In honor of the United States’ 250th Anniversary, Georgetown Preparatory School’s Global Scholars Program offered Project Americana, a unique Spring Break experience from March 20-25, 2026 that brought students face-to-face with the awe-inspiring beauty of some of Utah’s National Parks: Zion National Park, Arches National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, and Canyonlands National Park.

Global Scholars, a program dedicated to academic discourse, travel, and adventure, brought to life this immersive journey to deepen students’ understanding of America’s natural treasures. Inspired by Laudato Si' by Pope Francis, which calls for care of God’s creation, ten Prep students experienced firsthand the wonder of Utah’s dramatic landscapes while reflecting on humanity’s relationship with the natural world.

Traveling by bus, raft, and foot, the Hoyas explored some of the country’s most iconic terrain while also examining the deep historical connections between these lands and Native American cultures. Through this experience, students engaged in critical thinking, strengthened analytical skills, and embraced creative problem-solving-hallmarks of a Jesuit education.

At Zion National Park, the group took in panoramic views of Zion Canyon along the Kayenta Trail, hiking above the Virgin River toward the Emerald Pools. They also ventured into the famed Narrows, braving cool waters and narrow passageways beneath towering sandstone walls rising nearly 2,000 feet.

“Going to Zion National Park on the Global Scholars trip was a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” shared Bryan Roh ’28. “The beauty was immediately set when we spotted bighorn sheep on the rocks driving into the park. As we passed through the Mount Carmel Tunnel, the views were incredible. The Emerald Pools trail offered a mix of rivers, mountains, forests, and canyons. The views can only be described as the capabilities of what God is able to create.”

The Hoyas also explored Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, where windswept dunes, formed from eroding Navajo sandstone over thousands of years, created a striking and ever-changing landscape.

At Bryce Canyon National Park, students hiked the Navajo Loop Trail into the park’s famous amphitheater of hoodoos, marveling at the unique rock formations sculpted by erosion.

Continuing their journey, the group visited Balanced Rock under a brilliant night sky. The Hoyas hiked also to Delicate Arch, the park’s iconic 52-foot freestanding natural arch.

“The Global Scholars ‘Mighty 5’ trip was a valuable experience,” said James DeBardelaben ’27. “It provided the opportunity for us to experience this nation’s most beautiful national parks while bonding with our Prep brothers.”

On their final day, the Hoyas explored Canyonlands National Park, hiking along the canyon’s edge on the View Point Overlook Trail and taking in sweeping, 360-degree views of the vast landscape below.

Reflecting on the journey, Cole Pierson ’27 shared, “Throughout our lives, there are a handful of experiences that impact us long after we leave; the Global Scholars trip certainly fits that description. I’ll forever be grateful for Georgetown Prep giving me the opportunity to experience the Mighty 5.”

Project Americana exemplifies the mission of the Global Scholars Program, combining academic exploration with transformative travel experiences that broaden perspectives, deepen understanding, and create lasting memories.