Southwestern Adventist University is thrilled to announce its participation in the much-anticipated Pathfinder Camporee in Gillette, Wyoming, this August. Here's what you need to know about the SWAU booth and our exciting plans!

Planning and preparation for Gillette began in 2022, and our vision has only grown since then. Our booth will offer the unique "Dinosaurs" honor program, designed to teach Pathfinders the art of excavating and documenting dinosaur fossils. It's not just about earning a badge; it's about sparking a lifelong passion for discovery and science. And guess what? We didn't stop there.

Weeks after tickets were posted for the 2-hour drive from Gillette to visit the Hanson Dinosaur Research Station, we sold out! For those lucky Pathfinders who registered, the opportunity to visit the Southwestern Dino Dig project will undoubtedly be a highlight of their camporee experience. They will tour the brand-new field station and research center and get hands-on experience digging for and excavating real dinosaur fossils. We expect to share this incredible experience with over 2,000 Pathfinders and leaders, and we couldn't be more excited.

"This opportunity is made possible by a large group of dedicated volunteers," shares Dr. Erin Maloney, our Dinosaur Dig Director. "It’s very meaningful to me seeing young students getting inspired after uncovering fossils for the first time. We've been preparing for months, and we're ready to welcome the Pathfinders to our research station. It's going to be an unforgettable experience."

Back in Gillette, the Southwestern booth will be buzzing with activity. Pin collecting is a special tradition at camporees, and we're thrilled to unveil our exclusive dinosaur pin! We have limited supplies, but our pin will be available to all TLT's and serious pin collectors!

Josafat Zemluduch, SWAU Marketing & PR Director, adds with enthusiasm, "Our booth will be hard to miss with a life-size dinosaur centerpiece. We can't wait to see the excitement on everyone's faces!"

So, if you're attending the Pathfinder Camporee in Gillette, make sure to stop by our booth. Wondering how to find us? Just look for the 30 ft. long Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton – we'll be right underneath, ready to meet you and share our passion for discovery and education. Come see us, and let's make this camporee an event to remember!