Environmental Nature Center named 2026 Environmental Education Organization of the Year
The Environmental Nature Center (ENC) has been named the 2026 Environmental Education Organization of the Year by the Association for Environmental & Outdoor Education (AEOE), a statewide professional organization dedicated to advancing environmental literacy and outdoor learning across California.
Presented in partnership with Ten Strands and the California Environmental Literacy Initiative (CAELI), this annual award recognizes organizations that demonstrate innovation, follow research-based best practices and expand equitable access to environmental education.
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Photos courtesy of ENC
ENC creates a continuous pathway for a lifelong connection to nature
The ENC was selected for their comprehensive, community-based approach to environmental education, serving learners from early childhood through adulthood across their Newport Beach campus and the ENC Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary in Modjeska Canyon. Programs include nature-based preschool, K-12 field trips, youth leadership development, teacher professional development and community programming – creating a continuous pathway for a lifelong connection to nature.
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ENC was selected for their comprehensive, community-based approach to environmental education, serving learners from early childhood through adulthood
“This recognition is especially meaningful coming from a community of peers who are deeply committed to this work,” said Lori Whalen, vice president of the ENC. “At the ENC, we believe that connection to nature isn’t a single experience – it’s a relationship built over time. We are honored to be part of a statewide network working to ensure that all people have access to meaningful experiences in the outdoors.”
Each year, the ENC serves tens of thousands of participants, including thousands of Title I students who receive access to hands-on environmental education programs. The organization is also a leader in sustainable operations, having achieved TRUE Platinum Zero Waste certification, modeling the environmental responsibility it seeks to inspire.
AEOE has supported environmental education professionals across California for more than 70 years, connecting educators, advancing policy and building capacity within the field. Award recipients are selected by an awards panel and recognized at AEOE’s annual statewide conference.
“This award reflects the collective efforts of our staff, volunteers, partners and supporters,” added Whalen. “We are deeply grateful to our community for helping make this work possible.”
For more information on the ENC, visit www.encenter.org, or call 949.645.8489.
