It is with great sadness that MSOE says goodbye to the legend Norman Brooks who passed away March 4, 2020. Norman is responsible for thousands of students attending science camp from Oakland Unified School District, as his first trip to MSOE with 5th grade students was in 2005. Norman partnered with schools, aiding in the process of making a science camp experience a reality for students. Norman’s dream was for an annual trip to MSOE to be ingrained in school culture. That is exactly what happened, as many schools 15 years later continue to attend annually.
I first met Norman when I was a teaching naturalist at Mission Springs Outdoor Education in 2006. Immediately myself and the team of naturalists recognized Norman’s passion and excitement about educating students about creation. After spending just one hour with Mr. Brooks, our team was filled with Norman’s contagious enthusiasm. Norman inspired and transformed not only student lives, but the lives of MSOE naturalists and directors.
When I was hired as the Director of Mission Springs Outdoor Education in Feb. 2013, Norman was one of my biggest supporters, fans, and encouragers. This was one of the highest honors in my lifetime, to have the support and encouragement of the legend Norman Brooks.
Norman’s legacy will continue at MSOE as we partner with Oakland Unified School District. Schools are always facing financial hurdles, and it’s our honor to gift all monies given to the Norman Brooks Memorial Fund towards Oakland Unified student scholarships to attending Mission Springs Outdoor Education. If you would like to make a gift in Norman’s honor you can here. Please write Norman Brooks in the comment box.
Stacie Daoust Burch
Director of Mission Springs Outdoor Education
Norman was our keynote speaker at the MSOE 40th anniversary celebration in May 2019. View his message below.
