PRESS RELEASE
March 24, 2026

RIEEA to Assume Leadership of Rhode Island Envirothon
Transition supports long-term sustainability and expanded access to environmental education statewide

The Rhode Island Environmental Education Association (RIEEA) is pleased to announce that it will assume stewardship of the Rhode Island Envirothon program beginning in August 2026. This transition was mutually agreed upon by the Rhode Island Envirothon Board of Directors and the RIEEA Executive Board, with a shared commitment to strengthening and sustaining the program for years to come.

Envirothon is an internationally recognized environmental and natural resource education program that engages high school students in hands-on, team-based learning across five topic areas: aquatics, forestry, soils and land use, wildlife, and a current environmental issue. Since 1995, Rhode Island Envirothon has provided students with opportunities to develop critical thinking skills, explore environmental careers, and connect with the state’s natural resources through a rigorous, field-based competition.

“Envirothon has a long and respected history in Rhode Island, and we are honored to carry this program forward,” said Jeanine Silversmith, Executive Director of RIEEA. “This transition reflects a shared vision for expanding access to high-quality environmental education and ensuring that more students across the state can participate in meaningful, hands-on learning experiences.”

As part of this transition, RIEEA will focus on stabilizing participation, expanding access to resources for coaches and teams, and strengthening the program’s long-term capacity. Planned enhancements include the development of Envirothon Field Kits, expanded training opportunities, and increased outreach to schools and community-based organizations.