FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact information: Amy Landon 502-797-1608; Erin Dullaghan Jones 502-774-0767
August 8, 2023
Bernheim’s Dan Pascucci wins the Excellence in Environmental Education Award
The Youth and Family Program Manager received this award from
the Kentucky Association for Environmental Education.
Clermont, KY August 8, 2023 – Bernheim is proud to share that Youth and Family Program Manager, Dan Pascucci, was chosen to receive the 2023 Excellence in Environmental Education (EE) award from the Kentucky Association in Environmental Education (KAEE).
Pascucci has been leading field trips, homeschool hikes, and a myriad of other educational programming at Bernheim since 2016. Through creative and unique interactive programs, Dan has been a key part of helping Bernheim fulfill its mission of connecting people with nature.
Before moving to Kentucky, Dan was the Education Director for the Kenai Watershed Forum, an environmental non-profit in southcentral Alaska. He taught about water, watersheds, salmon, and the importance of caring for the environment. Over his career, Dan has been awarded NAI Sunny Southeast Region’s Outstanding Interpreter award, the Jerry S. Dixon Award for Excellence in Environmental Education from the Alaska Conservation Foundation, and was labeled a “King Maker” by the Kachemak Heritage Land Trust.
“I am honored to receive the Excellence in Environmental Education award, especially because a Bernheim education peer nominated me,” stated Pascucci. “I’m so fortunate to work at an organization that strives to foster the next generation of environmental stewards.”
The Kentucky Association for Environmental Education’s Excellence in Environmental Education Awards are presented by KAEE to recognize those best exemplifying dedication, commitment, and influence in the field of environmental education (EE).
Winners of the award are known for dedicated current and long-term service in EE, creating a work environment that incorporates EE, and outstanding action, contribution, and leadership in supporting EE. Honorees continue to be earnest in EE and significantly contribute to EE in Kentucky.
Teachers interested in booking a field trip with Dan and our other outstanding nature-based educators can schedule fall field trips beginning on August 21 at Bernheim.org.
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About Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest
Bernheim’s mission is to connect people with nature. At 16,140 acres, it is the largest privately held contiguous forest block in the eastern United States dedicated to conservation and education. Bourbon maker Isaac Wolfe Bernheim established the arboretum and forest in 1929 as a gift to the people of Kentucky. Fun, educational programs, diverse tree collections, a renowned art collection, 40 miles of hiking trails, and varied landscapes are available every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. A $15 per car donation is suggested for non-members. For more information about Bernheim, visit https://bernheim.org/.
