2025 newsletter flipbook

Federal Landscape As the federal funding landscape continues to shift, institutions like RMBL face growing uncertainty.

2024 RMBL Supporters

Recent developments — including administrative delays, reduced indirect cost rates, and potential freezes in research funding — highlight the challenges that lie ahead. The National Science Foundation was targeted for some of the biggest cuts — 57% — among all federal agencies in the first draft of the 2026 federal budget. While RMBL has long benefited from federal research dollars, we are entering a period where these streams can no longer be assumed to be stable or sufficient. In this climate, differentiation matters. What sets RMBL apart is not just our stunning location or our century-long legacy — it’s our model of field-based, data-driven research and

education. With over 60 years of long-term ecological data, a global community of scientists, and a campus that facilitates hands-on learning in one of the most biologically rich high-altitude environments in the world, RMBL provides unmatched scientific value. But continuing this work and expanding it to meet the demands of the next century requires adaptability and support. Additionally, RMBL is actively establishing partnerships that expand both our research and funding opportunities. We are working with academic institutions, government agencies, and mission- aligned organizations to build collaborative models

that support shared goals. These partnerships are key to unlocking new pathways for innovation and sustainability. In parallel, we are thinking strategically about additional

enables strategic growth. From maintaining our field station infrastructure to supporting young scientists and faculty research, every philanthropic gift makes an immediate and lasting difference. Looking ahead, RMBL’s strength will come from our ability to innovate in the face of constraint. That means diversifying our funding model, investing in our people and platforms, and launching bold initiatives — like our upcoming Centennial Campaign — to fuel our next 100 years. Supporting RMBL right now is not just a gift to the present. It’s an investment in the future of science, education, and ecological understanding.

mission-driven initiatives that provide long-term

stability. From exploring new educational programs and housing solutions to leveraging our unique scientific assets for conservation impact, we are focused on building a more adaptive and resilient future. Now more than ever, philanthropy plays a critical role in RMBL’s resilience and relevance. As traditional funding sources face disruption, private investment becomes the engine that sustains our science, empowers student training, and

“Bruce,” the drone, is ready for takeoff armed with Jayden and Tyler’s new technology

photo by Katherine Beard

General Operating Fund

Marmot $5,000 - $9,999

Columbine $10,000 - $24,999

Hummingbird $25,000 +

Doris and James Brogan Margie and John Haley Blake Hawk

Thomas and Currie Barron Colorado River Sustainability Campaign Eugene and Shirley Cordes Matt Egermayer Tom and Parker Hawk Jim and Ynette Hogue Steven Jennison, Sr and Carol Jennison Jack and Jane McAllister Tem and Maggie McElroy Nina Lynn Buckley Irrevocable Trust Tricia Powell Perrin and Peggy Quarles Char and Pete Rowland Fred Seipp and Carol Roehrig

Absent Friend Fund of St. Louis Community Foundation Dick and Mary Allen Anonymous Stuart Bailey and Linda Fontaine Katherine Ballenger Jim Billick

This list includes those who donated between January 1, 2024 and April 30, 2025. RMBL strives to ensure the accuracy of our donor recognition lists. We apologize for any errors and ask that you please let us know of any discrepancies as soon as possible.

Carol Johnson and Russ Miller Lindsey Kroll and Irene Hickey Jean Langenheim Estate Barbara McGaughey David and Bonnie Weekley Brian and Marcella Wildes

Jack and Mary Blake Emily and John Bruno

Diane Campbell Jennifer Darnell Bruce Driver and Charlene Dougherty Paul and Anne Ehrlich Drew Fink and Daniela Uribe Carolyn Gibbs and Rick Nelson John and Mel Harte Peter Hartline and Rebecca Kucera Jeff Hermanson Donald and Cathey Humphreys Douglas and Kimberly Johnson Robert and Wilson Johnson

Please email dev@rmbl.org with any changes. Thank you!

John and Carson Taylor Kip and Sharon Tindell Eric and Kim Upchurch

Hummingbird with a “backpack” used for tracking movements

17 | SPRING 2025

SPRING 2025 | 18

Made with FlippingBook Digital Publishing Software