Photo courtesy of Highlands Center for Natural History
Highlands Center for Natural History Executive Director Dave Irvine has retired after 14 years in the role. During his tenure, the center has grown tremendously and has established itself as a leading nonprofit nature education organization in the region.
“It has been exciting to see this community embrace both the mission and programs offered by the Highlands Center,” Irvine said. “We have had great support from our local school districts, area foundations, and individual donors and members that have made all this growth possible.”
He added, “We have strived to introduce all ages to wonders of the natural world, which we believe will encourage them to become wise stewards of this land that we all cherish.”
The Board of Directors has named Associate Director Sarah Vincent as the new executive director. Her professional experience includes leadership roles in outdoor and science education, including locally with the Aspen Creek Outdoor School at Chapel Rock and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to build upon the foundation laid by those who have come before me and in service of those who will come after me,” Vincent said. “I intend to work with this community and the Board of Directors to facilitate meaningful experiences for people in nature, about nature, and most importantly, with nature.
“The Highlands Center is truly a deeply rooted, high-impact organization with a lively and responsive future.”
Irvine succeeded Founding Director Nichole Trushell. The organization has doubled its staff and now engages more than 10,000 youth annually in outdoor education programs. Participation in adult programs has grown, and the James Family Discovery Gardens were added in 2017.
The center added the James Family Discovery Gardens to provide an accessible connection to nature and introduce visitors to the ecological communities of the Central Highlands. Phase II of the project included the addition of a second restroom facility and significant improvement to the parking area.
Highlands Center for Natural History now attracts more than 50,000 visitors annually to the Walker Road Campus for educational programs, special events or to hike the 80-acre site.
