“It was my first Summit, and I left feeling like I have found this whole new treasure chest of resources and connections that will be so valuable going forward.”
— 2024 Summit Participant
ANCA Annual Summit
THE ANCA ANNUAL SUMMIT is the premier professional development opportunity for leaders of nature centers, outdoor schools, and related organizations. With a focus on leadership and management practices for our unique profession, the Summit provides participants with a wealth of knowledge, strategies, and resources to help them excel in their work.
Join us for the 2025 Summit, August 25-29 at the Environmental Nature Center (ENC) in Newport Beach, California. Located just minutes from the beach, the ENC's five-acre campus will provide an engaging setting for learning and exploration.
The Summit theme, The Big Picture, invites us to expand our perspective — reconnecting with the purpose behind our work and recognizing our collective impact as a profession. It’s an opportunity to explore why our work matters to our communities, the environment, and future generations.
Whether you're just starting out in the field or you're a seasoned professional, this event offers a chance to step back from day-to-day responsibilities, gain new perspectives, and build meaningful connections with colleagues who understand the challenges and rewards of your work. You’ll leave the Summit with practical ideas and a reliable network that will strengthen your organization and expand your impact.
This year’s event includes dynamic sessions, field experiences, networking opportunities, and more, all combining to offer you a rich professional development experience. Space is limited in Summit programs — we encourage you to register today so that you have your first pick of programs. Scholarship applications are open through May 16.
Programs are the core of the ANCA Summit. In the variety of Summit programs, you will connect with peers and experts in a supportive learning environment, while also building a professional network that will strengthen your work well beyond the Summit.
We are accepting program proposals for the 2025 ANCA Annual Summit. Program proposals will be accepted on a rolling basis through May 30.
The Summit schedule features a diverse range of activities, all designed to enrich the knowledge and skills of leaders at nature centers, outdoor schools, and related organizations.
Join us on Tuesday evening with experienced ANCA member Amber Parker, as she explores the power of storytelling in advancing our missions and transforming our leadership.
Get ready to be inspired! The Summit is coming to the Environmental Nature Center, a coastal oasis in the heart of Southern California and a nationally recognized pioneer in sustainable building design and operations.
Newport Beach offers a vibrant coastal setting for the Summit. Lodging options include the official Summit hotel partner, Ayres Hotel Costa Mesa & Newport Beach, and limited on-site opportunities at the ENC.
The ANCA Annual Summit offers a unique opportunity to showcase your brand to an engaged audience of nature center professionals. By becoming a sponsor, your business will connect with the people who make key decisions at environmental organizations across North America.
Curious about the Summit? Here are some FAQs about the event.