As an exciting kickoff to our 25th Anniversary Year, the Natural Learning Initiative (NLI) received the prestigious Opal Mann Green Engagement and Scholarship Award. This award recognizes a team of individuals whose significant contributions and accomplishments have demonstrated excellence as engaged scholars who practice collaborative democratic strategies reflected in the Kellogg Commission Seven Part Test. The seven characteristics include responsiveness, respect for partners, academic neutrality, accessibility, integration, coordination, and resource partnerships.

The recognition rewards authentic collaboration across university and community structures, highlighting programs that are both community-valued and mutually beneficial to partners.

The Natural Learning Initiative was honored at the Outreach and Engagement Awards Ceremony held on March 27.

In his remarks, Dr. David Monks, Vice Provost for Outreach and Engagement & Interim Associate Dean and Director of NC State Extension, noted:

“NLI’s mission, ‘Creating environments for healthy human development and a healthy biosphere for generations to come,’ integrates community engagement and interdisciplinary collaboration. NLI has spent 25 years transforming communities and fostering design thinking to create healthy outdoor play and learning environments. These spaces empower children, families, and communities to thrive, motivating daily outdoor activities, pro-nature lifestyles, and stewardship for the planet. With over 500 outdoor spaces transformed, $11M raised, and $1.8M allocated to partner organizations, the Natural Learning Initiative demonstrates a steadfast commitment to sustainability and community impact.”

Established in 2010, the award recognizes and memorializes Dr. Opal Mann Green’s distinguished leadership at the county, state, and national levels within Cooperative Extension and her dedication to using democratic community processes to create inclusionary teams, community-based learning, and mutually beneficial action around local issues.