Eight New Leaders. One Shared Mission.

Eight new members recently began their fourteen-month journey as members of NCF’s Next Generation Leadership Institute. This journey began in San Antonio, Texas, during the National Association of Conservation Districts’ Annual Meeting. These eight new members will follow in the footsteps of past cohort members to become the next conservation advocates.

Formed in 2019, NGLI has served to educate, train, and prepare its members for 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.

“The Next Generation Leadership Institute continues to be one of the most impactful investments we can make in the future of conservation,” said Brent Van Dyke, Chair of the NCF Board of Trustees. “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.” 

The 2026 NGLI Cohort Members are:

• Travis Entenman, SD; NACD Northern Plains Region – Minnehaha Conservation District
• Steve 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

The cohort began its year by getting to know each other, making connections, and participating in leadership activities. Each member had the opportunity to share their “why” behind joining the year-long program.