Outdoor Leaders Initiative
Developing Next Generation Leadership
The Outdoor Leaders Initiative is built on the premise that the future health and vitality of our great outdoors depends on the next generation of leadership both in business and nonprofits, to champion the wild and special places that we call home. This program includes a mentor/mentee leadership program, individualized coaching, education on conservation and environmental issues of importance to the outdoor industry and nonprofit community, and opportunities to benefit from The Nonprofit Institute’s other nonprofit conferences and trainings.Program Includes
- Outdoor leadership mentoring program that pairs emerging leaders with seasoned professionals from the outdoor industry and nonprofit community
- A seminar series featuring outdoor leaders sharing their insights and perspectives on the past, present and future of the conservation movement and outdoor advocacy
- Opportunities for individualized coaching, board training, and organizational capacity development

OLI Advisors
- CO-CHAIR: Steve Barker, Co-Founder, Eagle Creek & Escondido Creek Conservancy
- Everett Au, Program Specialist, The San Diego Foundation
- Nicola Hedge, Former Director of Environmental Initiatives, The San Diego Foundation
- Ben McCue, Executive Director, Outdoor Outreach
- Zach Plopper, Director of Conservation, WILDCOAST
- Marisa Aurora Quiroz, Vice President of Programs, International Community Foundation
- Jeff Sermak, Former National Sales Manager, Eagle Creek
- Myrian Solis Coronel, Director of Community Engagement, Parks California
- Stasia Walker, Director of Future Leadership Academy, Outdoor Industry Association