The ATC Welcomes New Members to NextGen Council

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) announced six new members as a part of its Next Generation Advisory Council. The Council is a group of sixteen diverse leaders aged 18-30 selected to support the ATC in engaging a younger and more inclusive audience in fulfillment of ATC’s mission to protect, manage, and advocate for the Appalachian National Scenic Trail (A.T.).

NextGen Council members serve two-year terms and advocate for stewardship; forge new partnerships with youth and multicultural organizations; advise on strategic questions that relate to bridging young and inclusive audiences; connect the ATC community to a broader network of people, ideas, and resources; and support projects, events, and practices that further equity for the organization.

These important volunteer positions advance the next generation of Appalachian Trail advocates, supporters, and conservationists, and create opportunities for collaboration and greater impact. Click below to meet the new members, who kick-off their Council terms this month as a part of their annual meeting.

“The Appalachian Trail Conservancy is proud to support this Council and welcome its new members in the inspiring work they will accomplish,” said Sandra Marra, ATC’s President and CEO. “Programs like these amplify the importance of connecting people and the outdoors so everyone has equal opportunity for meaningful experiences in nature and along the Appalachian Trail.”

NextGen Council members have gone onto become ATC staff members, board members for other national trail organizations, and leaders in environmental organizations and agencies.

“My time on NextGen was invaluable for the way I view access to the outdoors, and how we can achieve a more equitable Appalachian Trail,” said Dakota Jackson, recent NextGen Council leader and ATC Associate Director of Visitor Services. “Learning and working with ATC staff, board members, and other NextGen members to make the outdoors better for everyone was an incredibly rewarding experience. NextGen taught me key leadership and professional skills that are vital to my career. I am so excited to welcome new members to the Council and to see what they will achieve in the coming years.”

“Serving on NextGen has been one of the formative experiences in my career and civic life,” Caitlin Miller stated as newest ATC staff member and recent NextGen leader. “I’m forever grateful for what my fellow members and the staff liaisons have taught me and to have had the opportunity to work with and learn from this incredible group of changemakers. I’ve learned ways to advance justice, equity, and inclusion in my personal and professional circles; grown in my facilitation and discussion skills; and, most importantly, to speak up and use my voice.”

For more information about the NextGen Advisory Council and its members, click here.