NEWS RELEASE

Holly Dill, Executive Director of the Environmental Learning Center (ELC), has announced her intention to retire later this year.  As the ELC’s first permanent Executive Director, Holly has held this position since this important environmental education nature center was created 25 years ago.  She played a major role in bringing this privately-funded, not-for-profit to life on its 64-acre campus on Wabasso Island.  Under her leadership, the ELC has provided hands-on, environmental education experiences to more than 400,000 people, including 60,000 first, third, and fourth grade students, as part of the Indian River County School District curriculum.

Prior to assuming her role at the ELC, Holly was a long-range planner in both Palm Beach County Florida and Teton County, Wyoming.  She was also Executive Director of the Jackson Hole Alliance for Responsible Planning. Holly currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Association of Nature Center Administrators, an international network of nature and environmental learning center leaders designed to enhance professionalism and provide the support system critical to innovative and progressive management.

The ELC has been a trailblazer in the field of environmental education for years.  Now, more than ever, with the degradation of the Indian River Lagoon, the ELC intends to continue educating members of the community on how they can change their actions and behaviors to reduce their negative impacts on the lagoon.  Recognizing the importance of both her knowledge and experience in the ELC, Holly plans to stay in her role to ensure a smooth transition to the next director.

ELC Board Chairman, Bill Friesell, said that, “During her 25 years of outstanding leadership, Holly has become an important part of the ELC fabric.  The Board, staff, volunteers and the many other avid supporters of the ELC will miss her.  It is reassuring to know that she will still be close by – and available for advice and consultation.”

Asked about her future plans, Holly said, “I’m looking forward to having more personal time to explore the environment I’ve been working to protect for years. A relaxing ride on the St. Sebastian River in my jon boat, a walk in a nearby park, a stroll on the ELC’s boardwalks…it will be a pleasure to play in nature!”

The Environmental Learning Center is located north of Vero Beach off County Road 510 at the western end of the Wabasso Bridge. Its campus includes exhibit areas, native plant gardens, picnic facilities, gift shop, and a visitor center. ELC membership benefits, a list of its many field excursions, Ecology Adventures, including nature walks, canoe excursions, and boating adventures can be found at www.DiscoverELC.org. Admission is $5 per person, children 12 and under free, and ELC members receive free admission year-around. The first Saturday of every month is free to all.