Alan Newman first grew to love camping as a teenager
growing up in Chicago. He discovered ICO while living near
Baltimore and when he moved to St. Louis joined the local
chapter in 2008. Alan currently is a research professor at
the University of Missouri-St. Louis.
"As an avid backpacker, I see ICO as an opportunity to share my love of the outdoors with young people and, in turn, to be inspired by their joy in experiencing natural settings and events."
As a child, Lou Kimmell enjoyed exploring nature with her father. Lou is a social worker, currently working with young adults experiencing mental illness symptoms. She was previously a teacher at Children's Hospital. In both work situations, Lou encouraged children and young adults to enjoy nature, organizing outings into the wilderness or heightening awareness of nature in urban settings.
"Many years ago I accompanied a family from the city on an outing to a county park to view a Christmas light display. The children were amazed and delighted, not by the light display, but by the night sky--black and filled with glowing stars. ICO provides me the opportunity to continue to share nature with children, to hear the responses of children awestruck by the beauty and mystery that surrounds us."
Renee Payton spent much of her childhood outdoors; with her siblings, Renee explored natural places in north St. Louis County, played "Lost in the Wilderness" in the backyard, and enjoyed family camping trips. She joined St. Louis ICO in 2007. Renee is a librarian and community volunteer.
"ICO gives me the chance to share my enthusiasm and respect for nature. In turn, the kids provide me with a renewed sense of wonder for the natural world."
Other leaders include Glenn Choate, Colin Hobart, Ric Groeneman, and Drew Metcalf.
Their pictures and bios are coming soon.
