Photo Credit: M Baxley at Bear Witness Media
The ACA is proud to recognize Sandra Newbury as our Instructor of the Month! Sandra is an ACA Whitewater Kayaking Instructor Trainer, Swiftwater Rescue Instructor, and Canoe Instructor.
Sandra is the founder of Northwoods Outdoor Center, where she and her team teach everything from introductory paddling to advanced whitewater and swiftwater safety. Teaching most often in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Illinois, Sandra also leads instructional trips to Costa Rica’s Sarapiquí and Pacuare Rivers and Idaho’s Main Salmon. Her home river is the Peshtigo in northeastern Wisconsin, but her “classrooms” extend to the Wolf River, pools in Madison during the winter, and annual events with partners like Team River Runner. Sandra is also developing a canoeing program for teenagers from the St. Croix Ojibwe community.
Sandra’s vision for Northwoods Outdoor Center was born from a desire to play on rivers while building an inclusive, supportive community. Her program embraces paddlers of all backgrounds and identities, with a special emphasis on celebrating diversity and creating welcoming spaces. “We believe the world is a better place when diversity flourishes,” Sandra says. “We welcome and celebrate all the colors, genders, body types, abilities, and communities who might enjoy rivers.”
Her paddling journey began at age eight at Camp Green Cove in North Carolina, where she first picked up a canoe paddle. Cold water, snakes, and stringent swimming tests didn’t deter her—rather, they built the foundation for a lifelong connection to rivers.
Sandra describes a turning point in her career when she pursued her Instructor Trainer certification. The process pushed her to think deeply about education and how to develop independence and confidence in others. “That structure has actually brought more simplicity, allowing me to encourage more independence in my students—whether that’s in boating, safety, or teaching,” she reflects.
One teaching moment that stands out to Sandra came above a rapid with a nine-year-old student, Josie, who told her, “I’m scared, but I want to do it.” Sandra and her student came to the conclusion that this was the definition of bravery. Years later, she had the exact same conversation with an adult student before another rapid. Both paddlers ran their rapids with joy and courage—a reminder to Sandra of the magic that rivers can unlock for people of all ages.
Looking ahead, Sandra hopes the paddling community will continue to build inclusivity and safety for everyone. “I hope we will continue to open doors for those who haven’t had resources or opportunities to learn and for everyone who could find joy playing in boats.”
Congratulations, Sandra, and thank you for your leadership, instruction, and passion for growing our paddling community!
Learn more about Northwoods Outdoor Center: www.NorthwoodsOutdoorCenter.com
