See the schedule and description of EENC's 2022 conference, held in Raleigh. 2022 Conference Join us for the 31st Annual Environmental Educators of North Carolina conference at NC State’s McKimmon Conference & Training Center in Raleigh, NC! This year’s conference will be held September 9 to Saturday September 10, 2022. Plan ahead now for pre-conference workshops, field trips, and more on Thursday, September 8. We are excited to announce that the 2022 conference theme is rEEdefine: redefining how we connect, reflect and identify in the field of Environmental Education. During the conference, we will delve deeper into what EE looks like in our state, the exciting and surprising places where EE is happening, and why EE should be designed for and accessible to everyone. If you have any questions about the conference, please contact Michelle Pearce at programs @eenc.org . Keynote Speaker: Dr. Rasul Mowatt Our Keynote speaker will be NC State’s very own Dr. Rasul Mowatt, Department Head of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management. Dr. Mowatt’s research centers on the production and restructuring of urban space, primarily within cities, and how that impacts what we understand to be the function of race, gender and class in a society. Most recently his teaching and research culminated in his book titled "The Geographies of Threat and the Production of Violence: The State and the City Between Us,” published by Routledge press in 2021. In his free time, Dr. Mowatt is a DJ. Schedule

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! 2024 EENC Confernece #EENC2024: Imagining SustainablE FuturEs EENC's 2024 conference took place September 13th and 14th at Catawba College in Salisbury, with a pre-conference workshop and field trips taking place on the 12th. We thank the Catawba College Center for the Environment for their generous in-kind facility donation for our conference sessions and gatherings! 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! Lodging : We’re happy to be working with Dan Nicholas Park to provide camping options, and Holiday Inn Express Salisbury for hotel accommodations. 2024 Conference Schedule View Now 2024 Conference Sponsors Presenting Catawba College Center for the Environment Advocate Acorn Naturalist 2nd Nature TREC Supporter Murphy's Naturals Interested in sponsoring the EENC conference? Explore our Sponsor Packet . 2024 Conference Theme: The 2024 conference theme is Imagining SustainablE FuturEs . During the conference, we will examine present-day issues to explore the future of environmental education in North Carolina. Through capacity building, engagement, and practical innovation we will dream big about what environmental education can look like and build skills for how we get there. 2024 Conference Session Strands: The Future of Community Engagement: Environmental education (EE) can take place anywhere and involve anyone. This track will explore how EE can empower students through formal education, enable youth to be active contributors, and engage community members who are not typically represented in EE. Sessions will focus on the diverse ways EE can engage different audiences, such as visitor engagement, youth empowerment, higher education, adult education, and partnership projects. The Future of Capacity Building: EE relies on the people and organizations that do the hard work. This track will delve into effective techniques for building capacity in organizations to promote growth, innovation, and sustainability. Examples include evaluation, strategic planning, facility management, and equitable pay and hiring practices. The Future of Environmental Literacy: These sessions will examine what it means to be environmentally literate in 2024. How can we support environmental literacy in classrooms and beyond, and how might it be influenced by current issues? Topics include climate education, formal education, and systems thinking. Research to Action: These presentations will highlight the research conducted by you and/or your organization in the field, as well as its practical applications. For instance, you might present the findings of a study on intergenerational learning and then discuss strategies for engaging audiences in such learning experiences. 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. About The Location: Just an hour from both the Triad and Charlotte Metro areas, Catawba College is situated conveniently in the heart of EENC's Piedmont Section. Our gracious hosts at the Catawba College Center for the Environment are opening their campus to our community: we can't wait for you to enjoy their AASHE STARS Silver rated, carbon-neutral facility, as well as the neighboring college-owned Fred Stanback Jr. Ecological Preserve. "Since its founding in 1996, the Center has led a living-learning laboratory for campus sustainability that provides hands-on environmental learning opportunities for Catawba’s students while helping them learn how to advocate for and lead positive environmental change. The Center also serves as a research, convening and policy development hub for issues ranging from regional air and water quality to state and national environmental and energy policies. The Center is housed in a stunning structure that emerges from a sloping stand of hardwood trees at the edge of the College's 189-acre ecological preserve. Every aspect of the building embodies leading sustainability principles, which creates one of the most sought-after spaces for environmental gatherings in North Carolina." 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 Award Nominations – May Sponsorship Opportunities – May Pre-Conference Workshops and Field Trips – May Schedule – July Early Bird Registration – July General Registration – August Other Previous Conferences 2023 2022 2021 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

EENC Members have the exclusive opportunity to apply for fiscal sponsorship here. Fiscal Sponsorship Opportunities Classroom teachers, independent contractors, and others educator without nonprofit 501(c)3 status who are EENC members may apply for EENC to serve as a fiscal sponsor if they need help qualifying for grants or accepting tax-deductible charitable contributions. Fiscal sponsorship is a member benefit . Professional, Student, Senior, New to EE, Life, and all Organizational Members may log in to learn more about the application process for fiscal sponsorship in the Member Area of our website. "Using a fiscal sponsorship arrangement offers a way for a cause to attract donors even when it is not yet recognized as tax-exempt under Internal Revenue Code Section 501(c)(3). In essence the fiscal sponsor serves as the administrative "home" of the cause. Charitable contributions are given to the fiscal sponsor, which then grants them to support the cause. " ~ National Council of Nonprofits

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 . We build connections, provide professional development, and promote excellence for North Carolina's community of environmental educators. Become a Member Today Let's Learn Together Thu, Jan 01 EENC Book Club / Details Jan 01, 2026, 8:00 AM – Jun 18, 2026, 8:00 PM Online Course Join EENC's semi-annual book club for monthly connection and conversation around some great eco-forward titles. Mon, Apr 06 EE and the NC Science Standards / Details Apr 06, 2026, 9:00 AM – May 01, 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. Mon, May 04 Methods of Teaching Environmental Education Online Workshop (MOTEE) / Buy Tickets May 04, 2026, 9:00 AM – May 22, 2026, 6:00 PM Online Course Helps practitioners create inclusive and age-appropriate learning experiences, gain group management skills, practice teaching methods to promote inquiry, and gain skills in designing objectives, lessons, and assessments for EE programs using NC Essential Standards as a foundation. Thu, May 07 Section Event: Garden Tour at Paul J. Ciener Botanical Garden / Buy Tickets May 07, 2026, 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM Paul J. Ciener Botanical Garden, 215 S Main St, Kernersville, NC 27284, USA Section Events are intended to bring together folks from a region of the state for a special learning and networking opportunity. Sat, May 09 Section Event: Garden Tour at Asheville Botanical Garden / Buy Tickets May 09, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM Asheville Botanical Garden, 151 WT Weaver Blvd, Asheville, NC 28804, USA Section Events are intended to bring together folks from a region of the state for a special learning and networking opportunity. Sat, May 16 Section Event: Garden Tour at Duke Gardens / Buy Tickets May 16, 2026, 9:15 AM – 10:45 AM Duke Gardens, 420 Anderson St, Durham, NC 27705, USA Section Events are intended to bring together folks from a region of the state for a special learning and networking opportunity. Fri, May 22 Section Event: Garden Tour at Airlie Gardens / Buy Tickets May 22, 2026, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM Airlie Gardens, 300 Airlie Rd, Wilmington, NC 28403, USA Section Events are intended to bring together folks from a region of the state for a special learning and networking opportunity. 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. Lates t News 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 Announcing EENC’s 2025 Mini-Grant Awardees Now in its 7th year, we are excited to continue our successful mini-grant program in supporting the teachers, non-formal educators, government employees, students, and volunteers we work with across North Carolina. Jun 15, 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

Thank you for your interest in joining EENC's Staff team! Join Our Team The application window for the Operations and Development Lead position is now closed. Applications are currently under review; all applicants will be contacted the week of April 22nd. Interviews will be held between April 22nd and May 1st. Interview scheduling options include weekday business hours, evenings, and weekends. We will ask for references after interviews have been conducted. We anticipate a target start date of June 1, 2024. EENC is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate of race, color, religious creed, gender, national origin, ancestry, marital status, age, sexual orientation, or disability. Environmental Educators of North Carolina Operations and Development Lead The Environmental Educators of North Carolina (EENC) is a dynamic community of environmental educators dedicated to fostering connections, providing professional development, and promoting excellence in environmental education. Established in 1990, EENC has grown into a broad network of passionate individuals and organizations collaborating to achieve its core mission. We provide the forum to bring people together, leverage resources, and unite our voices across the state. Role Overview: As Operations & Development Lead, you will be pivotal in shaping our organization's operational efficiency and financial sustainability while driving strategic development initiatives. This position encompasses a range of responsibilities, including business management, fundraising, and collaborative leadership. You will work closely with the other two staff members, the Programming Lead and the Communications & Relationships Lead. This position is full-time (average of 35 hours per week), remote within North Carolina, with some travel required. Most travel is within the state. Shared Leadership: EENC practices shared leadership, a non-hierarchical approach to organizational structuring that prioritizes collaborative accountability and decision-making responsibilities to define and achieve strategic goals. All staff are formally employed by the board, and important decisions are made among staff, between staff and board members or committees, and at the board level as defined in our decision-making model. All staff members report to one another regularly on progress and challenges. Staff serve as liaisons to board committees and routinely communicate with board leaders to plan and implement projects. Our shared leadership model empowers both individual and collective decision-making; therefore, all team members must be able to self-motivate and take ownership of their individual tasks while contributing effectively to shared goals and initiatives. Ongoing, transparent, frequent communication among team members is integral to this model. For more about this model, review our Shared Leadership Statement . Key Responsibilities: Business Operations (50%): Oversee routine operations including budgeting, finance, payroll, benefits, HR, organizational policies, etc. Develop and implement strategic plans to optimize business operations and align them with organizational goals. Guide long-term business and financial planning. Ensure legal and regulatory compliance for the organization in collaboration with the Board of Directors leadership, including taxes, solicitation license, and non-profit policy compliance Fundraising and Development (50%): Align development strategies with the overall goals and mission of EENC. Design and execute comprehensive fundraising strategies with diverse revenue streams with an emphasis on grant writing and donor cultivation. Lead the development and implementation of engaging fundraising campaigns and events, major gift campaigns, and sponsorships. Fundraising events and campaigns are coordinated in collaboration with staff and Board committees. Assess financial data, measure performance, and guide data-driven decisions related to organization’s $225,000 annual budget. Regularly report on key performance indicators related to business operations, development efforts, and risk management. Serve as staff liaison to the Board of Directors for the following committees, which collaborate with staff to meet organizational goals: Finance Development Governance Other duties as needed. Who We’re Looking For: We are seeking a strategic thinker who can keep things running smoothly while helping guide long-term plans for EENC’s fiscal sustainability. The Operations & Development Lead should be experienced and comfortable managing budgets, cultivating revenue streams, and successfully executing dynamic projects. The ideal candidate for this new position will be excited to practice shared leadership in EENC’s staff team and eager to foster an expanding community of funders and supporters for our mission. Desired Skills and Experience Proven ability to work effectively with diverse teams, stakeholders, and partners to achieve common goals through leaderful collaboration Ability to manage multiple projects independently and as part of a team Experience with business operations, bookkeeping, or organizational financial management Ability to plan, organize, and think creatively at the systems level Experience developing and leading successful fundraising initiatives Experience writing, managing, and reporting on grants Exceptional writing, networking, and interpersonal skills Background in nonprofit or business leadership, especially collaborating with a non-profit Board of Directors and committees Tech Savvy: Proficient with or able to quickly learn the use of Google Suite, Microsoft Office Suite, Quickbooks Online, and other digital tools including video conferencing, project management, fundraising, and donor management platforms Ability to adapt to changing priorities and environments, with a flexible and proactive approach to challenges. Familiarity with environmental education and an understanding of the field in the state, nationally, and internationally Requirements Diversity Commitment: Demonstrated commitment to fostering justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion within the organization and in external relationships. Residency: North Carolina residency or a commitment to move within 30 days of hire. Driver’s License: A North Carolina driver’s license or the ability to acquire one within 90 days of hire. Travel: Infrequent independent travel in North Carolina for events. Schedule: Work will average 35 hours per week with a flexible schedule. Occasional evening and weekend work is necessary to accommodate special events. Work location: Employee must provide their own work location with reliable internet. We believe that environmental literacy and mutual respect are inherently linked with environmental and social justice, that environmental education and resources should be accessible to all communities, that biodiversity is critical to the success of natural spaces and the diversity of humanity is what makes us stronger, and that we are never done learning and growing as an organization and as individuals. We strongly encourage applications from People of Color, LGBTQ+ people, and those who are members of other marginalized communities. This job description is a general overview, not a mandatory or comprehensive list. We encourage you to apply if you have 75% of the skills and experience listed. Your experience includes paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer and non-traditional work and learning. If you feel passionate about our efforts and believe you have the skills to accomplish the job, we want to hear from you! Salary and Benefits: This full-time exempt salaried position will have a starting annual salary of $40,150 plus a 10% benefit stipend. Additional tangible benefits: Communications stipend for phone/internet ($80 per month) 2% employer-provided retirement contribution (no employee match required) EENC-provided computer, printer, and office supplies Paid professional development 32 days of paid personal leave for vacations, holidays, and other days of your choosing, plus 5 sick days per year Additional intangible benefits: Flexible scheduling Work from home Opportunity to work at a systemic level to support environmental educators and advance environmental education across the state Networking with environmental educators across the state How To Apply: Apply online by submitting our application form (embedded below, also available in-browser ). Resumes and cover letters will NOT be accepted via email. If you have questions, please contact Board Past President Amy Juliana at amy@eenc.org . To apply, you will need to submit: Resume Cover letter that addresses the following (maximum 2 pages): This position requires significant interaction with multiple internal and external stakeholder groups (grantors, staff, Board of Directors, others). Describe your experience interacting with multiple stakeholder groups. Describe a time you managed or developed an organizational or business budget. How did you plan for, track, and evaluate success? Hiring Timeline: Applications accepted through April 12, 2024. Application review period April 14 - April 19, 2024. All applicants will be contacted the following week. We anticipate conducting interviews April 22 - May 1. Interview scheduling options include weekday business hours, evenings, and weekends. We will ask for references after interviews have been conducted. We anticipate a target start date of June 1, 2024. EENC is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate of race, color, religious creed, gender, national origin, ancestry, marital status, age, sexual orientation, or disability.

EENC boasts a statewide community of Organizational Members – entire organizations who have committed to EENC membership. Get to know our nearly 20 organizational members here. Organizational Members We love our Organizational Members! These environmental educational organizations and programs work alongside EENC to advance the field of environmental education in North Carolina. Do you want to see your name on this list? Learn more about the benefits of Organizational Membership and join today . Bronze Members Silver Members Gold Members Platinum Members

Legacy giving is a meaningful way to support EENC – explore opportunities for legacy giving here. Legacy Giving What is the future you want to create? Do you envision a future where communities are empowered to create a just and sustainable world? Do you envision a future where all children have the opportunity to play freely outside? Where all people have access to beautiful natural spaces, and are deeply engaged with caring for these special places? If so, you know that environmental education is critical to making your dream of the future become reality. EENC needs your support to continue to grow our advocacy, partnerships, programs and resources. Together, let’s create a more just and sustainable world. Leave your lasting legacy by including EENC in your planned giving. We are happy to discuss your options, learn more about your vision for the future, and help find the right fit for you and your family. Since our inception, EENC has grown from a small, all-volunteer group in the Triangle to a robust statewide network of hundreds of educators, supported by multiple paid staff. When EENC was founded in 1991, environmental education in North Carolina looked very different than it does today. Now, every high school student in North Carolina studies environmental science before they graduate. Our state’s EE Certification program, supported by dozens of partners like EENC, recognizes educators’ professional expertise and encourages continuous learning. Educators are also now prioritizing justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion - in addition to environmental knowledge - to make environmental education more accessible and welcoming to all. While these are amazing successes, there is still much to be done. More than ever, all children and adults need to know how ecological systems work and why they matter. The health of the environment is inseparable from humans’ well-being and economic prosperity. People require knowledge, tools, and sensitivity to successfully address and solve environmental problems in their daily lives. Your legacy gift will provide EENC with the critical financial resources to ensure its future and ability to support environmental education for future generations. Are you ready to plan your legacy? There are endless variations for how you can implement a planned giving strategy that is tailored to your unique situation. Some common examples include: Bequests, or gifts made as part of a will or trust Naming the Environmental Educators of North Carolina as a beneficiary of a life insurance policy or retirement plan Stocks, bonds, mutual funds or other publicly traded securities Cash or check, in a donation that supports your overall estate planning You can name EENC as a beneficiary of either a specific dollar amount or a fraction of the residual portion of your estate. To leave a gift in your will, simply share this sentence with your attorney or financial planner: “I bequeath $___ or ___% of my estate to the Environmental Educators of North Carolina (Tax ID #56-1715308), 150 Highland Sq Dr #1034, Hendersonville, NC 28792.” If you have decided to include EENC in your estate plans, please let us know! Complete the below form to indicate your interest in EENC's Legacy Giving program. We look forward to being in touch with you soon!

EENC is partnered with statewide and national nonprofits to advance our mission. Here, we share key resource databases from those partners. Resources from Our Partners EENC is lucky to be partnered and affiliated with a variety of organizations that support environmental education. These organizations have distinct missions and visions, but collectively seek to create a rich landscape for environmental education and increased environmental literacy in North Carolina, and across the country. A selection of resource databases from our partners is included below. NC Office of Environmental Education and Public Affairs NC Environmental Educator Certification Program NC & Nearby Intern ship and Job Board Directory of North Carolina Environmental Education Center Resource Database North American Association for Environmental Education eePRO networking and learning community Nationwide Internship and Job Board Environmental Education Research Library Children and Nature Network Children and Nature Research Library Nature News Hub

Through a nine-state, two-phase survey, EENC and our partners at SEEA have gained unprecedented, meaningful insights into the environmental education landscape in the southeast. Explore our methodology and results using the report and accompanying dashboard. SEEA Landscape Analysis About the Analysis Project Background Project Outcomes Key Findings Project Background SEEA, the Southeastern Environmental Education Alliance, is a network of state affiliates of the North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE) in the southeastern region of the U.S. EPA Region 4. SEEA’s mission is to provide southeastern state affiliates and their stakeholders collaborative and capacity building opportunities that demonstrate collective impact and magnify environmental education efforts across the region. In 2020, the Southeastern Environmental Education Alliance embarked on a brand new undertaking — a landscape analysis of environmental education efforts in eight southeastern states. This project was the result of a collective desire to gain an enha nced understanding of the environmental education providers in our region who are working towards similar goals. To understand the landscape of environmental education in the southeast, we surveyed more than seven hundred environmental education providers. This analysis resulted in the development of invaluable tools for looking at the field as a whole. These tools are a visualization of the outcomes of the analysis and can be used to build or strengthen environmental education programs and networks across the Southeast and beyond. Since then, we've expanded the landscape analysis to include K-12 Schools, Teachers, and Administrators. In 2022, we surveyed more than 600 teachers and administrators to better understand what, if any, environmental education was taking place within and outside the classroom. Similar to the tools for looking at the field, we can now offer tools to help meet the needs of teachers, students, and administrators. Funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and Pisces Foundation, this SEEA-led project included a comprehensive study of the environmental education already happening on the ground in both nonformal and K-12 settings, enabling the states involved to identify gaps and barriers to access that prevent successful implementation in some areas. We wanted to complete an analysis that would give environmental education providers resources and tools to more effectively meet the needs of their communities. We designed it to help us to ensure that we are focusing our limited time and resources in the areas where we will have the biggest impact. Through it, we wanted educators to find the tools they need to connect with providers in their area to increase opportunities for students to engage in environmental education from early childhood to adulthood. And we wanted educators and providers to be able to target their efforts in the areas with the highest need, whether that need is demographic, geographic, or content based. Project Outcomes As a result of the project, any interested party can access the full stakeholder report and a robust online hub that includes interactive maps and toolbars, tutorials, state-specific findings, and more. In North Carolina, Environmental Educators of North Carolina (EENC) along with the N.C. Office of Environmental Education and Public Affairs and the North Carolina Association of Environmental Education Centers (NCAEEC) collected responses from 136 EE programs and 105 schools, which were compiled with programs across our region for the full analysis. The final report provides recommendations and next steps for increasing environmental literacy efforts in the southeast based on an inventory of model programs and initiatives happening nationwide. This analysis and tailored state recommendations included in the report aim to equip organizations conducting environmental and conservation-related work in the southeast with the materials they need to address gaps, allocate resources more effectively, and, ultimately, meet the goal of increasing environmental literacy levels and stewardship behaviors. Key Findings Environmental education in the southeast faces many challenges brought to light through our landscape analysis, which collected data from almost 650 programs. In North Carolina, w e found that senior staff leadership and audiences served by environmental education providers do not reflect the overall demographics of the region. The average entry-level salary for environmental educators is 15-25% lower than comparable fields. There are gaps in services found across the region in rural areas, areas with the highest social vulnerability index, and areas with the lowest income. In formal school settings, 10% of surveyed educators indicated that they take students outdoors daily, and 40% do so periodically. 32% incorporate outdoor learning into instruction, and 61% are interested in doing so, but need more support. The primary limiting factors for schools' ability to participate in field trips were transportation costs, time, availability of transportation, and site fees. And yet, while challenges exist, many strengths of environmental education programs in the region were also made clear. More than two million youth in the southeast are served annually. Each year, EE takes place in 16,355 schools. And throughout the southeast, 79,857 volunteers assist with EE programs. View the EE Providers Results Report View the K-12 Education Results Report K-12 Schools Results Dashboard Environmental Education Providers Results Dashboard Climate, Education, and Equity Map You can use the map below in numerous ways. Find EE programs and providers near you. Compare how the demographics of people served by EE in a particular North Carolina city compare to the overall demographics of the city. Discover whether certain areas of the state are less likely to have environmental education opportunities and how that might compare to their exposure to pollutants or their household income. Filter and export data that's meani ngful to you. This tool can be instrumental in helping EE providers determine where there are gaps and barriers to access. For an in-depth tutorial on how to use the many features of this map, click here to watch the video on YouTube. If you're having trouble using the map on this page, click here to access it in a larger format. SEEA Landscape Analysis Updates from the Blog Urgent Action Alert: Advocate for Federal Appropriations Supporting Environmental Education Calling all educators and advocates! It's time to reach out to your Senators and Representatives to ask for support for robust funding... EENC shares results from regional landscape analysis of K-12 schools, teachers, administrators PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Release EENC Shares Results from Regional Landscape Analysis of K-12 Schools, Teachers, Administrators... Participate in Regional Landscape Analysis for Environmental Education EENC is encouraging school and district administrators and formal educators who work in the PreK-12 setting, as well as environmental... What we learned at the funders’ briefing on environmental education in the southeast In the United States, the southeast receives only 8% of the $116 million in philanthropic investments for environmental literacy, outdoor... EENC Launches Comprehensive Landscape Analysis of Environmental Education in PreK-12 Schools Across EENC, in partnership with the Southeastern Environmental Education Alliance, announces the launch of Phase 2 of its landscape analysis of... See what SEEA’s Landscape Analysis of Environmental Education Can Help You Do What does environmental education (EE) look like on the ground? How do we work together to strengthen EE in the southeast? What would a... Launching a Regional Landscape Analysis The Environmental Educators of North Carolina (EENC) along with the N.C. Office of Environmental Education and Public Affairs and the...

The mission, vision, and values that guide our work. About EENC Welcome to the online home of the Environmental Educators of North Carolina! Our organization grew from the desire of environmental educators across North Carolina to meet and share their experiences, aspirations, and tools. Since its inception in 1990, EENC has grown into something much greater. Our organization is a 501(c)3 non-profit, governed by bylaws that are voted on by our membership, and managed by an all-volunteer board of directors that is elected annually by the members. We represent a network of outstanding environmental educators, individuals, and organizations who work together to strengthen environmental education in our state. Our Mission EENC’s mission is to build connections, provide professional development, and promote excellence for North Carolina's community of environmental educators. We do this by promoting and facilitating professional development, fostering networking opportunities, and demonstrating high quality environmental education programs and materials. EENC strives to be a leader in the field of environmental education within North Carolina, the southeast, and the nation. Our Vision EENC envisions a future in which: Individuals across all NC communities are empowered by their knowledge, skills, convictions, and abilities to inspire a just and sustainable world. Environmental education's substantial societal value is recognized and invested in widely by policymakers, funders, education institutions, and the general public through our advocacy work. EENC is a national model, creating a stronger sense of belonging for educators from all walks of life where varied skills and experiences are celebrated. Our Values We’re Stronger Together Environmental Education is a community for everyone. Regardless of identity, environmental education is for you. We unite our industry through advocacy, access, equity, and sustainability. Nature Connection is Essential We believe that humans are rooted in their environment. Connection to nature is an essential human right that provides a sense of belonging, place, identity, and community. Learning Lasts a Lifetime We nurture a growth mindset and cultivate curiosity as teachers and learners. We invest in evaluation, growth, and responsive change to meet the needs of our expanding community. Impact Drives Us We may not have the answers, but together, we can find solutions. We center research and evaluation to guide data-based advancements and accountability in pursuit of excellence. We seek meaningful partnerships to foster success for our professions, our students, and the natural world. EENC is committed to building authentic and mutual connections. EENC continually seeks new opportunities to work with people and organizations that intentionally represent and are champions for systemic justice, equity, diversity and inclusion. Just like nature’s ecosystems, each individual contribution may not be visible but together they uphold valuable knowledge and strength in our communities. We believe: Environmental literacy and mutual respect are inherently linked with environmental and social justice. Environmental education and resources should be accessible to all communities. Biodiversity is critical to the success of natural spaces, and the diversity of humanity is what makes us stronger. We are never done learning and growing as an organization and as individuals. Our Affiliations Our Partners Looking for information about Environmental Education Certification in North Carolina ? That program is administered by our partners at the North Carolina Office of Environmental Education and Public Affairs. Shared Leadership EENC has adopted a model grounded in transparent, shared decision-making power among board members and staff members leading different spheres of the work. Our leadership is a collective effort, promoting a resilient and adaptive organizational structure. We use a unique decision-making model to guide our shared work. Important decisions may be made among staff, between staff and board members or committees, or at the board level. All staff members report to one another regularly on progress and challenges. Staff serve as liaisons to board committees and routinely communicate with board leaders to plan and implement projects. Team members must be able to self-motivate and take ownership of their individual tasks while contributing effectively to shared goals and initiatives. Ongoing, transparent, frequent communication among team members is integral to this model. Read our full Shared Leadership Statement: Strategic Plan Every three years, the Board of Directors defines our organizational priorities through a strategic plan to help guide our work. EENC's four main focus areas for 2025 - 2027 are: Advancing EE - Strengthen environmental education through equitable access, culturally responsive professional development, and advocacy that reflects diverse community needs. Developing Community - Build a supportive, knowledge-rich community that is inclusive, equitable, and responsive to diverse needs and perspectives. Fostering Partnerships - Develop equitable partnerships that enhance our reach, resources, and impact, ensuring shared power dynamics and a focus on diversity and inclusion Building Internal Capacity - Strengthen the internal structure to ensure sustainability, growth, and a positive, inclusive, and equitable work environment. You can read our full strategic plan here. Annual Reports The EENC President generates an annual report each year that describes the organization's activities and growth during their tenure. These reports are available to the membership. Click on a date below to view the report for that year: 2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 Learn more about our operations and see how we've put previous support into action by reviewing our most recent 990. Discover our History Beginnings In late 1987, Triangle area environmental and teaching professionals met often and regularly at various venues to engage in discussions around the environmental education movement in our state. Members of the focus group included UNC and NCSU professors, school teachers of diverse disciplines, museum curators and interpreters, County and State Parks rangers and naturalists, federal, state and county government agency officials, environmental researchers, electric utility professionals, and environmental policymakers. Meetings were held "after school" and rooms were sometimes packed with professionals determined to spin a common thread in their efforts to increase environmental awareness and knowledge among the people of North Carolina. In time, interest grew beyond the Triangle, resulting in the creation of a state-wide, membership-driven, 501(c)3 education non-profit organization called Environmental Educators of North Carolina (EENC). The first board meeting was held at Museum of Life and Science in Durham in October 1990. It was then, and continues to be, the premier environmental education professional organization in our state which connects diverse professionals and organizations to each other through directories, news, regional events, an annual state conference and a coveted awards program.

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! 2025 EENC Conference #EENC2025: Hope Through Strength from Mountains to Sea Conference Registration Is CLOSED EENC's 2025 conference will be at Mission Health/AB Tech Conference Center in Asheville on September 19 and 20, with a pre-conference workshop and field trips taking place on the 18th. Registration is now CLOSED! 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 : Asheville area lodging accommodations for the conference. Schedule: The 2025 schedule is available . You don't want to miss these amazing sessions! Conference Apparel : Check out the amazing array of t-shirts, tank tops, and sweatshirts designed exclusively for the 2025 conference. Scholarships : The 2025 scholarship application is now closed. Online Auction : The 2025 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! Click Here to Explore the Online Auction - Closes on October 14th! Sponsor Packet Schedule Meet the 2025 Keynote Panel Dr. Caleb Hickman Sky Sampson Juanita Wilson No events at the moment 2025 Conference Sponsors Champion Guardian Advocate Supporter Interested in sponsoring the EENC conference? Explore our Sponsor Packet . Theme Hope through Strength from Mountains to Sea North Carolina's vast geography, from mountains to coast, highlights the importance of environmental education in uniting communities statewide. The state faces challenges like severe weather impacts, pollution, biodiversity loss, and deforestation, among others, all of which impact daily life across coastal, urban, and rural areas. By fostering education and building connections, we can help strengthen our EE community to inspire action towards a better future. Strands Strength in Connected Communities: This strand focuses on strengthening statewide collaboration by connecting educators, organizations, and communities. Sessions will explore strategies for building partnerships, fostering individual connections, and sharing successful models of environmental learning and action. Inspiring Hope and Action Through Environmental Learning: Confronting critical issues like severe weather impacts, pollution, biodiversity loss, deforestation, and lack of educational opportunities that empower communities to adapt and thrive. Strength in Organizational Health: These presentations highlight how strengthening operations, growth, structure, communications, and workflows are key to creating a healthier and more productive organization. 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. About The Location: Centrally located in Asheville, minutes from Downtown, the River Arts District, and Biltmore Village, AB Technical Community College attracts local residents, as well as people from across the country who are drawn to Asheville's mountains and thriving community. 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 2024 2023 2022 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

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! 2023 Conference Sponsors Duke Nicholas School of the Environment Keynote Speaker: Mallory McDuff Mallory McDuff has seen the importance of incorporating local communities in conservation through the eyes of a small-town journalist, a Peace Corps volunteer, and an environmental educator with the World Wildlife Fund. McDuff is currently a Professor of Outdoor Leadership, and Environmental Studies Director of Environmental Education at Warren Wilson College. At Warren Wilson, McDuff collaborates with diverse community partners to learn together. As a well known author, McDuff shares her most recent book, Love Your Mother, bringing awareness to the conversations around the climate crisis. McDuff's words will light EENC's Community to engage in collective action toward a more sustainable future. Theme and Focus Areas The 2023 conference theme is Unplug and rEEconnect. During the conference, we will delve deeper into what EE looks like in our state, the exciting and surprising places where EE is happening, and take time get outside and reconnect with the natural world. rEEconnect to Place: EE can be facilitated and experienced anywhere! These presentations will focus on how to apply EE in various communities and situations. These presentations will help unlock EE's audience by sharing ways to make EE more inclusive by addressing community and situational barriers. rEEconnect to Our Why (Work): EE is the thread that connects us all! These presentations will focus not on the 'what' or 'how' we implement EE, but the 'why.' The presentations will demonstrate the importance of collaboration with each other and other organizations toward a common purpose. The presentations will 'zoom out' to celebrate the bigger picture of EE's impact. rEEconnect to Social Change: The natural world is always changing, and EE is too! These presentations will focus on big new ideas, hot topics, and ways of doing that address social change. Theory to Practice: These presentations will focus on celebrating research you and/or your organization is doing in the field and the practical application of the research. Hands On and Minds On: These presentations can be field skills, activity demonstrations, walking workshops, etc. that demonstrate the 'what' we do in EE, or the 'how' we do it! These presentations are intended to be interactive. Schedule and Workshops