A Year of Resilience, Connection, and Forward Momentum

Dear Friends,

As 2025 comes to a close, I reflect with deep gratitude on my eight years of service on the board of the North American Association for Environmental Education. It has been a true honor to witness the growth of this community in impact, connection, and leadership. As I step into an ex-officio role in the year ahead, my confidence in NAAEE’s future has never been stronger.

Environmental education is more important now than ever. In a world shaped by uncertainty, rapid change, and urgent environmental and social challenges, NAAEE continues to serve as a steady, unifying force. This year asked much of all of us—requiring resilience, creativity, and the courage to adapt. And once again, this community rose to the moment.

Together, we delivered meaningful professional learning through webinars, our annual conferences, and dynamic peer-to-peer networking. We strengthened connection through eePRO and other shared platforms, and we continued to invest in the future of this field by uplifting emerging and intergenerational leaders through our EE 30 Under 30 program and our CEE-Change Fellows. We also advanced global collaboration through the Global Environmental Education Partnership (GEEP), supported state and national policy efforts, and continued to grow our early childhood efforts through the Natural Start Alliance and Discover the Forest. None of this would be possible without the insight, talent, and dedication you bring every day to your work and to this association.

We are especially grateful to our Affiliate Network and partners for all you do to support NAAEE and the field. And we are deeply moved by you—of your efforts, your organizations, and your commitment to ensuring that environmental education remains a powerful force for learning, health, and community resilience.

Looking ahead to 2026, NAAEE stands committed to building even greater impact. We know that the path forward only works when we move together—shoulder-to-shoulder—in partnership and shared purpose. This year has shown us that even in challenging conditions, we can continue to grow, connect, and lead.

Thank you for your trust, your partnership, and your belief in this community. It has been one of the great privileges of my professional life to serve alongside you.