The Oklahoma Conservation Commission’s Blue Thumb Program and Oklahoma Forestry Services are proud to announce that Nicole Black of Ada, Oklahoma, has been recognized as the 2026 Oklahoma Project Learning Tree (PLT), Project WET, and Project WILD Outstanding Facilitator of the Year.
PLT/WET/WILD provide educators with high-quality, science-based environmental education resources focused on forests, water, wildlife, conservation and natural resources stewardship. Together, these nationally recognized programs help educators engage students in hands-on learning experiences that build environmental literacy and critical thinking skills.
The Outstanding Facilitator of the Year Award recognizes an active Oklahoma facilitator who demonstrates exceptional leadership, service, and dedication to advancing environmental education through educator professional development and community outreach. 86 passionate volunteers currently serve as facilitators statewide, leading professional development events, tabling at conferences, and connecting resources with educators in their local and professional communities.
“The success of Oklahoma’s PLT, WET, and WILD programs depends on dedicated facilitators who generously share their time and expertise,” said Tony Pascall, Oklahoma Forestry Services and Oklahoma Project Learning Tree Coordinator. “Nicole’s commitment to helping educators connect students with the natural world makes her exceptionally deserving of this recognition.”
A dedicated 4-H volunteer from Ada, Nicole is a vital member of Oklahoma’s environmental education ecosystem since becoming a facilitator in 2024. She has helped lead 14 educator workshops, training hundreds of educators and has represented Oklahoma PLT/WET/WILD programs at numerous conferences and outreach events. Through these efforts, she has helped connect educators with resources that inspire students to explore forests, water, wildlife, and the natural world around them.
“Nicole exemplifies what it means to be an outstanding facilitator,” said Jack Hilgert, Oklahoma Project WET and Project WILD State Coordinator with OCC. “Whether she is assisting with educator workshops, tabling at conferences, or encouraging fellow educators and volunteers, Nicole consistently brings enthusiasm, professionalism, and a passion for environmental education. Her willingness to serve and support others has helped expand the reach of these programs all over Oklahoma.”
Educators, schools, and organizations interested in PLT/WET/WILD can contact Jack Hilgert at jack.hilgert@conservation.ok.gov or Tony Pascall at anthony.pascall@ag.ok.gov to learn more about workshops, facilitator opportunities, and available environmental education resources.
