There is a good chance you know and admire Sarah Burgess, and if you don’t, this episode will catch you up to speed. Sarah Burgess, also known as “Sustaina-Burgess,” has improved and spearheaded several positive changes at Philmont - namely the STEM program and Sustainability efforts done via the Philmont Conservation Department. Sarah credits her brother (also a Philmont alumni) Paul Burgess, as being the catalyst that led her to Philmont. Lovingly reflecting on her time on staff, Sarah shares stories of Search and Rescue efforts, banquet preparations at Ranger Rendezvous, “All Cons” chainsaw alarm clocks, and sunrise chapel services.

Sarah is currently on the Board of Directors for the Philmont Staff Association, giving back to the place that helped concrete her passions for environmental change and sustainability. Sarah reminds us to intentionally strive to live free of ego, to be always curious, and to be inclusive in our conversations and the impacts we have on our precious and beautiful planet. Thank you friend!

All PSA members and their families are invited to the 2021 PSA Annual Reunion.  Check out more info here: Celebrating 50+ Years of Conservation

"In the end we will conserve only what we love; we will love only what we understand; and we will understand only what we are taught." -Baba Dioum, 1968

Participant Experience:

2001- ROCS

2002 - Rayado

Staff Experience: 

2003-2004 Ranger

2005- Ranger trainer 

2006- Rayado trek coordinator

2007-2009 Associate Chief Ranger 

2010- 2011 Sustainability Specialist 

2013-2014 STEM Coordinator 

2015-2016 Associate Director of Conservation - Environmental Education

2008 - Autumn Adventure Guide

2014-2015 Fall Conservation

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