We’re turning 30!
The year was 1995.
Coolio and Natalie Merchant topped the Billboards, DVDs and Windows95 had just appeared on the scene, TV news was fixated on OJ Simpson and Oklahoma City, and this crazy thing called “the Internet” had suddenly vaulted into public consciousness.
Meanwhile in Montana, an intrepid group of journalists was about to embark on an experiment. That July they ventured into the field on a two-week journey, conceived of and organized by Frank Allen, former editor at The Wall Street Journal and then-dean of the University of Montana’s School of Journalism. Driven by this wild idea — that journalists covering the environment should actually get out and see the environment — that very first Institute (always and affectionately known thereafter as “Frank’s Death March”) allowed 16 reporters to escape their newsrooms, get out on the landscape, and meet with sources and stakeholders on their own turf.
Turns out, it was a worthwhile experiment. Three decades later we’re still here, dragging people all over North America in the name of good journalism — and they seem to like it, because they keep coming back for more!
Joking aside, we’re beyond proud to have reached this milestone, and we’re endlessly grateful to everyone who has supported us along the way: The thousands of speakers who have donated their time, the individuals who contribute to our annual appeal, the foundations that believe in our mission and have stayed with us through ups and downs. And, most importantly, the journalists who bring their curiosity, dedication, diligence and good humor to all of our programs.
Thank you for making the past 30 years possible (and enjoyable!). Please consider supporting us as we embark on a whole new decade.
With gratitude,
The IJNR Team
Simply make a donation, OR buy a limited edition IJNR shirt (and consider including a donation)
Make a donation! We like the sound of “$30 for 30 years”, but we’re grateful for any amount you’re willing to give.
Buy a t-shirt or hoody! You will be given an option at checkout to include a donation beyond the purchase amount. (Spectacular pun included - because what IJNR alum hasn’t found themselves standing in a field during a program??)
Please note that our shirt campaign will end Monday, August 4. Orders will be fulfilled by Custom Ink, and all shirts will be printed and shipped shortly after the fundraising campaign ends.
