Reid graduated in ’13 with a major in Parks, Recreation and Ecotourism and a minor in Wildlife, and was nominated for the award by several staff and faculty in recognition for her leadership and work in the outdoors.

After coming to Unity, Reid quickly emerged as one the College’s most notable conservation leaders. She became the go-to person for her peers on campus regarding natural resource issues and concerns, all while maintaining an excellent academic standing.

In recognition for her contributions to Unity College and the community at large, Reid was nominated for the award by Unity College Career Consultant/Internship Coordinator Nicole Collins and Tom Mullin, Associate Professor of Parks and Forest Resources.

The Young Conservation Leader Award is presented to an individual in the 30 and below age group who has demonstrated innovative leadership in advancing conservation.

“Leeann thoroughly enjoys sharing her ideas, and her passion for the environment is demonstrated by her commitment to making the outdoors safe, accessible and enjoyable for generations to come,” said Tom Mullin. “While doing this important work she also inspires others along the way, making her what I believe to be a true conservationist. I am very pleased that the AMC recognized Leeann’s accomplishments.”

“Leeann is highly dedicated to her own professional and personal development. She has truly found her calling and is taking action knowing that she can make a difference,” said Nicole Collins. “Tireless, energetic and always wanting to learn more, she is a very worthy recipient of this award.”

Some of Reid’s accomplishments include:

•Contributed time and effort to the Unity College Trail Crew as well as two other professional trail crews
•Volunteered for the Maine Appalachian Mountain Club building multi-use trails in Greenville, Maine
•Served as a conservation crew intern for Mount Agamenticus Conservation in York, Maine
•Worked as a wildlife rehabilitation intern for The Center for Wildlife in Cape Neddick, Maine
•Spent a semester in Central America studying sustainability issues through the Center for Ecological Living and Learning where she gained an appreciation for global environmental issues

“The award I received was very meaningful and I am certain will enable me to continue my work in conservation, trail building, and environmental protection,” said Leeann Reid. “At Unity College I was fortunate to have had so many opportunities to study the field that interests me while simultaneously working and taking action in order to make a difference.  There is definitely a tangible connection between my experience at Unity College and the AMC award that I received, and I am truly grateful.”

“In these days of heightened access to electronic devices, especially among young people, Leeann is an absolute breath of fresh air.  Her amazing accomplishments reflect well on Leeann and on Unity College, and bode well for our hopes for the future,” said John Mullens, Vice Chair of the Maine Chapter of the Appalachian Mountain Club. “Her energy, enthusiasm, and commitment to conservation action are outstanding.  I see her as a model and wonderful example for her generation, and I hope her philosophy, standards, and actions influence other young people to follow in her footsteps.  The AMC’s Maine Chapter looks forward to working with Leeann and tracking her future activities.