07/15/2025
Board Member Spotlight: Gisela Estes
This week, we are delighted to highlight the impactful work of Gisela Estes, affectionately known as Gigi. Gigi was born in East Prussia, Germany. Her early childhood was shaped by the turmoil of World War II. At just five years old, her family fled westward as Russian forces invaded, eventually finding refuge in what would become West Germany. Despite living in many places, none ever truly felt like home.
In 1964, Gigi immigrated to the United States. After several relocations, she and her husband Paul moved to Plymouth, NH, in 1971 when they both began teaching at Plymouth State University. What was meant to be a temporary stay became a lifelong bond. After a semester abroad in Germany 15 years later, Gigi returned to New Hampshire and realized—emotionally and profoundly—that she had finally found her true home.
Gigi’s love for Plymouth blossomed into a deep commitment to its preservation. In 1986, she joined the Plymouth Conservation Commission (PCC), first as an alternate and later as a full member. Her husband Paul also served on the PCC for several years. Together, they became passionate stewards of the land, helping to protect several cherished natural areas:
• Walter-Newton Natural Area: A 100-acre preserve gifted by the Walter and Newton families, featuring a beloved waterfall and scenic trails.
• Plymouth Mountain: Thanks to Gigi’s efforts, development rights were secured to prevent future construction, preserving its wild beauty for generations.
• The Oxbow Area: Now a national recreation area, this land was protected with support from state and federal partners.
Gigi also led a successful grassroots effort to eliminate pesticide use on town fields and commons, protecting children, pets, and the environment from harmful chemicals.
An avid outdoorswoman, Gigi has hiked all of New England’s 4,000-foot peaks—many of them in winter. She and Paul have backpacked the John Muir Trail in California, hiked the Grand Canyon, and trekked through the Alps in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Their love for the outdoors has been passed on to their two children, both of whom are enthusiastic adventurers.
At Plymouth State, Gigi taught German for 16 years and helped lead a summer program for German teachers focused on early childhood language instruction. She also supported study abroad opportunities and helped students find work in Germany. Her dedication left a lasting impact—former students still return to thank her for the difference she made in their lives.
Today, Gigi continues to be a vigilant advocate for the environment, especially concerned about invasive species like oriental bittersweet that threaten local ecosystems. She enjoys cross-country skiing, hiking, running, and being part of the warm, welcoming Plymouth community. Living in a quiet neighborhood near the hospital, she treasures being close to both nature and the vibrant university life that has enriched her journey.
Thank you Gigi for your service and commitment all
these years. 🌿🌺🌻
