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A Decade of Dedication: The Aleen Steinberg Center Opens as a Gateway to DuPont State Recreational Forest

Originally published July 16, 2013 – Updated June 2025

Nestled at the threshold of more than 10,000 acres of breathtaking forestland, the Aleen Steinberg Center now stands as both a gateway and a tribute—a hub for education, conservation, and community. Its completion was made possible through TVA Settlement Funds, with a vision to establish a venue for learning and stewardship at the edge of DuPont State Recreational Forest’s 80 miles of multi-use trails, waterfalls, and wild beauty.

A Legacy Honored

In January 2013, the facility was officially named in honor of Aleen Steinberg—an unwavering advocate for the forest and one of its earliest protectors. A native of Wisconsin and longtime Florida resident, Aleen and her family spent summers in Cedar Mountain, where she fell in love with the landscape once owned by the DuPont Corporation. When plans emerged to develop the forest’s heartland into a gated luxury community, Aleen was among the 22 local citizens who rose to stop it, preserving it for public enjoyment and environmental education.

Construction on the center began that winter, with photo journals capturing its transformation from dream to reality. On July 1, 2013, more than 200 leaders and supporters—including representatives from the NC Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services, NC Forest Service, area counties, tourism boards, and volunteers—gathered to celebrate its opening.

You can view a journal of photos here: Aleen Steinberg Center construction.

During the dedication ceremony, LT Ward, Vice President of WNC Communities, shared a moving “forest fairy tale” to commemorate the collective heart and hard work behind the center. [Click here to read the full story.]

“The ASC is a real treasure, and we highly recommend folks go see this work of art for themselves,” shared Linda Lamp, then Executive Director of WNC Communities. “It was an honor for WNC Communities to support the completion of this decade-long endeavor started by the Friends of DuPont Forest.”

 

A Community Effort

This achievement is a testament to the power of collaboration. Countless individuals, businesses, and agencies gave their time, talent, and resources to bring this project to life. With deep appreciation, we extend special thanks to:

  • Myles Alexander, Form & Function Architecture
  • Tony Campano, EcoWise Construction, LLC
  • Richard Conway, All Wood Floorcraft
  • Frank Cubero, Cabinet Maker
  • Jim Erickson, Project Manager
  • Jim Garth, Decorative Flooring
  • Sarah Sneeden, Artist
  • Bill Yarborough, NCDA & CS
  • Apple Valley Model Railroad Club of Hendersonville
  • DuPont State Forest Staff
  • Friends of DuPont Forest
  • NC Forest Service
  • NC Forest Service BRIDGE Program
  • NCDA & CS Staff

Looking Ahead

Today, the Aleen Steinberg Center continues to welcome visitors, inspire future conservationists, and serve as a symbol of what’s possible when people come together to protect the places they love.