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.

Ever stepped in the wrong spot and ended up soaked? Conservation biologist CJ Hillard has - thanks to a sneaky pond hole during frog surveys! From pond mishaps to protecting endangered species, his work is all about conservation with a splash of adventure.

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.

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.

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!

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!

Meet Judith Edele, the Museum’s go-to expert for facility rentals! Whether she’s coordinating an exhibit premiere party, ensuring a seamless gala, or spending the night at the Museum for a Scout Sleepover, she’s making magic happen behind the scenes. With a background in event planning, a master’s degree in Business and Organizational Leadership, and a lifelong love of nature, she’s passionate about creating memorable experiences for every guest who walks through our doors.

Read more about her journey and how she’s connecting people to conservation in unexpected ways in our latest Staff Spotlight!

Growing up in the Mississippi Delta, Morgan developed a deep love for the outdoors, hunting, and exploring nature. With a background in elementary education and nearly 15 years of teaching experience, she’s now bringing her passion for learning outside the classroom and into the Museum.

Get to know more about Morgan’s journey, her love for nature (and classic literature!), and the unexpected moments that make her job unforgettable in our latest Staff Spotlight!

Some educators teach in classrooms, but Morgan Taylor brings learning to life in the wildest way possible! As a Conservation Educator, Morgan spends her days caring for animals, leading hands-on programs, and making science fun for kids of all ages. Whether she’s introducing students to fascinating creatures, answering visitors' questions, or caring for animals, she approaches each day with humor and enthusiasm.

Growing up in the Mississippi Delta, Morgan developed a deep love for the outdoors, hunting, and exploring nature. With a background in elementary education and nearly 15 years of teaching experience, she’s now bringing her passion for learning outside the classroom and into the Museum.

Get to know more about Morgan’s journey, her love for nature (and classic literature!), and the unexpected moments that make her job unforgettable in our latest Staff Spotlight!

Meet Cary Spence, our Community Relations Director! With a background in hospitality and a lifelong love for the outdoors, Cary brings his passion for connecting people to the wonders of Mississippi’s natural world. From engaging visitors to promoting conservation, he’s all about making the Museum a welcoming, inspiring place. Learn more in our latest Staff Spotlight!

When it comes to rolling up her sleeves and diving into Mississippi’s wild side, Zoe Mabry, our Environmental Resources Technician, is always up for the adventure! Whether she’s setting nets for turtles, organizing the Museum’s natural history collection, or searching for critters on field surveys, Zoe brings passion and curiosity to everything she does.

Want to know more about Zoe’s journey, her hands-on work in the field, and her commitment to protecting the natural world? Check out her inspiring story in our latest Staff Spotlight blog post.