NAA recognizes professionals, who, early in their natural areas careers, demonstrate excellence in research, protection or the stewardship of natural areas. NAA‘s Rising Leader Award (RLA) is given in recognition of an individual who, in a relatively short amount of time has made significant impact relatively early in their career. While not yet at their professional peak, RLA nominees have already inspired others with their innovative thinking, collaborative efforts, leadership, and inclusive approaches in natural areas research, protection or stewardship. 

The award recognizes: 

• An outstanding natural areas practitioner and within the first ten years of their professional career. 
  
• Innovative thinking, collaborative efforts, leadership, and/or inclusive approaches in natural areas research, protection or stewardship. 
• Made one or more significant contributions to their team, project, or program.