2025 Excellence in Education Award

The National Park Service is pleased to congratulate the national recipients of the 2025 Excellence in Education Award. The Excellence in Education Awards recognize outstanding contributions to the profession of education that model excellence through thoughtful engagement of education principles, innovation, and adaptation.

Left to right: Johnny Carawan, Jenny Sullivan, and Rebecca Bertrand.

Women on the Water is a groundbreaking collaboration between the Newport Historical Society and the Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail, offering an innovative program that inspires and equips young women in grades 6-12. By blending the rich history of the trail with hands-on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education and Newport's maritime heritage, this program has become a beacon of inspiration, belonging, and engagement.

Participants engage in transformative activities, including sailing, kayaking, and navigation, while exploring the vital roles women can play in the maritime and STEM fields. Through citizen science projects, students monitor water quality, study coastal erosion, and track aquatic species, inspiring them to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and maritime industries. These experiences promote environmental stewardship, foster civic engagement, and break down barriers to recreational access within national parks. The program exemplifies excellence in education by promoting collaborative learning, innovative thinking, and community engagement—preparing students for future careers in STEM and maritime industries.

Johnny Carawan is the Trail Administrator for the Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail, Rebecca Bertrand is the Executive Director of the Newport Historical Society, and Jenny Sullivan is the Manager of Learning and Public Programs with the Newport Historical Society.

Women on the Water is a shining example of what can be achieved through teamwork and shared vision. The three recipients combined their unique strengths to create a transformative program that connects history, science, and community in powerful ways. Johnny laid the groundwork by securing funding and building the administrative foundation to bring the program to life. Rebecca brought together local partners, resources, and educational institutions to shape a program with lasting impact. Jenny, with her passion and creativity, has delivered an engaging experience that inspires students and fosters a sense of belonging and possibility. Together, their collaboration has made Women on the Water a model for empowering the next generation to see themselves as leaders in history, STEM, and environmental stewardship.