4-H Rite of Passage Guides

Larry Hobbs, M.A.: From a field biologist studying whales and dolphins, to a psychotherapist working with individual and family systems, to a teacher and naturalist leading wildlife trips worldwide, to years of Rites of Passage training at the School of Lost Borders, Larry came to the 4H Challenge Program with a vision of making traditional Rites of Passage available to all 4H youth. Although still conducting river dolphin research in Southeast Asia, teaching and leading natural history trips around the world, Larry’s passion rests in guiding Rites of Passage and in sharing his knowledge of the ways we interrelate with and understand the natural world that supports us all. Larry is a father and grandfather. larry@inlandwhale.com

Scott Lawrance, Ed.D.: After a career in public education as a teacher and counselor, Scott is apprenticing to the ancient path of Wilderness Rites of Passage.  A therapist, counselor, poet, counselor educator, amateur naturalist, meditation instructor and grandfather, he has spent much time in the wilderness of British Columbia.  Semi-retired on an island in Georgia Straight, he continues to provide consultation and training to school districts struggling with critical and traumatic events.  He is committed to following a path with heart, supporting environments of awareness for young and older alike.   slawrans@telus.net

Mark Lazich, M.S.:  As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and educator, Mark was drawn to the 4-H Rite of Passage program through his personal passion for the natural world and his professional work with adolescents and their families.  His journey as a wilderness guide stems from a background in wilderness therapy, experiential education, and cognitive based mindfulness therapy.  Understanding the limitations of talk-therapy, he is dedicated to helping youth explore themselves through their relationship with the natural world.  Mark is gratefully walking the new path of fatherhood, being led by his daughter, Sophia. mklazich@ida.net

Sue Lerner, M.Ed.: After retirement from 35 years as a teacher, principal and assistant superintendent, Sue has continued to follow her passion of providing opportunities for youth to develop into healthy adults.  Sue presently serves as interim lead faculty for WSU Extension King County 4-H.  In 2001 when her passion combined with that of her old friend Larry Hobbs, 4-H Rite of Passage was born.  Since then Sue has provided consultation to the program about training and education as well as linkages to WSU and other Extension resources.  Sue feels personally blessed by the 4-H Rite of Passage program for supporting her through a personal life passage into great grandmotherhood and a vibrant new stage in her career.  susan.lerner@kingcounty.gov

Lauren Marziliano, M.Ed.:  Lauren has always had a passion for being on the land whether it be deciduous-hardwood forests, deep coniferous woods, coastal beaches, or sagebrush deserts.  After moving to Washington from Georgia, she began helping connect people to nature by leading outdoor adventure trips and teaching natural history.  Currently she teaches in an alternative high school program in south Seattle that focuses on environmental leadership and service.  Lauren is excited to bring her experience working with adolescents into her work as a guide for 4-H Youth Rite of Passage.  marzillm@hsd401.org

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