A Night of Film, Community, and Connection: In Our Nature Exclusive Screening Recap

On July 24, 2025, Lexington, KY, welcomed educators, families, and community members for an unforgettable evening at the exclusive screening of In Our Nature—a powerful new documentary that explores how environmental education can help heal divides and build stronger, more connected communities.

Hosted at the Lyric Theater, the event celebrated not only the film itself but also the changemakers and educators at the heart of this growing movement in Kentucky and beyond.

About the Film

In Our Nature asks bold, timely questions:

• How can nature help bridge the divides shaping America today?

• What if environmental education were seen as essential—not optional—for mental health, civic connection, and community resilience?

• And what happens when all young people, regardless of background, are given the chance to connect with the natural world that connects us all?

Through stories of resilience, hope, and reconnection, the documentary highlights changemakers using nature to inspire learning and unity. Among the stories, Red Oaks Forest School in Powell County, Kentucky, is a shining example of how nature-based education transforms lives.

The film also features voices from Kentucky’s environmental education community, including KAEE members Ellen Prusinski and Tina Brouwer, further emphasizing the role of local educators in shaping a brighter, more connected future.

An Evening to Remember

The night began with a warm welcome during a community reception and showcase featuring Red Oaks Forest School, Kentucky Association for Environmental Education (KAEE), and other partners who share a commitment to advancing environmental learning opportunities. Guests enjoyed live music from fellow environmental educators, Jeri Katherine Howell and Nat Colton, while mingling with filmmakers and advocates.

Attendees gathered for opening remarks from filmmakers James Parker and Juliet Grable, along with Carrie Albright from NAAEE, Tina Brouwer of Red Oaks Forest School, and Ashley Hoffman, KAEE’s Executive Director.

Then came the moment everyone had been waiting for: the special advanced screening of In Our Nature. The audience was deeply engaged with its powerful message of hope and unity through environmental education.

Following the film, a live Q&A session allowed attendees to hear directly from the filmmakers and featured voices, including:

• James Parker and Juliet Grable, Filmmakers

• Ellen Prusinski, Centre College Associate Professor of Education

• Ashley Hoffman, KAEE Executive Director

• Kara Shepherd, Red Oaks Forest School Parent

Moderated by Dan Pascucci, Bernheim Forest and Arboretum Youth & Family Program Manager and KAEE Board Member, the discussion highlighted the impact of nature-based learning and the importance of making environmental education accessible to all.

This event was more than a film screening. It was a celebration of community and commitment. Every dollar raised from the event directly supports Red Oaks Forest School and KAEE, helping fund initiatives that provide children across Kentucky the opportunity to learn in—and from—nature.