Events

ANCA Summit 2025: The Big Picture | Environmental Nature Center in Newport Beach, California | August 25-29


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.

Slide

“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

Slide

“This conference has been instrumental in helping me develop my nature center.”

— 2024 Summit Participant

Slide

“This was my first ANCA experience. I met great people from organizations of every size and strength, and was blown away by the work being done by others around the country. I hope I will be able to attend for years to come."

— 2024 Summit Participant

Slide

“Consistently the best professional development for leaders in our field! Everyone is welcoming, inclusive, helpful, and willing to help others.”

— 2024 Summit Participant

Slide

“This was my first ANCA Summit and such a rewarding experience overall. I felt the event was better organized and offered more community than any conference I have attended before."

— 2024 Summit Participant

previous arrow
next arrow