trust and the deliberate intent of the NESS community, including you!

You are part of the NESS community. You stand with us next to each student NESS reaches. Thank you for being so supportive as we all continue that work.

Sincerely,
Dr. Eric Isselhardt
CEO