Freshman Camp began the same way all Springfield College programs begin: as a way to educate students in spirit, mind, and body for leadership in service to others. The program that came to be known as Outdoor Pursuits puts students in an outdoor setting to teach them group living dynamics, environmental awareness, outdoor living skills, and self-discovery. The camping is fun and challenging, but, as the students come to learn, it’s a means to an end. The process of learning to build a fire is more important than the actual fire. While some of the specific programming has changed over the years, the way students learn to work as a group and become independent learners has remained constant. One of the most important lessons students learn is a better understanding of the type of person they want to become. When Ted France ’91, G’93, professor of physical education, was a student at Outdoor Pursuits, by the end of camp he discovered what type of teacher he wanted to be. France credits this to his faculty and staff mentors, a thread he still sees happening at camp 25 years later. “They weren’t telling me what to do. They were creating opportunities for me to explore, to try things, to fail, to be successful. They were always there to help me assess, reflect, and get better,” said France. Now in its 90th year, Outdoor Pursuits has stayed true to its mission and the mission of the College. In honor of this important program, please join us for a reunion celebrating 90 years of Outdoor Pursuits on June 8.