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Since 1998, the Indian River Lakes Conservancy (IRLC) has worked to protect the land and water of this beautiful region. But our work doesn’t end with trails and water quality—it extends to the next generation of conservationists who will carry this mission forward. That’s why we created the IRLC Pioneer Scholarship—a $1,000 award for students pursuing studies in environmental science, conservation, natural resources, or related fields.

This year seven outstanding local students have been awarded the Pioneer Scholarship to pursue their environmental and conservation-related studies.

Meet the 2025 recipients:

• From Carthage Central School:
  • Nayssa Ruiz – Agri-Business
  • Gabrielle Downey – Agricultural Communication
• From Indian River Central School:
  • Drake Phalen – Environmental Studies or Geology
  • Kierstyn Patterson – Zoo Science
• From Thousand Islands Central School:
  • Emerald Crowley – Environmental Studies
• From Jefferson Community College:
  • Ryan Rogers – Environmental/Wildlife Sciences
  • Danny Gmitter – Attending SUNY ESF Ranger School

This scholarship is only possible thanks to our wonderful donors.

We recently caught up with past recipient, Jack Natali Jr. to check in and see how things were going after receiving the scholarship. Here are a few things he had to offer.

When Jack received the IRLC Pioneer Scholarship it was a moment of recognition.

“Receiving the scholarship meant so much to me. It felt that my hard work had finally been recognized,” he said. “The scholarship helped me pay for my books and online courses. One of the books I bought was Wild Souls by Emma Marris. This book impacted me so much…”

Jack’s early love for the environment grew deeper throughout his academic journey. He started at Jefferson Community College, earning an associate’s degree in natural sciences, and is now pursuing a degree in ecology at SUNY Plattsburgh.

“Even from a young age I had a deep appreciation for nature,” Jack shared. “Since receiving the scholarship, my passion evolved. I realized there are so many fields of biology I didn’t know enough about. I promised myself I’d take courses outside my comfort zone to better understand the world as a whole.”

This open-minded approach paid off—both in the classroom and out in the field. Jack now works a summer job through SUNY ESF as a boat steward on Black Lake, right here in the Indian River Lakes region.

“I inspect boats and educate boaters on the importance of cleaning, draining, and drying their boats before entering a body of water,” he explained. “I also identify aquatic species on boats entering or leaving the lake. It’s meaningful work, and I get to be outside protecting the lakes I love.”

Jack also offered thoughtful advice for future students and scholarship applicants:

“Never judge a course by your first impression. College lets you learn from all different fields and connect them—building a much deeper understanding of the natural world.”

This is the impact of your generosity.

Supporting the IRLC Pioneer Scholarship isn’t just helping students access education—it’s helping grow environmental leaders like Jack Natali Jr., who are already making a tangible difference in the Indian River Lakes region and beyond.

Please consider donating today to keep the scholarship going for years to come. Donate now.