MOREHEAD CITY, N.C. (Sept. 22, 2025) – The Kenan Fellows Program for Teacher Leadership at N.C. State University has been awarded a 2025 Pelican Award from the North Carolina Coastal Federation. The honor recognizes the program’s long-standing partnerships that connect K–12 educators with the state’s coastal environments and bring lessons of science, resilience, and stewardship to classrooms across North Carolina.
Through fellowships and initiatives such as the Mountains to Sea Scholars, the Kenan Fellows Program has built collaborations with the Federation, Core Sound Waterfowl Museum and Heritage Center, university marine labs, and state and national parks. These experiences allow teachers to explore coastal STEM resources firsthand and share them with students statewide.
Pictured above: Mark Townley, associate director (left), and Carrie Horton, program manager (right), accept the Pelican Award from Rachel Bisesi.
“We are deeply honored to receive this recognition from the North Carolina Coastal Federation. Their leadership in advancing coastal health, science, and research is making a lasting impact on future generations. Like us, they believe that teachers are professionals who deserve respect and investment, and they demonstrate that commitment by engaging some of the finest environmental educators in the state. We are grateful to partner with such a dedicated organization,” stated Mark Townley, associate director of the Kenan Fellows Program for Teacher Leadership.
The Pelican Awards are presented annually by the Coastal Federation to individuals and organizations making exceptional contributions to protecting and restoring the North Carolina coast. This year’s winners were celebrated at Carteret Community College’s Joslyn Hall on Saturday, Sept. 20. Representing the Kenan Fellows Program were Townley and Carrie Horton, program manager.
About the Kenan Fellows Program for Teacher Leadership
The Kenan Fellows Program for Teacher Leadership at NC State University advances teacher leadership, enriches curriculum, and strengthens connections between K–12 education and local communities. The program provides immersive fellowships and professional development that prepare educators to inspire future learners and colleagues.
About the Pelican Awards
Presented annually by the North Carolina Coastal Federation, the Pelican Awards honor individuals and organizations that have made extraordinary contributions through leadership, education, hands-on projects, and volunteer efforts that protect and restore North Carolina’s coast.