As head of Cathleen Stone Island Outward Bound, Sylvia McKinney focuses on climate resilience and growth
Published by The Bay State Banner on October 17th, 2024
In her first year as President & CEO of Cathleen Stone Island Outward Bound, Sylvia McKinney has brought a forward-looking focus on climate resilience and strategic growth. This article highlights her vision for integrating environmental stewardship into experiential education, and why it matters.
Sylvia McKinney became President & CEO in April 2023, the first woman of color to hold the role, bringing renewed energy and a commitment to climate resilience and growth.
The organization has a rich history dating back to 1833; it now combines social-emotional learning with outdoor STEM experiences like salt marsh lessons, ropes courses, and Alpine towers.
Sylvia McKinney at Cathleen Stone Island Outward Bound, focusing on climate resilience.
McKinney is exploring how the island itself can serve as a living classroom, envisioning sustainability features like solar panels and climate-focused programming.
“It’s been an exciting time to be here, particularly when you have an organization that has always had a history of working with young people from low-income communities, but has made a recommitment to social justice,” McKinney said.
She also champions expanding reach beyond Boston, serving students from diverse communities and embedding history, conservation, and environmental justice into the island’s learning ecosystem.