The John Bunker Sands Wetland Center marked a milestone this fall, celebrating its 15th anniversary with Wings Over the Wetlands—an evening that honored both the beauty of the wetlands and the community that sustains them. Set within 1,840 acres of living habitat, home to nearly 300 bird species and an abundance of native wildlife, the event underscored why this remarkable place has become one of North Texas’ most essential environmental resources.

Board member Lauren Rose Sands opened the evening by reminding guests that the center is “so much more than wildlife habitat—it’s a living classroom, a sanctuary for endangered species, and a vital part of our environment.” More than 2,500 students visit each year to learn science in action—collecting water samples, studying ecosystems under microscopes, and discovering firsthand how wetlands sustain wildlife, communities, and the planet.

The celebration also welcomed new Executive Director Kayleigh Bucur, whose leadership signals a deeper and more intentional chapter for the Center’s educational and ecological mission. Bucur first encountered the wetlands during a professional development session years ago. “It was stunning — serene, full of life — but what captivated me was learning how many layers existed beyond the beauty,” she said. “The science, the water reuse system, the wildlife, the partnerships… this place represents collaboration at its best.”

For Bucur, the mission resonates because she has personally experienced the lifelong impact of environmental education.

“When young people experience the outdoors firsthand, they grow into adults who value, support, and protect it. That is the ripple effect we’re creating here.”

Her vision prioritizes depth over scale. “Every connection with every visitor is different,” she said. “Some come for the wildlife. Some come for the science. Others come simply to breathe. Supporting those connections—making the wetlands relevant to everyone—that’s what strengthens our mission.”

Bucur also highlighted the Center’s unique role in demonstrating water sustainability. In partnership with the North Texas Municipal Water District, the wetlands naturally polish and enhance water quality as part of the East Fork Water Reuse Project. “We’re helping pump up to 90 million gallons of clean water back into the system,” she noted. “It’s a powerful example of how natural systems can meet human needs while supporting wildlife.”

The event also recognized Texas Counter Fitters, one of the Center’s devoted philanthropic partners, for championing its mission and helping to expand visibility within the broader community. “From the beginning, my partner Andrew and I made a promise that if we succeeded, we would give back — especially to causes tied to education and the environment,” said TCF co-founder Chris Blackburn, who was the evening’s Honorary Chair. “We benefit every day from the beauty of natural resources. Supporting the Center is our way of protecting those resources for the next generation.”

His first visit made the partnership personal.

“I was in awe. I learned that 13 cities — including where I live and where our business is based — directly benefit from these wetlands. It changed the way I understood this place.”

TCF’s contributions will support trail improvements, shade structures, and a new dock — enhancements that will expand outdoor access for thousands of students and visitors each year. “These experiences spark curiosity and create lasting memories,” said Chris. “They remind us that conservation isn’t just science—it’s community.”

Photos, top to bottom: Honoring TCF’s contributions to the Center, Chris Blackburn and Lauren Rose Hunt, Perot Museum Director of Gems and Minerals Caroline Im, the Wetlands, and Chris and Rosewood Foundation Vice President Lynn Fisher.