The Ambassadors’ Program has opened an entirely new world of possibilities for me, my students, and my school staff. It has deepened my appreciation for North Carolina and all it has to offer, from its rich cultural heritage to its natural resources. This experience has been truly life-changing, broadening my perspective and inspiring me to introduce my students to opportunities they never knew existed. I now see DNCR not just as a department, but as a gateway to exploration, education, and discovery across our state. - Patrice Wade, 2025 Ambassador
Built on the belief that hands-on, experiential learning enriches classroom education in powerful ways, DNCR’s Learning Happens Here Teaching Ambassadors Program immerses selected teachers in unique behind-the-scenes experiences at our 100+ sites—whether exploring museum collections, encountering wildlife at the NC Zoo, or participating in live archaeological digs! Through these opportunities, participating teachers are not only deepening their understanding of DNCR’s rich educational resources and discovering new ways to bring them to life in their classrooms, but they are also helping to ensure DNCR supports all teachers across the state in the most effective ways possible.
Take a glance at our whirlwind kick-off weekend, which included:
- A warm welcome from DNCR’s amazing Secretary, Pamela Brewington Cashwell, who adores K-12 teachers!
- A morning immersed in the energy of the 24th annual African American Cultural Celebration.
- A private tour of the State Archives of North Carolina examining primary sources hundreds of years old.
- Learning about NC Freedom Park with the NC African American Heritage Commission.
- A rare after-hours exploration of the NC State Capitol.
- A mesmerizing performance of DNCR’s America 250 NC production, “The Ongoing Fight for Freedom.”
- A Morning at the Museum with NC Museum of Natural Sciences (rivaling any "night" at the museum).
- Time spent learning about North Carolina Native communities with the wonderful scholar Stephen Bell, American Indian Education Coordinator with Guilford County Schools, and resources from DNCR’s American Indian Heritage Commission.
- Art exploration and powerful discussion at NC Museum of Art.
Time with remarkable teachers from across always leaves us at DNCR hopeful, inspired, and confident in the future of education. The 2025 Learning Happens Here Teacher Ambassadors are a testament to the transformative power of teachers and their enduring dedication to building a strong future for this state we love & call home.