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.

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.

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.

Courtney Wood, MMNSF Board Member

We’re thrilled to shine a spotlight on Courtney Wood, a valued member of the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science Foundation Board of Directors since 2024! Courtney brings her expertise in wealth management, leadership in the business community, and passion for education and family engagement to our Foundation. A recognized leader and dedicated community volunteer, she’s also a big fan of our aquarium hall - a must-see on every visit! Get to know Courtney in our latest Board Member Spotlight.

Learn more about Courtney and how she’s already making a difference in our latest blog post.