Chris Zachow turned a childhood love of museums into two decades of transformational leadership as President and Treasurer of the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science Foundation. From bringing blockbuster exhibits to life, to steering the Foundation through its strategic growth and a global pandemic, Chris has helped shape the Museum into the beloved destination it is today. As she prepares for her well-earned retirement, we reflect on her incredible impact - and the legacy she leaves behind for future generations of science lovers. This is the story of a leader who followed her curiosity - and invited all of us along with her.
Museum Staff Spotlight: Nathan Prine, Environmental/Natural Resources Technician
Nathan Prine, Environmental/Natural Resources Technician, brings his lifelong love of wildlife full circle at the Museum. Whether he’s freediving for mussels, cataloging new fish specimens, or prepping for a regional ichthyology conference, Nathan is all-in when it comes to science and conservation. And to think - it all started with visits to the Museum as a kid.
Read how his early curiosity turned into a career he’s proud of, and why he says working with federally threatened and petitioned species is a dream come true.
Rockell "Rock" Ingram, MMNSF Board of Directors
Meet Rock Ingram: Leader, Volunteer, and Proud Museum Dad
From serving our country overseas to serving up curiosity at the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science, Rockell “Rock” Ingram brings heart, leadership, and dedication to everything he does. As a proud Mississippi native, veteran, and STEM professional, Rock uses his talents to support the next generation - whether he’s mentoring through energy industry organizations, helping families with their finances, or operating the Museum’s mechanical dinosaur alongside his son, Christian.
We're proud to have Rock as a valued member of the MMNS Foundation Board. His passion for education, service, and science shines through in every way he gives back.
Read more about Rock’s story and impact.
Chris Zachow, Treasurer, MMNSF Board of Directors
Museum Staff Spotlight: Tom Mann, Zoologist, MS Natural Heritage Program
For 35 years, Tom Mann, Zoologist with the Mississippi Natural Heritage Program, has been on a mission to protect some of Mississippi’s most unique creatures - from salamanders and snakes to tortoises and rare sandhill plants.
Whether he’s rescuing amphibians on a rainy night, tracking endangered species, or mentoring the next generation of biologists, Tom’s passion for conservation runs deep. In this Staff Spotlight, he shares stories from the field, reflections on a lifetime of science and stewardship, and why he believes protecting nature begins with curiosity and care.
Susanne Still, MMNSF Board Member
We’re excited to introduce Susanne Sturdivant Still, a Licensed Professional Counselor, small business owner, and dedicated community advocate, as part of our MMNS Foundation Board of Directors. With a passion for helping others and a heart for service, Susanne brings a unique blend of leadership, counseling expertise, and nonprofit experience to the Foundation. From Greenwood to Ridgeland, her roots run deep in Mississippi - and we’re thrilled to have her insight and energy on the board.
Learn more about Susanne’s journey and her commitment to making a difference.
Museum Staff Spotlight: Cory (CJ) Hillard, Southern Biologist
Katie Bridgforth, MMNSF Board Member
We’re excited to spotlight Katie Bridgforth, a passionate educator and longtime advocate for early childhood learning. As a kindergarten teacher and active community member, Katie brings incredible heart and dedication to everything she does - including her role on the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science Foundation Board.
Get to know Katie and how her love for learning, teaching, and science makes her a natural fit for our Foundation family.
Alyssa Fenton, MMNSF Board Committee Member
We're excited to highlight Alyssa Fenton, a talented communications professional and a valued member of the Foundation Board’s Communications Committee. With a strong background in journalism, graphic design, and statewide strategic marketing, Alyssa brings a vibrant voice and creative energy to our work. Her deep commitment to Mississippi’s communities shines through in everything she does - from building digital communications from the ground up to championing local nonprofits through design and storytelling.
Learn more about Alyssa’s inspiring work and what drives her passion for the Magnolia State in our latest Committee Member Spotlight.
Brett Rasmussen, MMNSF Board Member
We’re proud to spotlight longtime MMNS Foundation Board Member Brett Rasmussen, an accomplished engineer and dedicated advocate for energy efficiency and sustainability in Mississippi. With decades of experience in aerospace and automotive energy management - and a long list of prestigious awards to match - Brett brings deep expertise and passion to his service on the Board. His leadership continues to play a key role in supporting the Foundation’s mission of education, conservation, and scientific excellence.
Learn more about Brett’s impressive career and commitment to Mississippi’s future.