WASHINGTON, Dec. 15, 2025 — The National Conservation Foundation (NCF) has announced the members of the 2026 cohort of the Next Generation Leadership Institute (NGLI), a yearlong program designed to equip conservation district leaders with the skills and vision to meet the future needs of natural resource management.
Launched in 2019, NGLI provides participants with advanced training in advocacy, public policy, communication, leadership, media engagement, conflict management, and team building. The program strengthens the capacity of conservation district officials to navigate complex challenges and lead collaborative, locally led conservation efforts across the nation.
2026 NGLI Cohort Members
- Travis Entenman, SD; NACD Northern Plains Region – Minnehaha Conservation District
- Steven Gilje, ND; NACD Northern Plains Region – Rolette County Soil Conservation District
- Sharon Luna, NM; NACD Southwest Region – Sierra Soil & Water Conservation District
- Andy Payne, GA; NACD Southeast Region – Lower Chattahoochee River Conservation District
- Blaise Pezold, LA; NACD South Central Region – Crescent Soil & Water Conservation District
- Abby Shuler, WY; NACD Southwest Region – Powell Clarks Fork Conservation District
- Rosalind Streeter, KY; NACD Southeast Region – Oldham County Conservation District
- Arnold Weatherman, NC; NACD Southeast Region – Davie Soil & Water Conservation District
Brent Van Dyke, chair of the National Conservation Foundation, said he is enthusiastic about the incoming cohort.
“The Next Generation Leadership Institute continues to be one of the most impactful investments we can make in the future of conservation,” Van Dyke said. “Each year, we see participants grow into leaders who not only strengthen their local districts but also contribute to national conversations about resource stewardship. The 2026 cohort represents a diverse group of dedicated individuals, and we are excited to see the energy, innovation and leadership they will bring to the program and to conservation efforts across the country.”
About NGLI – The Next Generation Leadership Institute is a yearlong professional development program for elected or appointed conservation district officials. Through immersive sessions and national networking opportunities, participants gain the tools to lead effectively, communicate across diverse audiences and implement impactful conservation projects. The program is valued at more than $10,000 per participant, with tuition and sponsor support making the opportunity accessible to leaders nationwide.
About the National Conservation Foundation
The National Conservation Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing conservation through education, leadership development and outreach.