In Memory of Page Hutchinson
February 4, 2021 11:10 am
The Virginia Department of Forestry is mourning the loss of Page Hutchinson, Virginia’s Project Learning Tree Coordinator and member of the VDOF family, after she passed away unexpectedly this week.
Page was a leader in the environmental education community. Beyond the work she did to build Virginia’s PLT program, Page worked with the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, the Virginia Master Naturalists, and the Virginia Association for Environmental Educators. In 2020, she was awarded the VAEE Outstanding Educator award.
Page believed in getting kids outdoors to learn about the environment in creative, hands-on ways. She gave educators the tools and support they needed to feel empowered to lead outdoor education. She wasn’t afraid to be silly, get messy, or try something in a new way. Her intrepid, vibrant spirit and enthusiasm for nature undoubtedly inspired the next generation.
It’s impossible to say how many lives Page touched with her work – many generations of young people will benefit from the lasting impression she’s made in the environmental education community. It is a testament to her success as a human and an educator to see the many posts, photos, and stories shared by friends and colleagues this week.
We will miss Page’s creative and joyful presence. Please keep her family in your thoughts during this difficult time. If you can, get outside and enjoy nature to honor Page’s legacy.
Memories of Page
The VAEE created a page where people can share photos and memories of Page.
In this 2019 Field Notes post, Page talks about taking a “poke” around the woods with her friend.
This past year, Page created digital resources to make it easier for families to do environmental education at home.
Category: Education, Human Resources, Public Information