On July 25, during Forest Fest, Trees For Tomorrow proudly celebrated the dedication of the John & Melissa Besse Outdoor Learning Center, marking the completion of a project that will serve students, educators, and community members for years to come.
The open house and dedication brought together supporters, friends, and partners to recognize the vision, generosity, and collaboration that made this space possible. Cheryl Brunzo, Trees For Tomorrow’s Executive Director, recently stated, “We are especially grateful to the John and Melissa Besse Foundation, whose leadership gift earned the naming sponsorship and helped turn this dream into a reality.”
Designed as a flexible outdoor gathering space, the John & Melissa Besse Outdoor Learning Center (OLC) is already enhancing TFT programs by providing a welcoming environment for environmental education, demonstrations, and group activities. The facility is also available for rental and can accommodate meetings, community events, celebrations, and other gatherings.
More than a structure, the OLC represents the power of investing in places that bring people together. Thanks to the generosity of so many donors, sponsors, volunteers, and community partners, we now have a space where learning, connection, and memories will continue to grow.
The youngest generation of the Besse Family participated in the dedication with a log cutting ceremony.
The legacy of John and Mellisa Besse is carried on through Greg and Diane Besse and their family. Greg and Diane and their children Cain and Gabrielle gathered with their families to dedicate the OLC that bears their family name.
Matt Carothers speaks on behalf of the Besse family, reflecting on their shared commitment with TFT to outdoor education and inspiring the next generation.
Executive Director Cheryl Brunzo welcomes guests and reflects on the vision, partnerships, and generosity that brought the Outdoor Learning Center to life.
TFT Vice President Tim Nordin from Billerud shares remarks
About Trees For Tomorrow
Trees For Tomorrow’s campus, located in Eagle River, Wisconsin, includes National Forest property under permit from the USDA Forest Service. Private property owned by Trees For Tomorrow (TFT), the Wisconsin Newspaper Association and Tara Lila LLC are also utilized for education and outreach purposes. TFT is an accredited nonprofit environmental center specializing in overnight environmental education programs for K-12 school groups with facilities that include dormitories, a full-service dining hall, and classrooms. Trees for Tomorrow annually serves 14,000 youth and adults with the mission to promote sustainable management of our natural resources through transformative educational experiences.
