08/31/2026
Welcome Dre to the KEEN Team!
Our New Environmental Education & Adventure Programs Manager
DeAndre Kezele didn't grow up outdoors — his path started in the classroom, working with the Yakima School District across special education, behavior support, general education, and English Language Development. It wasn't until he stepped into outdoor education that something clicked. Watching kids light up on a rock wall, birding, or a curiosity on the trail showed him a kind of learning he hadn't seen before, and he was hooked. Ever since, his mission has been simple: give every kid the chance to experience that same sense of wonder.
He went on to spend multiple seasons leading Outdoor School, then coordinated at the National Audubon Society of Seattle to help bring a nature-science camp to life. Beyond his program work, DeAndre mentors at-risk youth and volunteer coaches soccer and basketball, driven by a deep commitment to giving back to his community and investing in the next generation. Now, he's excited to bring that same experience and love of environmental education to KEEN (Kittitas Environmental Education Network) — continuing to grow programs that connect kids to the natural world around them.
Outside of work, DeAndre is the first to say yes to a new adventure. He's outgoing,
endlessly curious, and always chasing his next hobby (he's lost count somewhere around 100), whether that's picking up a new sport, learning a game, or just trying something he's never done before. If there's a way to turn curiosity into connection, he's probably already found it.
Dre will be leading our environmental education programming and more - learn more here https://www.keen-ycic.org/outdoor-programs
