By Laura Ahmed, Marketing & Communications Director
January 12, 2025
![Colleen Foehrenbacher (left) receives the Outstanding New Leader Award from Jen Levy, Executive Director of the Association of Nature Center Administrators.](https://eaglebluffmn.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Eagle-Bluff-Executive-Director-Colleen-Foehrenbacher-Receives-National-Recognition-for-Leadership-in-Outdoor-Education-1024x683.png)
NORTH EAST, MD — Colleen Foehrenbacher, Executive Director of Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center, has been honored with national recognition by the Association of Nature Center Administrators (ANCA) as the recipient of the Outstanding New Leader Award at the 2025 Outdoor School Summit on January 12, 2025. Foehrenbacher received this prestigious award in front of an audience of over 70 industry leaders, recognizing her exceptional leadership and significant contributions to the field of outdoor education. ANCA’s membership includes more than 350 organizations across North America and beyond, making this award highly competitive and a testament to Foehrenbacher’s remarkable accomplishments.
The Outstanding New Leader Award is presented to emerging leaders who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment within the early years of their tenure. Foehrenbacher’s innovative vision and dedication to expanding access to transformative outdoor education have made her an instrumental force in shaping Eagle Bluff and the broader environmental education community.
“It’s an absolute honor to receive this award,” Foehrenbacher said in her acceptance speech. “The passion, knowledge, and drive of everyone in this industry continually inspires me to be better, and I’m grateful to be part of a community that pushes me to grow.”
Foehrenbacher addresses an audience of more than 70 industry leaders during her acceptance speech for the Outstanding New Leader Award at the 2025 Outdoor School Summit.
Foehrenbacher’s leadership philosophy reflects her commitment to integrity, collaboration, and growth. “Leadership, to me, is about doing what’s right even when no one is looking, taking chances, and always surrounding yourself with people who are smarter than you. It’s about making mistakes and learning from them, and always striving for the truth,” she shared.
Under Foehrenbacher’s guidance since 2020, Eagle Bluff has experienced significant growth and transformation. Her leadership has expanded the organization’s educational programming and broadened its impact, reaching more students and families, especially in underserved communities. With a focus on sustainability and inclusivity, Eagle Bluff is poised for continued success in providing hands-on, outdoor learning experiences that connect individuals to nature.
“Colleen’s leadership has been nothing short of transformative for Eagle Bluff,” said Jenna Moon, Education Director at Eagle Bluff. “Much like a skilled mechanic restoring a classic car, she has made our organization more efficient, sustainable, and ready for the future.”
“Imagine succeeding the founder of an organization and stepping into leadership during a global pandemic. It is a monumental task,” said Peter Smerud, Executive Director of Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center. “Colleen has handled these challenges with exceptional resilience, elevating the work at Eagle Bluff and shaping the future of the entire outdoor education sector.”
Peter Smerud (left), Executive Director of Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center, joins Colleen Foehrenbacher and Drew Dumsch (right), President & CEO of the Ecology School.
Under Foehrenbacher’s leadership, Eagle Bluff is advancing its mission while laying the groundwork for future generations to connect with nature. Her continued influence will inspire growth and transformation in outdoor education.
About ANCA (Association of Nature Center Administrators)
The Association of Nature Center Administrators (ANCA) is the leading professional organization supporting leadership and management in the nature and environmental learning center field. The ANCA serves over 700 members, including directors, senior administrators, and board members of nature centers. Through networking, mentorship, and professional development, ANCA empowers leaders to strengthen their organizations and advance environmental education. To learn more about ANCA visit www.natctr.org.
About Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center
Since 1978, Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center has been dedicated to providing enriching outdoor education and adventure experiences for people of all ages. Located in the picturesque Bluff Country of southeastern Minnesota, Eagle Bluff offers immersive, hands-on programs that foster a deeper connection to nature and equip participants with valuable skills. From K-12 Outdoor School to summer camps and family adventures, Eagle Bluff inspires a lasting appreciation for the environment while empowering individuals to care for the earth and each other.
Media Contact:
Laura M. Ahmed
Director of Marketing and Communications
Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center
Cell: (507) 884-9577
Email: lauraa@eaglebluffmn.org