Paul Kinder, research assistant professor and director of the Natural Resource Analysis Center in the Davis College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, is the recipient of the American Legion Department of West Virginia 2025 Educator of the Year Award.
Kinder was recognized for accomplishments above and beyond his vocation during the West Virginia American Legion Conference held Feb. 13 at Oglebay Resort in Wheeling.
Kinder has devoted countless hours to the veteran community through Patriots 4, a nonprofit organization committed to supporting combat wounded service members and their families with free outdoor recreational facilities in the mountains of West Virginia.
“Introducing our veterans to our mountains, forests and streams are often the best learning environments and therapy, and I am truly honored by these opportunities to serve those who sacrificed for our freedom,” Kinder said.
To provide a relaxing, serene environment for wounded veterans, Kinder volunteers his time to restoring streams, creating trout pools, building trails and planting food plots.
He also helps ensure veterans feel appreciated and enjoy the outdoors by organizing fishing, floating and hunting trips for them and their families. He also shares his wisdom around the campfire and cooks the game afterward for everyone to enjoy.
“Kinder is recognized for his hands-on teaching style and his commitment to environmental stewardship,” Retired U.S. Army Master Sgt. Craig Hartzell said. “He often joins students in the field wearing jeans and boots and operating heavy equipment, and his support as an active board member of Patriots 4 and wounded men and women who served our nation is commendable.”
“Paul is truly one of the most selfless people I have ever had the pleasure of knowing,” said Michael Strager, professor in the Davis College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. “He values people and relationships more than status or achievements. He values experiences more than possessions.”
Kinder was nominated by Penny Lipscomb, director of the Center for Veteran, Military and Family Programs.
“I have never met someone so humble and grateful for the work he does for others,” Lipscomb said. “He is one of a kind and I am honored to know him.”