NYSOEA Awards

There are a variety of awards presented by NYSOEA to acknowledge the achievements and contributions to New York State Outdoor Education. Full descriptions can be found below. To see a list of past winners, visit the Past Winners page.
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​If you wish to nominate someone in order to recognize their contribution to Outdoor and Environmental Education, please fill out the online Awards Nomination Form. Questions? Contact us awardscommittee@nysoea.org.

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Harlan "Gold" Metcalf Award

The highest honor presented to a member of the Association. Candidates must have made valuable professional contributions in New York State, demonstrated outstanding leadership, and contributed to and made significant achievements in the field of outdoor education. Recipients must have 10 years of professional experience and be a current NYSOEA member.

Leadership Award

Presented to candidates who are responsible for the growth of professionals in the field, who created innovative programs, and/or provided the management support that expanded outdoor education at the local, state, or national level. Recipient does not have to be a member of the Association.

Service Award

Presented for outstanding support of Association goals by contribution of personal time and energy. Recipient must be a member for three years.

Outdoor Educator Award

This honor recognizes the outstanding classroom teacher, environmental educator, or interpreter in the Association who has used the outdoors to enrich curriculum and/or interpret the natural world in a way that has expanded the environmental appreciation of children or adults. Candidates must be active in the field for five years and a NYSOEA member for two years.

Art & Literary Award

Given for outstanding artistic or literary ability demonstrated by publication, scholarly pursuits, or other creative art achievements related to outdoor education. Nomination does not require Association membership.

Environmental Impact Award

Awarded to an individual or organization involved in research, conservation, and political action that influenced, protected, and successfully dealt with problems associated with the environment. NYSOEA membership is not required.

Volunteer Award

Awarded to an exemplary volunteer whose dedication and commitment of personal time and energy has significantly contributed to the goals of outdoor/environmental education in a school, park, museum, nature center, or residential setting.  Nomination does not require Association membership.

Julian Smith Student Award

Presented to a deserving undergraduate or graduate student who has shown a commitment to outdoor education through study, leadership, volunteer work, and seasonal employment. The student must be enrolled full time (12 hours) and have a grade point average of 2.5 in a program of study related to outdoor education. Applicant must submit a statement of interest and highlight experiences and/or contributions to the field. Two letters of recommendation must be secured from professors or one each from a NYSOEA member and a professor familiar with the student's background.

Presidential Award

Given at the discretion of NYSOEA President.

Appreciation Award

Presented to a NYSOEA member who has contributed to the growth and/or betterment of the organization
​by the President of NYSOEA.