Written By Brooke Wilson, EENC Board Member At-Large EENC is so proud to be able to offer mini-grants for the 8th year in a row! There were so many wonderful project proposals this year. We are excited to award grant funds to six members who will receive funds totaling just shy of $1,000. This means that the total awarded grant funds spanning over the last 8 years have reached over $14,000. This was all used in direct support of the creative ideas, professional development, program supply purchases, and so much more that assisted individuals and organizations to help promote the field of Environmental Education. These project proposals directly align with the mission, vision, and values of EENC. When we consider the reach and impact of what these projects can accomplish, we eagerly look forward to December every year when we get the report of how these mini-grants helped to advance the field of Environmental Education in North Carolina. We could not carry forth our mission without the support of our members, and when we are able to reach out and provide support in return, it makes it all worthwhile. Check out the full map of all of EENC's Mini-Grant Awardees from over the year by clicking here! The 2026 EENC Mini-Grant program is made possible by the generous support of the EENC donor community. Without their continued and ongoing support, we would not be able to provide this opportunity. Consider a donation today to continue this program in years to come! Curious about what our mini-grant awardees will be doing with their awarded funds? Check out their project plans below and make sure to check back at the end of the year to see all of their accomplishments! Awardees Listed alphabetically by first name Daniel Woody Community Garden Manager, Villages at Washington Terrace Project Title: Community Garden at Washington Garden Enhancement Project “As Community Garden Manager at the Villages at Washington Terrace, I aim to expand and revitalize our community garden to improve food access, environmental literacy, and resident engagement. Southeast Raleigh faces persistent food insecurity, and many residents—especially seniors and those with limited mobility—benefit from hyper‑local access to fresh produce. The project will enhance soil quality, add nutrient amendments, introduce starter plants, and provide educational materials that teach residents how to grow food sustainably. Workshops will cover soil health, composting, pollinator‑friendly practices, and seasonal planting. These sessions will connect residents to core environmental education principles: understanding ecosystems, conserving resources, and recognizing human impacts on the environment. This project will also support my professional development through environmental education workshops, strengthening my ability to teach and lead. By improving both the physical garden and the educational programming around it, the project will create a more resilient, informed, and empowered community.” Darlene McDowell High School Science Teacher, Central Carolina Academy Project Title: Ocean Life: Innovative Marine Science Labs and Paper Dissections “This project will promote excellence in environmental education in North Carolina by expanding access to high-quality marine science instructional materials for my students. This project includes a comprehensive marine science lab manual , a teacher guide, and paper-based marine species dissections that allow students to explore marine anatomy, biodiversity, and ecosystem relationships without requiring preserved specimens. I want to provide engaging, classroom-ready materials to my students that support inquiry, critical thinking, and environmental awareness. This project strengthens the quality of marine science education and helps students better understand the ecological systems that influence North Carolina's coastal environment.” Kayla McCoy Director of Soil & Water, Wilkes County Project Title: Project SWAT-BMP Lesson Educator Kits “The Wilkes Soil & Water Conservation District will equip 13 educators with comprehensive hands-on lesson kits during the Project SWAT (Soil, Water, Agriculture Training) Workshop on August 19th. The central lesson, “The ABCs of BMPs for Livestock,” addresses the need to make abstract water quality concepts visible. Using materials like pool noodles and bandanas to simulate cattle and vegetative buffers, students act out the mechanics of erosion and nutrient runoff. This project empowers teachers to transform classrooms into interactive laboratories, bridging the gap between agricultural production and environmental stewardship. It is rooted in the fundamentals of environmental education by encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving, moving from general awareness to an understanding of specific, actionable solutions (BMPs) grounded in North Carolina’s agricultural context.” Keshi Satterwhite Executive Director, Planning Ahead Project Title: Ready Together: Community Education for Extreme Heat and Flood Preparedness “Many residents in Durham, North Carolina face increasing risks from extreme heat and flooding but lack accessible, locally relevant information about environmental systems and preparedness. Our workshop addresses this need through a community-based environmental education program that helps residents understand how climate change, urban development, and watershed dynamics contribute to environmental hazards in their neighborhoods. Participants engage in hands-on learning activities, including community mapping and guided discussions, to explore how stormwater systems, land use, and local environmental conditions influence flooding and heat exposure. The workshop connects environmental science concepts to everyday decision-making by teaching practical, low-cost strategies residents can use to protect their health, homes, and communities. By combining place-based learning with real-world problem solving, the program strengthens environmental literacy, promotes systems thinking, and empowers participants to become informed stewards of their local environment.” Monique McKoy Schools in Parks Specialist, NC State Parks Project Title: Our State Tree Teacher Kits “I would like to create and distribute classroom-ready kits for an activity I created called “Our State Tree,” centered on NC pine species and their importance in shaping our state. These will be given to teachers who will be a part of the Jones Lake Schools in Parks program for the 2026-27 school year. Many teachers I’ve encountered have expressed interest in this sort of activity but lack the time and resources to develop engaging, curriculum-aligned lessons, especially those requiring materials. This project addresses that need by providing kits with lesson plans and student materials. The project will positively impact students by increasing environmental literacy through active learning. Students will explore pine characteristics and ecosystem connections through interactive activities that promote observation and scientific thinking. This project is grounded in the fundamentals of environmental education by fostering awareness of local ecosystems and building skills for understanding human/environmental interactions. Pine is one of the most recognized trees for students and this helps them form a deeper connection to the resource that has shaped the state they live in.” Nora Skinner Environmental Programs Coordinator, Town of Apex Project Title: The Peak of Environmental Education! “This project will establish foundational supplies for Apex’s new Environmental Programs Department, currently led by just one staff member- me! By investing in reusable materials, I will lead engaging, low-barrier programs such as Gyotaku (fish printing), animal track identification, and other environmental crafts. Supplies like track models, laminatable materials, brushes, and fabric or paper will be reused across multiple programs, maximizing impact and cost efficiency. As a brand-new position, this initiative fills a gap in community-based environmental education in Apex. These programs will offer accessible opportunities for residents of all ages to connect with nature, build community, and explore the natural world. Grounded in environmental education principles, these experiences will promote lifelong learning and encourage responsible stewardship.”

This week, EENC's Board of Directors and staff met for their first Board Meeting of 2026 and to kick off our Emerald Jubilee, celebrating our 35th anniversary as a nonprofit organization. At this meeting, we welcomed six new amazing individuals as they start their tenure helping lead the Environmental Educators of North Carolina forward into the future. Each of these individuals submitted their applications, interviewed with Board leadership, proposed to the whole Board, and was overwhelmingly approved by members. Here is a little more about these champions for environmental education. Sydney Danby Piedmont Section Chair I am excited to join the E.E. team to be able to use my experience and knowledge to help other environmental educators be the best we all can be! Helping future generations understand the importance of our natural resources has always been my top academic and professional goal. I also bring experience in international agricultural education, which focused heavily on hands-on approaches to learning. Fun Fact: I have travelled to 12 countries and lived abroad with a farming family in the Alps! Emily Behr Central Section Chair I’m so excited to join the board as the Central Section Chair! Environmental Education is so important to youth development and supporting our next generation of environmental stewards. I can’t wait to build connections across central North Carolina, share ideas, and inspire others who care deeply about this work. Fun Fact: Before I got into youth development work, I worked in music and helped Elijah Wood start a record label called Simian Records. Brooke Wilson Board Member at Large I am excited to get a chance to work with an amazing group of Environmental Educators. I look forward to hopefully contributing towards the advancement of this field and making a difference on the board by helping to raise awareness for our initiatives, assisting with the planning of conferences and other events, and helping EENC grow and advance towards its overall goals. Fun Fact: I have spent the majority of my career in some form of a Zookeeper role. I have cared for a wide variety of animals from Manatees and Sea Turtles to Red Wolves and Black Bears. Rachel Bentley Board Member at Large I am excited to join the Board of Directors as a Board Member-at-Large and help further EENC’s mission, work collaboratively with educators across all regions of North Carolina, and give back to the community that has inspired and supported me throughout my professional journey. Fun Fact: I am an avid birder. My all-time favorite bird is a Great Blue Heron! Lauren Daniel Board Member at Large I’m excited to support a statewide network of environmental stewards dedicated to connecting communities with nature through education. Fun Fact: I’m a US Coast Guard approved boat captain (OUPV) and my favorite activity is exploring Eastern NC estuaries with my husband, son, and dog, Otis. Erika Young Board Member at Large I am excited to join the board of EENC! I look forward to serving and collaborating with so many passionate educators! I am proud to be a supporter of environmental education for ALL individuals, as we say in Sea Grant, from K-GRAY! Fun Fact: I am a potter and sculptor and have won a few ribbons and awards! Needless to say, EENC is honored to have such an amazing group of individuals join this organization and further our mission to build connections, provide professional development, and promote excellence for North Carolina's community of environmental educators. This crew is hitting the ground running with all of the exciting things we have planned for 2026 and beyond. From book clubs to new workshops and so much more, we are so excited for what's ahead. You can meet all of EENC's Board of Directors and staff by clicking here . In Community, Will Freund EENC Past-President

Presentation slides used for the meeting featuring different discussion topics EENC hosted its Annual Organization Leadership Meeting this week, bringing together staff from the Organizational Members for conversation and collaboration. This year's conversation started with participants sharing their Roses, Thorns, and Buds for their programs and organizations this year. We heard stories of celebration around taking on new positions and programs, as well as stories of resilience and return after the impacts of Helene and budget roadblocks. While there were also tales of struggle around turnover and transitions with staff, and limitations on the Americorps program budgeting as well as state budgeting, we also learned that there are so many exciting new programs coming up in 2026 for all of the participants! Attendees shared challenges and success around staff recruitment and retention: How often to hire seasonal staff? How to keep staff engaged and committed to the organization? What are some successful ways everyone has built connection in their teams? We also learned about some of the amazing partnerships that are happening across the state, bringing new audiences to each location and/or taking that organization's programs to the communities. Some partners included the TEACCH Autism Program from Chapel Hill, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, the NC State Extension offices, and shared contracts with private companies for property use and programming in order to gain additional income. The final "Hot Topic" included shared updates from the NAAEE Conference, and specifically the conversations around AI and EE: ethics, best practices, and how to use it. There will be more details coming from the NAAEE Affiliate Network after the new year, and in the meantime, EENC is planning a webinar presentation on this topic. We want to hear from you! Are you working for an EE organziation that could use some collaboration and feedback from likeminded or mission aligned organizations? Please consider joining EENC at the Organizational Membership Level , and be part of the conversation!

Thank you for your interest in joining EENC's Board of Directors! Join Our Board The EENC Nomination Committee has opened applications for the 2026 Board of Directors! Thank you for your interest in a position on the Environmental Educators of North Carolina Board of Directors. Please complete this form to allow us to learn more about your interests and qualifications. Click the link below to complete the application, or scroll further down to fill it out on this page. If you have any questions about specific positions, serving on the board in general, OR need to submit responses in an alternative format, don't hesitate to get in touch with Kyra Thurow Bartow, EENC Past-President, kyra@eenc.org. Do you know someone with skills that would complement our organization's mission? Please send their contact information to Kyra. Click Here to Complete the Board Application Position Description Position Overview Key Responsibilities Qualifications Terms and Compensation Position Overview: Board Members at EENC play a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction of the organization. By utilizing their expertise, commitment, and passion, they contribute to realizing EENC's mission of building connections, providing professional development, and promoting excellence for North Carolina's environmental educators. As a board member, you will actively engage in decision-making, collaborate with fellow board members, and provide oversight to ensure the organization's values and objectives are upheld. Key Responsibilities: Strategic Leadership: Contribute to the development and refinement of EENC's strategic plan, ensuring alignment with the organization's mission and long-term goals. Governance and Oversight: Participate in board meetings, offering insights on critical decisions, policies, and initiatives. Uphold the highest ethical standards and ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations when applicable. Financial Stewardship: Review and approve EENC's budget, financial reports, and audits. Monitor financial performance to ensure responsible fiscal management. Advocacy and Resource Development: Support fundraising efforts by leveraging personal networks, identifying potential donors or partners, and actively participating in fundraising campaigns and events. Community Engagement: Act as an advocate for EENC, raising awareness about its mission and impact within the community. Attend public events, engage with stakeholders, and foster connections. Risk Management: Identify potential risks and collaborate with fellow board members and staff to implement strategies that mitigate these risks while ensuring the organization's success. Collaborative Approach: Work closely with other board members, the executive director, and staff, cultivating a collaborative environment that embraces diverse perspectives to achieve organizational goals. Committee Engagement: Contribute your expertise to relevant board committees (e.g., finance, advocacy, program) as needed to address specific areas of focus. Term and Compensation: Board members typically serve renewable terms, with each term lasting 2-3 years depending on the position. Time commitment varies, with Board Members at Large typically serving approximately 10 hours per month. This is a voluntary role without monetary compensation. However, it provides an invaluable opportunity to contribute to a significant cause and make a lasting impact on the environmental education community. Qualifications: Passion for Mission: A genuine dedication to EENC's mission and objectives, with a strong desire to contribute positively to the environmental education community. Expertise: Relevant experience or skills in areas such as environmental education, nonprofit management, advocacy, fundraising, or related fields. Leadership Abilities: Ability to think strategically, make informed decisions, and collaborate effectively within a diverse team. Effective Communication: Strong interpersonal and communication skills, along with the capability to professionally represent EENC and cultivate relationships with stakeholders. Time Commitment: Willingness to dedicate the necessary time for board meetings, committee participation, and additional responsibilities as required. Integrity: Demonstrated commitment to ethical conduct and upholding EENC's core values.

EENC hosts an annual conference to gather environmental educators from across the state for networking and professional learning. Join us in September for our next conference! 2026 EENC Conference Emerald Pathways: From Triangle Roots to Carolina Horizons Registration is Open! EENC's 2026 conference will be at NC State’s McKimmon Conference & Training Center in Raleigh, NC! This year’s conference will be held from Friday, September 11, to Saturday, September 12, 2026. Plan ahead for pre-conference workshops, field trips, and more on Thursday, September 10. About our Sessions: Our proposal form is closed, and we'll be releasing our schedule in mid June. Our strands this year are Carolina Connections, Leading the Charge, Hidden Gems Rooted in All of Us, Hands-on Minds-On, and Empowering Educators with Applied Research. We can't wait to learn with you and from you! Attention Exhibitors! Would you like to showcase your organization or program? You can set up a table during the conference to share information about what you do. Organizational Members with a Platinum, Titanium, or Diamond level membership get to the table for free! Review our Sponsor Packet for more information. Lodging and FAQs : Raleigh area lodging accommodations for the conference . Schedule: The 2026 schedule is not yet available. You won't want to miss these amazing sessions! Conference Apparel : https://www.bonfire.com/store/eenc/ Scholarships : Apply now through July 1 for financial assistance . Online Auction : The 2026 auction proceeds will be earmarked for supporting EENC's programs, including scholarships, curriculum updates, and more. This funding makes professional learning as accessible as possible for our EE community! Sponsor Packet Schedule Coming Soon 2026 Conference Keynotes Maria Pinto Liz Z. Pardue Pre-Conference Field Trips & Workshop EENC Book Club, July - December 2026 Wed, Jul 01 Online Course Join EENC's semi-annual book club for monthly connection and conversation around some great eco-forward titles. +19 more RSVP 2026 Pre-Conference Workshop: Two Trees, One Seed! Thu, Sep 10 Walnut Creek Wetland Center This workshop will be a unique exploration of Project Learning Tree and NAAEE Guidelines for Excellence focusing on Early Childhood. RSVP Membership Offer 2026 Pre-Conference: Red Wolf Conservation with the Museum of Life and Science Thu, Sep 10 Museum of Life and Science This field trip will provide a hands on learning experience to better understand the conservation efforts that go into protecting North Carolina's Red Wolf population. See All Buy Tickets Membership Offer 2026 Pre-Conference: Emerald Pathways, Through a Troll's Eyes Thu, Sep 10 Dix Park This field trip visits the Dambo Troll residents of Dix Park and honors their mission of environmental conservation through Community Science Projects. See All Buy Tickets 2026 Conference Sponsors Presenting Keynote Friday Evening Social Coffee Hour Networking Lunch Silent Auction Friends of EENC Interested in sponsoring the EENC conference? Explore our Sponsor Packet . Theme Emerald Pathways: From Triangle Roots to Carolina Horizons Strands Empowering Educators with Applied Research : These presentations focus on bridging research with practice so that educators—whether they’re in formal classrooms, outdoor education centers, museums, or community spaces—can foster environmental literacy in ways that resonate with all learners. Examples could include evidence-based teaching methods, Community specific education, benefits of interdisciplinary connections, or trauma-informed approaches. By using research-backed, mission-driven, and action-oriented strategies, this category helps educators transform the way environmental education is delivered—making it more open, engaging, and impactful. Hands-On Minds-On : These presentations will showcase practical activities, field skills, demonstrations, and walking workshops that exemplify the essence of EE. They are designed to be interactive and demonstrate both the 'what' and 'how' of EE. Examples include activity demonstrations, activity guides, and identification skills workshops. Carolina Connections: Celebrating regional environmental education stories and partnerships. Sessions highlight successful collaborations across North Carolina, place-based learning rooted in local ecosystems, and how our Triangle roots have grown into broader regional impact. Leading the Charge : For program managers, directors, and center leaders navigating the unique challenges of running environmental education programs. Sessions tackle strategic planning, fundraising, staff development, and board relations—plus honest conversations about what's working (and what's not) at centers across the region. Hidden Gems, Rooted in All of Us : The richest gems in environmental education aren't found in any single curriculum guide — they're found in the full diversity of voices, communities, and ways of knowing that have shaped how we teach people to love and care for this planet. This strand celebrates 35 years of stories that haven't always made it to the main stage: indigenous land wisdom, community-led conservation, multilingual nature education, and the educators who've been doing transformative work in the margins. Come ready to dig, listen, and leave with a richer understanding of what our field can be when everyone belongs in it. 2026 Conference Exhibitors About The Location: The McKimmon Conference and Training Center at NC State University is a premier facility dedicated to hosting a wide range of educational events, from conferences and workshops to training sessions and seminars. With our versatile spaces and state-of-the-art technology, the center is equipped to cater to both large and small conferences and events, providing an ideal setting for professional development and continuing education. Additional conference information will be published here as it becomes available. Check back frequently for the latest details! Estimated Release Dates: Request for Session Proposals – April Keynote Speaker Announcement – April Sponsorship Opportunities – May Keynote Speaker Announcement – May Award Nominations – Open June 15 and Close July 20 Pre-Conference Workshops and Field Trips – May Early Bird Registration – June 9th (June 2nd for Members) General Registration – July Schedule – July Previous Conferences 2025 2024 2023 Recognizing Excellence in Environmental Education On Saturday, September 20, 2025, the Environmental Educators of North Carolina held their annual awards ceremony during their conference at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College in Asheville, North Carolina. will.freund13 Silent Auction + Scholarships= Mutualism! EENC's Annual Conference has always had the goal of bringing together educators for idea sharing, networking, and an overall good time.... EENC Staff Team Recap & Gallery: 2023 EENC Conference Early this month, EENC friends and members gathered at Rockfish Camp and Retreat Center in Parkton for our 32nd annual conference, guided... EENC Staff Team

Find your environmental education community in North Carolina with EENC! Take a workshop, build connections, become a member, apply for funding, and more... EENC Find your community . Conference registration is OPEN! Snag early-bird pricing before it's gone! 2026 Conference Info Let's Learn Together Mon, Jun 01 Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Environmental Education – Online Course / Details Jun 01, 2026, 9:00 AM – Jul 24, 2026, 6:00 PM Online Course This course is designed to provide a strong foundation in the language, concepts and principles of equity work for environmental educators and environmental professionals. Wed, Jul 01 EENC Book Club, July - December 2026 / RSVP Jul 01, 2026, 9:00 AM – Dec 17, 2026, 7:00 PM Online Course Join EENC's semi-annual book club for monthly connection and conversation around some great eco-forward titles. Mon, Jul 27 Embracing Evaluation in Environmental Education / Buy Tickets Jul 27, 2026, 7:00 AM – Sep 11, 2026, 5:00 PM Online Course By giving more environmental educators the tools to carry out meaningful evaluations, we can improve our efforts to build a healthier and more equitable future. Mon, Jul 27 EE and the NC Science Standards / Buy Tickets Jul 27, 2026, 9:00 AM – Aug 24, 2026, 5:00 PM Online Course This course is designed to help formal and non-formal educators understand North Carolina state science standards and how environmental education can apply to those standards when planning lessons and curricula for school-age audiences. Thu, Sep 10 2026 Pre-Conference Workshop: Two Trees, One Seed! / RSVP Sep 10, 2026, 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM Walnut Creek Wetland Center, 950 Peterson St, Raleigh, NC 27610, USA This workshop will be a unique exploration of Project Learning Tree and NAAEE Guidelines for Excellence focusing on Early Childhood. Thu, Sep 10 2026 Pre-Conference: Red Wolf Conservation with the Museum of Life and Science / Buy Tickets Sep 10, 2026, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Museum of Life and Science, 433 W Murray Ave, Durham, NC 27704, USA This field trip will provide a hands on learning experience to better understand the conservation efforts that go into protecting North Carolina's Red Wolf population. Thu, Sep 10 2026 Pre-Conference: Emerald Pathways, Through a Troll's Eyes / Buy Tickets Sep 10, 2026, 12:30 PM – 4:30 PM Dix Park, 1030 Richardson Dr, Raleigh, NC 27603, USA This field trip visits the Dambo Troll residents of Dix Park and honors their mission of environmental conservation through Community Science Projects. Fri, Sep 11 EENC 2026 Annual Conference / Buy Tickets Sep 11, 2026, 8:30 AM – Sep 12, 2026, 5:00 PM McKimmon Center, McKimmon Center, 1101 Gorman St, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA The 2026 conference will be September 11-12 at McKimmon Center in Raleigh, with pre-conference programs taking place on the 10th. Lates t News Congratulations to EENC’s 2026 Mini-Grant Awardees EENC is so proud to be able to offer mini-grants for the 8th year in a row! Jun 12 Welcoming EENC's Newest Board Members At this meeting, we welcomed six new amazing individuals as they start their tenure helping lead the Environmental Educators of North Carolina forward into the future. Jan 15 Collaborative Connections: Notes from EENC's Annual Organization Leaders Meeting Presentation slides used for the meeting featuring different discussion topics EENC hosted its Annual Organization Leadership Meeting this week, bringing together staff from the Organizational Members for conversation and collaboration. This year's conversation started with participants sharing their Roses, Thorns, and Buds for their programs and organizations this year. We heard stories of celebration around taking on new positions and programs, as well as stories of resilie Nov 14, 2025 Recognizing Excellence in Environmental Education On Saturday, September 20, 2025, the Environmental Educators of North Carolina held their annual awards ceremony during their conference at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College in Asheville, North Carolina. Sep 22, 2025 EENC Joins EarthShare NC EarthShare NC's Nonprofit Members represent the breadth of work needed to take care of the people and natural treasures that make North... Sep 14, 2025 Announcing the Release of EENC’s 2025-2027 Strategic Plan The Environmental Educators of North Carolina is thrilled to share our newest Strategic Plan. Aug 14, 2025 1 2 3 4 5 “I joined EENC shortly after moving to North Carolina. Coming from an environmental education background, I knew that the best way to make connections with other professionals in the field would be through this organization. EENC provides numerous opportunities to network, build community, and to feel supported. During my time as a member I have had the opportunity to meet and learn from so many talented individuals in conservation and conservation education, and this has certainly helped me grow as an educator.” -Breanna Walker, 2023 Board Piedmont Section Chair Champion Sponsor