NHEE is recognized by the North American Association for Environmental Education for outstanding leadership, statewide impact, and commitment to advancing environmental literacy.
NEW HAMPSHIRE, October 2026 — New Hampshire Environmental Educators (NHEE) has been named the 2026 Outstanding NAAEE Affiliate Organization by the North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE), recognizing its exceptional service, leadership, and contributions to the field of environmental education.
NHEE was honored during the 2026 NAAEE Annual Conference, held in early October in Portland, Oregon. The award celebrates NHEE’s remarkable growth and impact in strengthening environmental education opportunities for educators, students, and communities across New Hampshire.
Over the past four years, NHEE has transformed from a small, dedicated network into a thriving statewide organization. Between 2022 and 2026, NHEE increased its membership by 174%, expanded professional development and networking opportunities, strengthened regional partnerships, and increased its capacity to support environmental educators throughout the state.
Among NHEE’s most significant accomplishments is its leadership in updating the New Hampshire Environmental Literacy Plan, released in March 2026. Developed through statewide collaboration, the plan provides a shared vision and actionable strategies to expand access to environmental education, empower youth and communities, strengthen educator professional development, and integrate environmental literacy into education across New Hampshire.
NHEE has also expanded its NHEE’d to Get Outside Grant Program, which helps schools and nonprofit organizations overcome financial barriers to hands-on outdoor learning. Since 2018, the program has awarded more than $117,000 in grants, supporting outdoor learning experiences for more than 15,000 participants across New Hampshire.
“This recognition is an incredible honor and a reflection of the dedication, collaboration, and passion of our board members, members, volunteers, and partners across New Hampshire,” said Leigh Ann Reynolds, NHEE Administrator. “We are proud of how far NHEE has come and excited to continue building a strong, connected community that ensures environmental education is accessible to learners of all ages and backgrounds.”
NHEE’s impact extends beyond its programs and initiatives. By connecting classroom teachers, nonformal educators, conservation organizations, schools, and community partners, NHEE has become a leading voice for environmental literacy and place-based learning throughout the state.
As the Education Director of Squam Lakes Natural Science Center shared in support of NHEE’s nomination:
“I have seen the organization develop from a small but dedicated network into a vibrant statewide leader that connects educators, organizations, agencies, and communities around a shared commitment to environmental literacy.”
“This year, we are proud to highlight these extraordinary individuals and organizations whose vision, leadership, and dedication are driving transformative change in communities and the field of environmental education,” said Judy Braus, executive director of NAAEE. “Their work inspires us to continue striving for a healthier and more just planet and a bright future for generations to come.”
NHEE is among eleven award recipients recognized across ten categories in the 2026 NAAEE Awards for Excellence. For more than 40 years, NAAEE has celebrated outstanding leadership, innovation, and impact in environmental education through its annual awards program.
Learn more about NHEE’s award:
Outstanding NAAEE Affiliate Organization Award
Read NAAEE’s announcement:
11 Leaders Recognized for Notable Contributions to Environmental Education
About New Hampshire Environmental Educators
New Hampshire Environmental Educators (NHEE) is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing environmental education and connecting educators, organizations, and communities across New Hampshire. Through professional development, networking, grants, advocacy, and collaborative initiatives, NHEE supports meaningful learning experiences that connect people with the natural world and inspire environmental stewardship.
Learn more at www.nhee.org.
About NAAEE
For more than five decades, the North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE) has served as the professional association, champion, and backbone organization for the field of environmental education (EE), working with EE professionals across the United States, Canada, Mexico, and globally to advance environmental literacy and civic engagement to create a more just and sustainable future.
Learn more at www.naaee.org.
