Ellen Bashor influences thousands to get out into nature but she humbly describes it as simply educating people about nature. As the Outdoor Learning Coordinator at the Prescott Community Nature Center, a joint effort between the Prescott Unified School District and the City of Prescott, Ellen has been instrumental in transforming a once underused park into a thriving hub for environmental education.
When she first began her journey as a park ranger at the Nature Center just four years ago, the area welcomed only a handful of visitors each week. Today, thanks to her leadership, passion, and tireless efforts, the center has grown to host over 10,000 annual visitors, offering children, families, and educators hands-on experiences that connect them to the natural world.
Ellen’s devotion to her community is evident in everything she does. Always willing to lend a hand or go the extra mile, she puts others before herself to ensure Prescott is a place where everyone can thrive, where learning happens under open skies, and where the beauty of nature is accessible to all. Through her work, Ellen is not just teaching about the outdoors; she’s helping to build a stronger, more connected, and more compassionate Prescott.