From volunteer to vital team member, this high school senior is making waves - literally and figuratively - at MDWFP’s Mississippi Museum of Natural Science! Whether drenched in rain mid-kayak with a group of campers or helping keep the park clean and welcoming, this spotlighted staffer brings energy, curiosity, and a love of wildlife to everything he does. His journey proves you don’t have to wait until college to make a difference.
Celebrating Board Member J.T. Mitchell – Top 40 Under 40 Honoree!
We’re proud to celebrate one of our own! MMNS Foundation board member J.T. Mitchell has been named a Top 40 Under 40 by the Mississippi Business Journal. In this blog post, we recognize J.T.’s outstanding achievement and share our appreciation for his leadership, service, and dedication to the museum.
Read more about J.T.’s recognition and his impact on the Foundation.
Museum Staff Spotlight: Blake King, Exhibits Supervisor
From exhibit graphics to owl encounters, Blake King brings creativity, humor, and heart to everything he touches at the Museum. As our new Exhibits Supervisor, Blake uses design to tell powerful stories, connect people with science, and bring fresh energy to our visual identity. Meet Blake and learn how he’s blending art and conservation in surprising (and sometimes hilarious) ways.
Avery Rollins, MMNSF Board Member
Meet Avery Rollins, a sixth-generation Mississippian and an invaluable MMNS Foundation Board Member for over 20 years! From his early days exploring the Bogue Chitto River to a distinguished career with the FBI, Avery has always been driven by a passion for conservation and community. In retirement, he’s as adventurous as ever - white water canoeing, tree farming, and championing environmental causes in Mississippi and beyond. Learn how Avery’s lifetime of travel and deep roots in Mississippi fuel his work to protect the natural wonders right here at home.
Jackie Posey Bailey, CPA, MMNSF Board Member
Meet Jackie Posey Bailey, a dedicated community leader and proud supporter of the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science! After a successful career as a CPA and years of nonprofit service, Jackie brings her passion for giving back to the MMNS Foundation Board. Learn more about her journey and commitment to our community in our latest spotlight.
Museum Staff Spotlight: Marinee Humphries, Environmental/Natural Resources Specialist I
Meet Marinee Humphries, one of our all-star environmental specialists helping protect Mississippi’s wild side! Whether she’s wading through wetlands, diving into species data, or helping museum guests connect with conservation, Marinee brings energy, expertise, and a love for the outdoors to everything she does. From freshwater mussels to bumblebees, her work is all about discovery, impact, and hands-on adventure. Read on to learn how this former nursing student found her true calling in conservation!
With a background in studio art and psychology, she brings a creative touch to everything she doe! Her journey to the Museum? It all started with an opossum … Read more about Emma’s role and her favorite Museum moments in our latest Staff Spotlight!
My View of the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science - by Andrew Whitehurst
What makes the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science so special? In this heartfelt guest post, conservationist and MMNSF Board Member Andrew Whitehurst shares his personal reflections on the Museum’s exhibits, trails, and its power to spark a lifelong love of nature in children and families. From fish tanks to swamp walks, discover the quiet magic that keeps visitors coming back.
Andrew Whitehurst, MMNSF Board Member
We’re proud to spotlight one of our own! Meet MMNS Foundation Board Member Andrew Whitehurst, whose deep roots with the Museum span from research and education to trail restoration and aquarium care. With a passion for conservation and a wealth of experience in ecology and advocacy, Andrew brings a unique perspective to the board. Learn more about his inspiring journey and continued commitment to protecting Mississippi’s natural treasures.
Museum Staff Spotlight: Emma Lorenz, Playground and Rentals Manager, and Guest Service Representative
Meet Emma Lorenz, the Museum’s Playground and Rentals Manager & Guest Services Representative! Whether she’s setting up birthday parties, keeping the playground in top shape, or making sure the front desk team (and security) have their much-needed morning coffee, Emma plays a key role in making the Museum a welcoming place for all.
With a background in studio art and psychology, she brings a creative touch to everything she doe! Her journey to the Museum? It all started with an opossum … Read more about Emma’s role and her favorite Museum moments in our latest Staff Spotlight!
Sheila Smith, MMNSF Board Member
Sheila Smith brings over 30 years of experience in Mississippi public schools as a science teacher and district administrator. A passionate advocate for science education, she has led multi-million-dollar grants, served as president of the Mississippi Science Teaching Association, and held leadership roles with the National Science Teaching Association and National Biology Teachers Association. Throughout her career, Sheila has earned numerous prestigious awards, including fellowships with Princeton University, National Geographic, and Fulbright Japan. Her dedication to advancing science education continues through her work with curriculum development and assessment initiatives nationwide. Read more …