Secretary Of The Interior Sally Jewell Will Be Honored By The Appalachian Trail Conservancy During Leaders In Conservation Awards Gala

WASHINGTON, March 13, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) will recognize Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell during its fifth annual Leaders in Conservation Awards Gala on May 20, 2014 in Washington, D.C. Secretary Jewell will be honored with the Vanguard Award in recognition of her notable advocacy for national parks, national scenic trails, wilderness areas and the benefits of outdoor recreation.

As the 51st Secretary of the Interior, Jewell serves as steward for 20 percent of the nation's lands, including national parks, national scenic trails, national wildlife refuges, and other public lands, and also oversees the responsible development of conventional and renewable energy supplies on public lands and waters. Prior to her confirmation in 2013, Secretary Jewell served in the private sector, most recently as president and chief executive officer of Recreation Equipment, Inc. (REI). Secretary Jewell has worked to ensure that public lands are accessible and relevant to all people from all backgrounds, and has been an advocate in building connections between the great outdoors and a new generation of Americans.

"The Appalachian Trail Conservancy is proud to present the Vanguard Award to Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell," said Ron Tipton, executive director and CEO of the ATC. "We appreciate Secretary Jewell's efforts to advocate that the next generation get outdoors, especially on the Appalachian Trail."

In addition to Secretary Jewell, the ATC's Leaders in Conservation Awards Gala will recognize Sen. Richard Burr and Congressman David Price, both from North Carolina, for their commitment to the preservation of the Appalachian Trail (A.T.).

Overview:
ATC's Leaders in Conservation Awards Gala
5/20/14
6 p.m. Reception | 7 p.m. Awards and Dinner
Roof Terrace | 101 Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, D.C.

For more information, call Amy McCormick at 304.535.2200 x123, email [email protected] or visit appalachiantrail.org/gala2014.

About the ATC
The mission of the ATC is to preserve and manage the Appalachian Trail – ensuring that its vast natural beauty and priceless cultural heritage can be shared and enjoyed today, tomorrow, and for centuries to come. For more information, visit www.appalachiantrail.org.

Contact: Javier Folgar
Appalachian Trail Conservancy
Tel: 304.535.2200 x117  
[email protected]   
www.facebook.com/ATHike  
www.appalachiantrail.org  

SOURCE Appalachian Trail Conservancy