Instructor Spotlight: Annie Dillon
Annie Dillon became part of the Muddy Sneakers family five years ago, driven by a singular passion – to offer today’s children the same cherished opportunities she had as a child: the freedom to explore and savor the wonders of the great outdoors in safety.
Annie reflects on her own childhood with gratitude for the time, space, and liberty she had to play outdoors, investigate local creeks, and reap the countless rewards of nature’s classroom. As she observes our society growing increasingly disconnected from the natural world, her dedication to imparting transformative nature experiences to children remains unwavering.
I think that education and access to natural spaces are fundamental human rights and kids are the future.
One particular anecdote from her time in the field exemplifies the profound impact that Muddy Sneakers can have on a child’s life.
During an Aquatic Ecosystems expedition, Annie had the privilege of working with a student who didn’t always shine in the traditional classroom setting. On that day, this student’s collection of 30 different species of macroinvertebrates transformed him into an expert in the eyes of his peers. They looked up to him, sought his guidance, and inquisitively probed his methodology. Annie was deeply moved by the realization that this child may never have experienced such recognition before. “You should’ve seen his face when I told him he could make a living as a biologist doing the same work,” she recalls.
Annie’s greatest wish for all Muddy Sneakers students is that they carry cherished memories of their time in the creek throughout their lives. She hopes they continue to seek solace and inspiration in nature. Moreover, she dreams that if they become parents one day, they’ll introduce their own children to the breathtaking natural spaces where they played, explored, and forged meaningful connections during their 5th grade year.
When she’s not inspiring the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts, Annie can be found on the river, floating along or casting a line in pursuit of her love for fishing. Yet, even in these tranquil moments, she eagerly anticipates greeting the next group of enthusiastic faces disembarking from the school bus, ready to explore North Carolina’s abundant and beautiful natural landscapes.
