A Reflection from the 2024 Emerging Leaders’ Summit

Photo by Rachel Lettre of participants standing in front of Kittianny Hall.

The ATC’s Emerging Leaders’ Summit (ELS) is an annual gathering that offers participants ages 18-30 trainings, workshops, and experiences with a focus on building skills and community through the lens of the Appalachian Trail. 

Last year, the Summit was held at the New Jersey School of Conservation, in Sandyston, New Jersey, August 2-4, 2024. Makenzi Reed, a participant at the 2024 Summit, shared her experiences.

1. What part of the summit was the most fun and why? 

Photo by Rachel Lettre of participants hiking on the A.T.

The hike on the Appalachian Trail was the most fun because we got to immerse ourselves into the very place we were learning about all weekend. The best part of this hike was stopping at the overlook. It was one of those moments where we all took a break to take in the view and truly appreciate the Appalachian Trail. 

2. What element(s) do you think were most helpful for your professional development and how have you incorporated what you learned?

Photo by Rachel Lettre of participants talking during one-on-one chats.

Attending the career panel and participating in the one-on-one chats [with conservation professionals] was most helpful to my professional development. As a college student, it was nice to hear the many job avenues you can take in the conservation field. There was so much advice shared throughout each event. The one piece of advice that I have tried incorporating is getting involved in or researching companies you want to work for in the future, whether that be volunteering or interning or simply researching their mission.

3. What is one thing you learned that you think everyone should know?

Photo by Rachel Lettre.

The Appalachian Trail is a network of collaboration across the miles of trail. Each person, from hikers to Ridgerunners to Trail Clubs, plays a key role in conserving the beauty of the A.T.

4. What would you tell someone considering going to the 2025 summit?

Photo by Rachel Lettre of participants in the middle of playing a game.

Do not pass up this opportunity because the Summit is truly amazing! Everyone is so welcoming, and you will make so many connections. You also don’t have to be an expert on the Appalachian Trail or even an experienced hiker because this Summit does a great job catering to all skill levels and knowledge. You will leave this Summit with a changed perspective and a drive to want to make a difference!

5. Have you connected with ATC or Trail Clubs since the summit?

Painting by Makenzi Reed of a salamander and mushroom on a forest floor, inspired by the hike during the Summit.

Since the summit, I have joined the ATC’s Next Generation Advisory Council as a Council Member. I am excited to be part of the ATC’s mission and put into practice what I learned at the Emerging Leaders’ Summit. It feels like a full circle moment and I am thrilled to see where this opportunity takes me!

Photo by Rachel Lettre of the full 2024 ELS group.

Are you interested in attending this year’s Summit (or do you know someone else who might be)? The 2025 Emerging Leaders’ Summit will be held over Indigenous People’s Day weekend (Friday, October 10 – Monday, October 13), and the application to attend will open during the summer.

Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter, Trailway News, or follow the ATC on social media to be notified of when the 2025 application is live!