The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center’s Education Department experienced meaningful growth in 2025, expanding public engagement, increasing program offerings, and strengthening professional and community outreach. These gains reflect our continued commitment to accessible, high-quality conservation education across Alaska.
Below are the areas where we saw clear, measurable growth this year.
Commercial Tours & Encounters: More Programs, More Opportunities
In 2025, Commercial Tours & Encounters reached 13,783 guests across 799 programs, with program offerings increasing by over 12% compared to last year.
Key growth highlights include:
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Walk on the Wild Side Tours
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1,221 guests, up nearly 25%
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222 programs, a 10% increase
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Step-on-Guide & Walking Tours
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9,079 guests, a 5% increase
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420 programs, an 18% increase
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This growth reflects strong visitor demand for immersive, educator-led experiences that deepen understanding of Alaska’s wildlife.
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- Moose Encounter
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- WOW Tour
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- Walking Tour
Free Daily Programs: Reaching More Visitors On-Site
Our Naturalist-led Free Daily Programs and roving education reached 60,746 guests in 2025—an increase in overall engagement from the previous year.
These programs remain a vital way for visitors to interact with knowledgeable educators, ask questions, and connect conservation concepts to real animals and habitats.
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- Wandering with the Wood Bison
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- Bear Talk
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- Moose, Muskox & More
Education Events: Expanding Impact Beyond the Center
Education Events experienced one of the most significant increases across all program areas, engaging 3,142 guests—a 62% increase over 2024.
These events allowed the Education Department to reach new audiences through special programming, community events, and themed educational experiences that extend AWCC’s mission beyond daily operations.
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- National Bison Day
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- Belugas Count
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- Summer Hummingbird Days
Professional Presentations: Rapid Growth in Outreach
Professional presentations grew dramatically in 2025, reaching 324 participants, up from just 28 the year prior—a 1,057% increase.
This growth reflects increased demand for AWCC educators at:
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Conferences and symposiums
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Professional development events
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Higher education and conservation-focused gatherings
These presentations help position AWCC as a leader in wildlife education, conservation communication, and professional collaboration.
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- Director of Education, Lily Grbavach, presenting at Girdwood Brewery for the annual ‘Hold my Bear’ event.
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- Director of Education, Lily Grbavach, presenting at the Prince William Sound Natural Stewardship Foundation Natural History Symposium.
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- Presentations at Kenai River Brewing Co.
Department Highlights from a Year of Growth
In 2025, Education staff:
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Received recognition from NOAA, naming AWCC a 2025 Cook Inlet Beluga Whale Partner Spotlight
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Presented at statewide and regional conferences, including the PWSSF Natural History Symposium, ANROE Alaska, and the Outdoor & Environmental Education Symposium
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Saw AWCC educational resources featured by Twinkl, highlighting teacher-created curriculum and field trip opportunities
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Expanded engagement with higher education students through presentations at Alaska Pacific University
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Delivered over 15 special educational events, drawing attention to conservation, research, and wildlife stewardship
Looking Ahead
The growth seen in 2025 reflects strategic expansion, strong partnerships, and the dedication of AWCC’s educators, volunteers, and collaborators. As we move forward, the Education Department remains focused on building meaningful connections between people and Alaska’s wildlife—through thoughtful programming, professional leadership, and hands-on learning opportunities.
Thank you to everyone who helped make this year one of growth and momentum.