We are reliant on our state-level advisory board members and our National Board of Directors who actively engage to ensure that the organization has adequate resources to advance its mission.

The role of the advisory boards is to increase and enhance TPL’s effectiveness, impact, and reach through philanthropy and connections to key stakeholders, advocacy, and provide state leadership with strategic guidance.  Advisory board members are our advocates, ambassadors and donors.

We also depend on our Next Generation Council volunteers who actively collaborate with their peers and our organization to impact TPL’s future growth and ensure we have adequate resources to advance our mission. Over 80 members serve on four Next Gen Councils across the United States.

The role of the Next Gen member is to promote the organization, cultivate relationships in the community, connect TPL with a broader network of supporters and provide advisement and support to meet the local field office’s needs. Regional/state-specific councils are composed of young professionals from varying backgrounds and career paths who are dedicated to TPL’s mission and furthering our work.

Experience and skillsets for Advisory Board members and Next Gen members include:

  • Marketing and public relations
  • Organizational development (e.g. facilitation, training, and strategic planning)
  • Fundraising
  • Event planning

If you’re interested in joining your local advisory board or Next Gen Council please contact [email protected].

Our Advisory Boards

California Advisory Board
Chicago Advisory Board
Colorado & Southwest Advisory Board
Connecticut Advisory Board
Georgia Advisory Board
Hawaii Advisory Board
Minnesota Advisory Board
New England Advisory Board
New Jersey Advisory Board
New York Advisory Board
Northwest Advisory Board
Northern Rockies Advisory Board
Ohio Advisory Board
Texas Advisory Board

Seven people stand together outdoors with the U.S. Capitol in the background, posing for a group photo at a rooftop event on a sunny day.
Ferguson Award

Named for Douglas P. Ferguson, a founding National Board member, this prestigious award honors volunteer leaders whose exceptional dedication, leadership, and generosity go above and beyond. Presented annually to one National Board member and one Advisory Board member, it reflects our deepest appreciation for those who play a vital role in advancing TPL’s mission to connect everyone to the outdoors. Recipients are also presented with a crystal vase and tartan scarf—imported from Scotland in the traditional colors of the Ferguson clan—in recognition of the award’s namesake.