Bettie Courses are inspired by the life and work of Beatrice “Bettie” Willard, who was a foundational instructor at the Rocky Mountain Conservancy Field Institute. Her research on alpine tundra ecology has been instrumental to mountain ecology, and her advocacy all throughout the state of Colorado has left a legacy for all women who value land stewardship and conservation. Rocky Mountain Conservancy's Bettie Courses focus on accessible programs that introduce women and those that identify as women to the outdoors through a variety of programs and topics. Courses emphasize science, ecology, and building the outdoor skills and confidence needed to explore and defend wild places.

To honor the spirit and legacy of Bettie and other pioneering women, a group of generous donors has made scholarship funds available for these programs. Participants may be awarded partial or full fee scholarships. To apply, please answer the questions below.

For each course, one full OR two half scholarships may be available. 

Preference will be given to full-time, year-round residents of Colorado.

If you would like to apply for more than one program, you will need to submit a separate application for each different program. 

After we review your application, Rocky Mountain Conservancy staff will be in touch about next steps. If you haven't heard from us within 3 business days, please call or send us an email to make sure we received your application. Scholarship decisions will be announced approximately one month prior to the course start date.

If you have questions, please contact the Rocky Mountain Conservancy Field Institute: 

Email us at education@RMConservancy.org

Call us at 970-586-3262.