Karla VanderZanden Named to Nonprofit Hall of Fame
The Utah Nonprofits Association honored the co-founder for her decades of work in education.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Awards
Live Poll
Should local nonprofit leaders be formally recognized for their contributions to community programs?
Karla VanderZanden has been inducted into the Utah Nonprofits Association Hall of Fame. The award was presented at the 2026 UNA Annual Impact Conference in Layton.
Why it matters
The association honors leaders who have demonstrated a lasting impact on their organizations and missions. VanderZanden is recognized for her extensive commitment to nonprofit service.
VanderZanden co-founded the Canyonlands Field Institute over 40 years ago, which has since facilitated educational programs for 50,000 participants. She currently serves as a Utah Cultural Site Steward and a board member for the Ellen Meloy Fund.
The players
Karla VanderZanden
She is the co-founder of the Canyonlands Field Institute and a dedicated volunteer serving as a Utah Cultural Site Steward.
Utah Nonprofits Association
This organization supports the nonprofit sector by providing resources and recognizing leaders who advance their community missions.
Michele Jordon Johnson
She formally accepted the award on behalf of VanderZanden during the ceremony in Layton.
Canyonlands Field Institute
Established over four decades ago, this organization facilitates outdoor educational programming focused on the Colorado Plateau.
Ellen Meloy Fund
This organization supports creative projects that honor the legacy of writer Ellen Meloy, with VanderZanden serving as a board member.
The details
Michele Jordon Johnson accepted the prestigious award on behalf of VanderZanden during the organization's annual conference. The institute was originally founded to provide outdoor adventures that integrate an educational purpose.
Timeline
Summer 1984: Canyonlands Field Institute was co-founded.
Late September 2026: Utah Nonprofits Association announced the Hall of Fame induction.
October 2026: The 2026 UNA Annual Impact Conference occurred in Layton.
Culture Shift
This induction reflects the broader societal trend of valuing long-term volunteerism and regional heritage preservation. It mirrors the growing recognition of grassroots leaders who build enduring institutions within the nonprofit sector.
This award highlights the ongoing influence of the Canyonlands Field Institute on regional education and site preservation efforts. Residents interested in nonprofit leadership may view this as a benchmark for community-based environmental advocacy.
The takeaway
Recognizing long-term contributors provides a model for future community organizers seeking to build sustainable programs. VanderZanden's career serves as an example of how consistent educational outreach can impact thousands of lives over four decades.
Further reading
For more information on regional honors and recognition, visit the Awards section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Moabtimes.
Live Poll
Should local nonprofit leaders be formally recognized for their contributions to community programs?
