Anne has dedicated her life to serving environmental education in New Jersey, both in professional and volunteer capacities. Through out her professional career and in her personal time, volunteering for organizations like New Jersey Audubon and the Wetlands Institute, she has shared her knowledge, experience, and tenacity.
Under her guidance, as director of the Hackensack Meadowlands Environmental Center, it became one of the preeminent locations in New Jersey for students to experience environmental education.
As a founding member of ANJEE, Anne helped define the alliance and served as a member of the Advisory Board.
Anne was appointed by Governor Kean to the Governor's Commission on Environmental Education, and helped design the New Jersey Environmental Education's Plan of Action, which won worldwide acclaim.
Perhaps, one of Anne's greatest legacies is how she has inspired others. Seen as one of the EE "giants" in New Jersey, she has taught and mentored countless students and teachers. Colleagues comment, "She has my total respect as a shaker and mover." "She recognized, honored, and encouraged each of our individual talents." "People under her direction do great things and achieve personal growth to continue without her."
Although "officially" retired, Anne continues to share her passionate love of nature with others. She has undoubtedly made a lasting, positive impact on environmental education!
President's Award for Special Recognition
John J. Kirk, Ph.D.
We, as ANJEE members, cannot name the leaders and legends in conservation and environmental education without recognizing the work of Dr. John J. Kirk.
Dr. Kirk was the Executive Director of the New Jersey School of Conservation from 1963 to 2001. Through his efforts numerous people of all ages were inspired by and attracted to, rewarding careers in various environmental professions.
Dr. Kirk is one of the founding members of ANJEE, and one of the original members of the New Jersey Commission on Environmental Education.
In 1978 Dr. Kirk was invited by the United Nations' Environmental Programme (UNEP) to help introduce the historic Belgrade Charter, which introduced the foundation for a "young" field of environmental education, to countries around the world.
Dr. Kirk helped write New Jersey’s master plan for environmental education in the early 1990s and was instrumental through his work with UNEP, to circulate copies of the plan worldwide.
In 1977 Dr. Kirk provided remarks at the 6th conference of the North American Association of Environmental Education. He said: "It is interesting to note that environmental education may prove to be the catalyst that not only saves the human race from extinction, but also may serve to unite all the people of the world in a common effort to find solutions to the perplexing and difficult problems that threaten life on the planet."
Many of us also know Dr. Kirk for another relevant and timeless quote - that "it doesn't matter if little Johnny or Mary can read or write if they cannot breathe."
ANJEE is proud to present him with the President’s Award for Special Recognition. On behalf of all of us who love the environment and educating others about it, we’d like to thank Dr. Kirk for his leadership, vision, commitment and passion.
Environmental Educator-Nonformal Sector
Works with Schools: Christine R. Raabe
Currently the Education Consultant and Outreach Specialist with the Ocean County Soil Conservation District, Christine has dedicated her career to developing, promoting and enhancing environmental education in New Jersey.
Whether creating resources, procuring grants, facilitating workshops, organizing roundtables, coordinating conservation projects, or serving as a consultant, she has been instrumental in the success of many, many programs.
Not one to stand in the spotlight, Christine's accomplishments speak to her excellence in environmental education.
Environmental Educator-Nonformal Sector
Works with the Public at Large: Barbara Fiedler
A constant source of inspiration toward environmental stewardship, Galloway Township is fortunate to have Barbara as their Recycling Coordinator in the Community Education Department.
Her influence in the field of environmental education extends far beyond the boundaries of her job as she lends her leadership, enthusiasm, and expertise to township and regional projects.
"Barbara motivates people toward environmentally responsible behavior through her programs and projects, but more importantly, through her own actions."
Environmental Educator-Formal Sector
Individual: Amy Armstrong
As the Greenhouse teacher at Watchung School in Montclair, Amy has developed activities to teach about biomes, pond life, soil erosion, life cycles, and more.
Her influence can be seen in and out of the school. Whether it's the Hall of Science with seasonal murals and informational bulletin boards, or the courtyard filled with various garden beds, bird watching stations, and a pond, students and parents are engaged in hands-on experiences.
"Amy threads environmental education throughout all disciplines. It is viewed not only as a science subject, but something valuable and wonderful."
Environmental Educator-Formal Sector-Partnership
Auten Road Intermediate School
and Duke Farms
When Ann Harris recognized a unique opportunity for the expansion of environmental studies at her school, it was the beginning of a wonderful partnership with Duke Farms.
Gaining the support of principal, Harold Blackstone, and science supervisor, Kim Feltre, Ann wrote curriculum and presented the proposal to the folks at Duke Farms: Rich Feldman, Chris Eftoski, Spence Billings, Gene Huntington, Chris Aquila, and Tom Almendinger. The resulting collaboration has been an enriching experience for everyone involved!
Awards were presented during the Alliance's Annual Awards Banquet
during the Annual New Jersey Environmental Education Conference.
Friday, February 2, 2007 at the Palmer Inn
Route 1 South, between Princeton and Lawrenceville, NJ.
|
Patricia F. Kane Lifetime Achievement Award