Philadelphia Outward Bound School proudly announces the 2025 Blue Heron Educator Award recipients: Andrew Adams of Northeast High School and Liz Biagioli of Wissahickon Charter School.
These two outstanding educators exemplify the values at the heart of Outward Bound – courage, compassion, and a deep belief in the potential of every student. Whether in the classroom or out in the wilderness, Andy and Liz go above and beyond to create transformational learning experiences that challenge, inspire, and empower young people.
The Blue Heron Award celebrates educators who bring the Outward Bound spirit into their work, fostering leadership, connection, and growth both inside and outside the school setting. Nominated by local champions and selected by the POBS community, Andy and Liz represent what’s possible when educators lead with purpose and heart.
We are honored to recognize their lasting impact on Philadelphia’s students, schools, and communities.
Andrew Adams
“Outward Bound turns down the noise of students’ everyday lives. It gives them space to breathe, move, and figure things out without distraction. On expedition, everyone has a role and no one is just along for the ride. Students learn to show up for one another, to lead and to follow, and to support the person next to them, even if they wouldn’t have connected at school. The instructors model this too. They reflect the diversity of our city and bring their full selves to the work, keeping students’ emotional well-being at the center. By the end, students return more grounded, more empathetic, and more ready to face the world together.”
Liz Biagioli
“Although our world is rapidly changing, what Outward Bound provides its participants remains the same; challenge, connection, and individual growth. Students are challenged with different outdoor experiences while learning new skills and building self-reliance. These challenges bring about connection with oneself, others, and the natural world. Not only are connections made, but so are leaders. There are many opportunities for individuals to rise to the occasion to support others in reaching a common goal by using the skills of communication, problem-solving, compassion, and empathy. Outward Bound successfully supports the growth and the development of individuals to recognize the power each one of us holds within and that we can be resilient in this ever changing world.”