Niki Schmutte
LaPorte County Parks Chief Naturalist Niki Schmutte and Recreation and Education Programmer Laura Moyer have been recognized for excellence with two state awards.
Schmutte and Moyer received the awards from the Environment Education Association of Indiana (EEAI). Schmutte received the President’s Award for her longtime devotion and dedication to her work, and her assistance to the organization. Moyer received the Joe Wright Recognition of Excellence Award for specific achievements in the field of environmental education of Indiana. This award recognizes a member for consistent dedication to quality interpretation and environmental education.
Schmutte has been the LaPorte County Parks chief naturalist since February 1994. Niki has made a huge impact on the lives of her program participants, community members, professional peers and her staff.
Moyer has been the LaPorte County Parks recreation and education programmer
since October 2007. She has made a number of remarkable accomplishments in park
Laura Moyer
programming and outdoor recreation.
LaPorte County Parks Superintendent Tim Morgan said, “These two ladies exemplify the true meaning of interpretation. They have a track record of being great storytellers, invaluable fountains of facts and knowledge, and icons as naturalists, interpreters and environmental educators. They demonstrate outstanding leadership in enhancing the quality of life and enjoyment of the outdoors for all ages.”
Over the years, 110,100 participants have attended LaPorte County’s parks, school programs and special events.
