ESF Science Corps
Connecting campus and community through volunteerism and learning.
Science Corps offers year-round programming designed to connect the ESF campus with the greater Central New York community. We do this by training and activating a dynamic volunteer force of ESF student employees from all majors, class years, and backgrounds to lead STEM education with regional schools and organizations.
Through our programs, ESF student volunteers gain experience in developing, coordinating, and carrying out educational programming on campus, in the classroom, and at community events. In return, K-12 students are introduced to academic opportunities at ESF and career paths in environmental science and STEM. We also engage ESF faculty and staff in our programs for real-world connections to areas of active research!
Choose your path to learn more!
Thanks for your interest in helping inspire the next generation of environmental champions!
ESF Science Corps welcomes student volunteers from all majors, class years, and backgrounds! Email Olivia Whitmarsh ([email protected]) to start the process of becoming a volunteer, and join the email group to hear about upcoming opportunities.
K-12 Outreach offers several student employment opportunities during the academic year and summer. Check us out on Handshake for more info!
ESF faculty and staff are essential to the success of our programming! Faculty and staff are encouraged to reach out to Olivia Whitmarsh ([email protected]) to express interest in supporting K-12 Outreach efforts.
ESF Science Corps delivers year-round STEM education for K-12 educators and community organizations. All programs are taught by ESF students, faculty, and staff, who are passionate about inspiring the next generation of environmental champions!
Campus and Classroom Visits
Throughout the year, we host school groups on our Syracuse campus and visit local classrooms. Students learn about our cutting-edge research, academic programs, and the impactful work we’re doing to improve our world. We can tailor a visit to complement your science curriculum, ensure grade-level areas of emphasis, or introduce your students to something new.
We are also excited to support your group on field experiences such as stream sampling, bio blitzes, and other special events or field trips that take place in locations other than ESF or your school/organization site.
If your school or organization would like to collaborate, please complete our Collaboration Request Form!
I'd Like to Schedule a Visit >
ESF Science Corps Community Tutoring
During the academic year, ESF students offer regular tutoring sessions in local libraries, schools, and community sites. Virtual options are available in addition to in-person sessions!
All tutoring sessions are led by current ESF students from a variety of majors and class years.
Connect with Olivia Whitmarsh ([email protected]) to learn more, including this semester’s schedule and how to become a tutoring host site!
Young Naturalist
The Young Naturalist program provides environmental education and outreach at local libraries in partnership with the Izaak Walton League of America’s CNY Chapter. All lessons are led by current ESF students!
Check out the Young Naturalist Instagram and website for upcoming programs. For more info, or to express interest in hosting Young Naturalist programming, reach out to Olivia Whitmarsh ([email protected]).
Summer Science Corps
Each week during the summer, we’re thrilled to host a different group of middle and high school students who participate in immersive STEM programming. We offer activities emphasizing environmental stewardship, field and lab work, innovative research, and community-building. In addition to spending time at ESF’s Syracuse campus, we also make outings to other locations including Onondaga Lake Park, Green Lakes State Park, and ESF’s regional campuses!
To express interest in hosting Summer Science Corps for a week of summer programming, please email Olivia Whitmarsh ([email protected]).
