DNR educators honored with top statewide environmental education awards

From decades-long careers dedicated to public stewardship and introducing people to outdoor recreation and nature to innovative partnerships that bring natural science into Michigan classrooms, Michigan Department of Natural Resources education efforts are making a difference – and being recognized.

Four of the nine exceptional natural resources educators honored by the Michigan Alliance for Environmental and Outdoor Education at its annual conference last week have strong DNR connections.

“These educators are the best around, and we are proud to be their colleagues,” said Tracy Page, manager of the DNR Education Services Section, part of the Marketing and Outreach Division. “They embody the DNR’s mission to inspire the next generation of conservationists, and the department is thrilled with their statewide recognition.”

This year’s honorees include:

Mike Latus, a longtime explorer guide at Warren Dunes State Park in Berrien County, received the Julian Smith Award – MAEOE’s highest honor in outdoor education.The award, named for the nationally recognized director of Michigan State University’s historic Outdoor Education Project, recognizes Latus’ decades of excellence conducting public programs in hunting, fishing, camping, archery, forestry, astronomy and nature study.

Michelle Serreyn, of the DNR Outdoor Adventure Center in Detroit, earned the William Stapp Award, MAEOE’s highest honor in environmental education.Named after the University of Michigan’s pioneering Dr. Bill Stapp, the award honors Serreyn’s decades of programming centered on community awareness, sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Rose Menzies, educator for the new state park in Flint, operated in partnership with Genesee County Parks, took home the Rising Star Award. The award highlights an early-career professional showing incredible promise and growth in local natural resources programming.Nature programs at the state park teach visitors about topics such as fishing, archery, birding, Michigan’s wildlife and more.

Tammy Smith, a teacher at Morrice Elementary School in Shiawassee County, earned the Recognition Award. A longtime Salmon in the Classroom teacher who is working to get forest land in her school district certified as a school forest, Smith has also attended the DNR’s Academy of Natural Resources teacher professional development week a remarkable 10 times.

“Tammy shines among the teachers who participate in our programs. DNR education efforts could not reach students with as great an impact without teachers like her,” said DNR Salmon in the Classroom coordinator Katie McGlashen.In addition to a wide range of opportunities for teachers to bring natural resources experience and knowledge to the classroom, the DNR’s education programs help people of all ages and abilities develop their skills in – and understanding of – Michigan’s outdoors.Learn more about what’s available, from visitor centers and free field trips in state parks to outdoor skills classes and virtual nature lessons, at Michigan.gov/DNREducation.