Albany Academy Walks to Support Clean Water Access

Students, faculty, and staff recently took part in a “Walk for Water” at Albany Academy, raising awareness and funds to support WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) initiatives in Nicaragua. The community came together to learn about global issues related to safe drinking water, proper disposal of waste, and hygiene practices.

Specifically, this year’s Walk for Water effort raised funds for El Porvenir, a frontline development organization, to help build a latrine and handwashing station for a community school in Nicaragua.

The walk was organized in partnership with Albany Academy students alongside faculty member Chris Conway, whose connection to Nicaragua spans decades through service learning and humanitarian work. In total, close to $4,000 was raised and participation from last year’s inaugural event tripled.

“At Academy, we want students to understand that learning extends far beyond textbooks,” Conway shared. “Working side by side with

an organization like El Porvenir helps students see both the challenges people face and the impact they can make.”

The Walk for Water invited students to physically experience a small part of what many people around the world face daily: walking long distances to access clean water, then carrying it back to their homes. Through participation and fundraising, students deepened their understanding of global inequities.

The initiative reflects Albany Academy’s broader mission of developing curious, compassionate, and globally minded students who are prepared to lead with purpose. Whether through classroom discussions, service learning opportunities, or community partnerships, Academy students are encouraged to connect learning with real-world impact.

CBS6 Albany Coverage of Walk for Water Event 2026