Sue Royster Birding & Boat Launch Pier
Norfolk Christian is honored to name our new Birding & Boat Launch Pier after Sue Royster, beloved teacher, mentor, alum parent, grandparent, board member and friend.
For 27 years, Sue transformed our science program into a vibrant, hands-on experience that pointed students to the Creator through the wonders of His creation. Her courses in Biology, Oceanography, Anatomy, and Environmental Science inspired students to explore, question, and care for the world God made. Her famous catchphrase: “We do school here,” captured her joy in making learning meaningful.
The pier, now complete, is the first phase of our broader Outdoor Learning vision. This waterfront space provides launch access for kayaks and canoes, prime vantage points for bird observation, and an outdoor classroom for water studies and environmental science.
Next comes the Living Shoreline Project, restoring 500 linear feet of shoreline into a sustainable, interactive “living laboratory” where students from Pre-K through 12th grade will study stewardship and conservation hands-on. In partnership with the Elizabeth River Project, Wetlands Watch, and Calvert Marine, the shoreline will feature native plantings, a rain garden, permeable walkways, and outdoor learning spaces. Students will work alongside environmental experts to protect the Elizabeth River ecosystem while learning to be faithful stewards of God’s creation.
While the pier is fully funded, we invite you to honor Sue’s legacy by supporting the next phase of this vision. All donors to any Outdoor Learning initiative will be recognized in the printed program at Sue’s dedication this fall.
Your gift will help bring Sue’s dream to life… Inspiring future generations to not just see the world, but to name it, study it, and care for God’s creation.