Museum Staff Spotlight: Zack Schemmel

mississippi museum of natural science staff spotlight

If you’ve played at the new LeFleur’s Bluff Playground, then you’ve likely met Zack! He’s an important part of ensuring that this 30,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art playground runs smoothly. Read on to get to know Zack better.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED FOR THE MUSEUM?  

I have worked for the museum for a little over 3 years. I love the people I work with and when I was offered a full-time position I couldn’t turn it down.

WHAT’S YOUR WORKDAY LIKE?

A typical workday for me looks like cleaning and maintaining the park as well as ensuring that the playground is staffed. 

ANY FUNNY WORK STORIES?

When I started my job in May 2019, my coworker called me asking if we had lions, dolphins, and whales, and kept me going until I looked up and saw her laughing hysterically at me from across the room!

TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND AND EDUCATION

I am a 2019 graduate of Belhaven University as well as a firefighter/EMT. I played football throughout college and now am a football referee. 

HOW DOES YOUR JOB CONTRIBUTE TO CONSERVATION & EDUCATION?

The new LeFleur’s Bluff Playground encourages kids to get outside to play in nature rather than to stay inside. Children who play and learn in nature are more physically active, more engaged in learning, and more emotionally healthy.

ANY ADVICE FOR A STUDENT INTERESTED IN A BIOLOGY OR MUSEUM CAREER?

If you want a biology career you need to volunteer! Get your name out there and show you are an asset and willing to learn and garner experience! 


lefleurs bluff playground

The LeFleur’s Bluff Playground is separated into different play areas based on age, for children ages 6 months to 12 years old. There are 80 play activities, 73 of which are inclusive to children with accessibility needs.