The Prescott College Kino Bay Center celebrated its 30th anniversary in May of 2022! 150 people gathered over four days to recognize the impacts of the Center in the lives of more than 14,000 people. The celebration recognized and honored the extended community of people who have contributed to the work the Center does today to integrate education, community, science and equity to protect the bio-cultural riches of the region. Students, alumni, staff, community members, collaborators, advisory board members, and Prescott College administrators and trustees all expressed sincere appreciation for being part of the Center’s story.

Notable guests included Doug Hulmes (a student in the first Prescott College class in Kino in 1972), Tad Pfister (the original field station manager), and Ed Boyer (the first Center Director). Students from 1972-2022, and staff members from 1991-2022 were represented. Virginia Jimenez traveled from Spain just for the weekend, and others came from all over the U.S. and Mexico to participate. Half the participants came from local communities. Special recognition was extended to the Center’s long-time director, Lorayne Meltzer. In the words of Doug Hulmes, “The bridges and connections that go back more than 30 years exemplify the importance of working with all the cultures and individuals who have played a role in the amazing work that is now being done by the Center.”

There were plenty of fun activities. Comcaac artisans set up a market to sell crafts and entertainment included performances by the local Kino folkloric dance group and an indigenous Comcaac elder. Guests participated in field trips to Isla Datil and Estero Santa Rosa. They smashed plates for the community art project, a mosaic of a manta ray, and explored all of the new facilities at the Center. All in all, it was a wonderful weekend!