Kirkwood Community College, University of Iowa, and Ellsworth Community College Join as First Members
Iowa Conservation Education Coalition (ICEC) is excited to announce a brand-new Student Chapter
Organization Membership designed specifically for colleges and universities preparing the next generation of educators and informal learning professionals.
With an annual membership of just $100 per institution, the new Student Chapter option opens the door for both faculty advisors and currently enrolled students to engage directly with Iowa’s conservation and outdoor education community.
“We’re thrilled to share that the first three institutions to join under this new tier are Kirkwood Community
College, the University of Iowa, and Ellsworth Community College. This new membership tier is about building bridges between today’s students and tomorrow’s conservation leaders,” said Jared McGovern, ICEC Executive Committee Chair. “We want students not just learning about science and education, but actively doing the work alongside professionals who live it every day.”
The Student Chapter Membership is open to community colleges and four-year universities offering degree programs that prepare students for careers in conservation, environmental and science education, elementary education, early childhood education, informal education and beyond.
Each participating institution will designate a faculty advisor to coordinate with ICEC. Student members will receive regular ICEC email communications, the opportunity to participate in the annual ICEC Winter
Workshop, access to professional networking opportunities and hands-on outdoor learning experiences.
“Kirkwood is very proud to be a part of this group to help our next generation of formal teachers and land
stewards from a variety of organizations learn how to work hand in hand, paving a unique path for the youth to enjoy,” says Clarah Buhman, Lab Technician and Adjunct Faculty with Kirkwood Parks and Natural Resources.
“With this partnership, being able to hear how workplace professionals got to where they are can inspire our students to continue to grow in their niches and hobbies to share their passion with others.”
“The College of Education, at the University of Iowa, is excited to create a student chapter,” says Ted Neal, PhD, Clinical Professor of Science Education. “Our extensive commitment to School of the Wild,
outdoor/informal education, and our amazing students will benefit from our collaboration in ICEC.”
By connecting students directly with practicing professionals in both formal and informal education settings, ICEC aims to strengthen Iowa’s pipeline of conservation-minded educators and leaders.
“This is about mentorship, networking, and creating a community of practice,” added McGovern. “We’re
investing in students today so they’re prepared to inspire the next generation tomorrow.”
Institutions interested in forming an ICEC Student Chapter are encouraged to reach out and join this growing statewide network of conservation education professionals.
Support for these three inaugural student chapters is made possible by a recent ee360+ Year 5 Bridge
Building grant awarded to ICEC by the North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE).
For more information, visit iowaee.org or contact exec@iowaee.org
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About the Iowa Conservation Education Coalition (ICEC)
The Iowa Conservation Education Coalition is a statewide network of professionals dedicated to advancing conservation and environmental education across Iowa through collaboration, professional development, and shared learning experiences. More information is available at iowaee.org.
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