VERO BEACH — The Environmental Learning Center has launched a new Advisory Council made up of more than 25 community leaders to boost its mission of environmental education in Indian River County.
The nonprofit nature center, known for its “hands-on, feet-wet” programs, announced the council’s formation Tuesday. Chaired by local business leader and volunteer Steve Schlitt, the group aims to connect the ELC with the broader community, promote its history and ensure its lasting sustainability.
For nearly four decades, the ELC has offered hands-on experiences focused on the Indian River Lagoon and surrounding ecosystems. Council members will serve as ambassadors, providing advice, resources and partnerships to sustain the organization’s work.
“The history of this organization, founded by a group of environmental pioneers, is a powerful story that needs to be told and re-told,” said Barbara Schlitt Ford, the ELC’s executive director. “Our new Advisory Council members are committed to carrying that torch.”
Among the council’s notable members is Dr. Duane DeFreese, executive director of the Indian River Lagoon Council. He called the ELC “an invaluable asset” in protecting the lagoon, a nationally significant estuary.
“The ELC is an invaluable asset in the fight to protect the Indian River Lagoon,” DeFreese said. “Joining the Advisory Council is a chance to ensure the science-based education the ELC provides continues to reach every corner of our community.”
Kelly Baysura, assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction for the School District of Indian River County, pointed out the ELC’s role in education. She said its programs improve classroom learning through fostering inquiry-based experiences that build critical thinking.
Donna Anderson, niece of ELC founder Maggy Bowman, emphasized youth development. “I believe wholeheartedly in the power of experiential learning in nature,” Anderson said. “The ELC’s ability to connect children with the natural world is unparalleled.”
Clemens Schaub, a tropical architecture firm principal, described the center as representing the region’s best qualities. “The ELC is a part of me and represents the very best attributes of the place where we live,” Schaub said.
Other members include former board members Cindy O’Dare, Sandy Kahle and Janice Broda; David Carter, nephew of co-founder George Bunnell; science educator Margaret Ingram; real estate co-owner Matilda Sorensen; coastal engineer Michael Walther; and Dr. David Cox, a longtime habitat restoration volunteer.
The council also features mid-career professionals such as wealth manager Jim Beindorf, realtor Andrew Gonzalez, tourism executives Kirk Funnell and Anna Valencia-Tillery, attorney Jennifer Peshke, business owner Nick Bischoff, banker Theo Perry and chamber board member Nicki Maslin.
Additional leaders include former board members John Daniels, Rob Tench and Georgie Hutton; community liaison Wilfred Hart; boat captain Dave Richter; architect Michael Ohler; and general contractor George Ritacco.
Schlitt, the council chair, said the group views the ELC as a county treasure. “Our collective goal as the Advisory Council is not just to offer support, but to actively champion the ELC’s mission,” he said.
Founded in 1988, the ELC sits on a 64-acre barrier island site in Vero Beach, offering programs, eco-adventures, camps, aquariums, trails and exhibits. It’s open daily and focuses on inspiring environmental stewardship.
More details on council members are available at Discover ELC. Those interested in involvement may contact the ELC for opportunities.