Leadership

Throughout its history, Olympic Park Institute has benefitted from extraordinary leadership. The Institute staff is comprised of leaders in their fields who are strongly committed to our mission. The Institute’s Senior Management Team collectively celebrates 30 years with the organization. Several senior staff members started as field science educators and share a deep understanding of and commitment to the mission.

Tom Sanford, Institute Director

Tom joined Olympic Park Institute in 2002 and became the director in 2005. His strategic vision has doubled student enrollment, and today he oversees programs for 8,000 annual participants.

"As I see it, one of the coolest things about Olympic Park Institute programs is that the students aren’t just engaging with the environment, they’re learning while engaging with one another and with our educators.  By the second or third day of a given program you see real cooperation happening.  To address the issues we're facing as a society, it’s these cooperative learning skills matched with a love for the natural world and critical thinking skills that will make a real difference.”

Greg M. Moga, III, Board Chair

Greg joined the Olympic Park Institute Board of Directors in 1999 and was elected Board chair by his peers in 2006. Greg is passionate about using scientific explorations and discovery as a tool to help students connect to the natural world.

"Olympic Park Institute programs connect kids to one of the greatest pieces of our national heritage: our national parks!  I am incredibly proud of and inspired by the educators at Olympic Park Institute.  On a daily basis, they are accomplishing work that is transforming young people’s lives.” —Greg Moga, Olympic Park Institute Board Chair

Leadership Team

Board of Directors » Our Board of Directors includes industry and community leaders that drive our vision and ensure our ongoing growth and sustainability.

Educators » Our education staff is the heart and soul of Olympic Park Institute.  Their daily leadership is imperative to ensure the highest quality of programs.