So glad you can join us for the HNL Fall 2025 Kick-Off Retreat at the Yale Outdoor Education Center (OEC), 297 Upper Pattagansett Road, East Lyme, CT

We will plan to enjoy the beauty of Powers Lake and the company of HNL members past and present on Thursday, August 28 from 11:00am - 4:00pm. Our day will include the first lab meeting of the semester, presented by Nicholas Christakis.

11:00am-12:30pm: Arrive and explore! Walking trails, boats, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards will be available
Noon: Lunch is served
12:30-2:00pm: HNL Weekly Lab Meeting, Prof. Nicholas Christakis, "The Year Ahead for the Human Nature Lab" Nicholas will present without slides, and will talk about year ahead for the Human Nature Lab. We will also have an opportunity during this extended sit-down to discuss our roles and expectations for the coming year.
2:00-4:00pm: Enjoy dessert and the OEC at your leisure

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get there?
Yale OEC is located about 45 minutes from New Haven, just a few miles off exit 71 on 95 N.

If you are taking the shuttle: A small school bus from B&B Transportation will be outside 17 Hillhouse Ave at 10:15 AM. Please be on time!
 
If you are driving: The address for GPS is 297 Upper Pattagansett Rd., E. Lyme. Drive past the Dining Hall on your right as you drive in for about ¾ of a mile down the dirt road until you come to the Pavilion and can see the lake.

Can I bring a guest?
Yes! This is a family-friendly event. The OEC is on Powers Lake, complete with lounge chairs, kayaks, stand-up paddle boards and swimming (after 2:30pm only). Lifeguards will be present but you will be responsible for the safety of any minor children as your guest(s).
 If you are bringing any additional guests, please email jess.collins@yale.edu by Aug 27.

What's for lunch?
Hotdogs, hamburgers, veggie burgers, salads and all your favorite bbq cookout foods will be provided by Coffee's Country Market. Please let Jess know if you have any dietary restrictions or special requests.


We're excited to see you!