ÂÜÀòÂÒÂ×

JD Tanner, M.S. Ed has extensive work experience in the field of outdoor education and recreation. Starting in 2001, JD worked as an Instructor at Southeast Missouri State University, where they taught courses, developed syllabi, and advised students. From 2007 to 2010, JD served as a Traveling Trainer for Leave No Trace, conducting workshops and trainings nationwide and also contributing to marketing, membership, partnership, and program development.

In 2010, JD joined San Juan College as the Director of Recreation, overseeing the operations of the Outdoor Leadership academic program and managing a large facility, budget, and staff. During their tenure, they also served as an Adjunct Instructor, teaching various outdoor and environmental courses and leading Leave No Trace Master Educator courses. JD's responsibilities at San Juan College also included serving on committees and managing specific programs such as the climbing wall and special events.

In 2014, JD moved on to become the Director at Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center at Southern Illinois University. In this role, they were responsible for the overall operations of a 3400 acre outdoor education and retreat center, managing a substantial budget and overseeing a large staff. The center served as an outdoor laboratory for experiential learning, research, and recreation therapy, catering to the university, the region, and the nation.

Currently, JD is serving as the Director of Education and Training at Leave No Trace, a position they started in 2021. This role involves overseeing the educational programs and training initiatives of the organization.

Throughout their career, JD has also worked as a Writer/Photographer for Globe Pequot Press / Falcon Guides, writing and photographing hiking and biking guides. JD has authored 12 books published by major retailers.

Overall, JD Tanner, M.S. Ed has a diverse range of experience in outdoor education, recreation, and training, with a strong focus on Leave No Trace principles and practices.

JD Tanner, M.S. Ed has a strong educational background in the field of Recreation Administration and Educational Leadership and Administration. JD earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Outdoor Recreation from Southeast Missouri State University in 2003. JD then pursued further education and obtained a Master of Science in Education degree in Recreation Administration from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale in 2006. Currently, JD Tanner is a Doctoral Student in Education at Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, specializing in Educational Leadership and Administration, General, a program they started in 2020 and is expected to complete in 2023.

In addition to their formal education, JD Tanner has also obtained several certifications in outdoor education and recreation. These certifications include being a Leave No Trace Master Educator Course Instructor obtained from Leave No Trace in April 2019 and Wilderness Education Association in May 2009. JD is also an ACA Level II Canoe Instructor accredited by the American Canoe Association since May 2015. JD Tanner is a certified National Standards Certifying Instructor and obtained their certification from Wilderness Education Association in July 2006. JD holds the title of Leave No Trace Master Educator acquired from Leave No Trace in October 2004. JD Tanner is a Certified Park and Recreation Professional recognized by the National Recreation and Park Association since January 2007. Furthermore, they have completed Wilderness First Responder training from the Wilderness Medicine Training Center in November 2003. Other certifications JD Tanner has earned include Challenge Course Level II Practitioner from Challenge Leadership Adventure Systems in May 2011 and Climbing Wall Instructor from the American Mountain Guide Association in April 2011.