Mirae Guenther, research technician with the School of Natural Resources, received the fall 2019 SNR Staff Recognition Award. She was presented with the award Dec. 10 during the holiday party and potluck in Hardin Hall.
“This past year, Mirae has taken on the additional role of mentoring undergraduate researchers in the lab and she has been exceptional in that role,” wrote her nominators. “She led a group of undergraduate students in the field this summer, providing logistical and scientific support for each of their projects on the Niobrara River.
“But more importantly, she was a steady force of calm and encouragement as each student battled different challenges: lost experiments, thawed samples, high waters, hot temperatures and long days. The success of the summer’s work is due in large part to Mirae’s exceptional dedication.”
Guenther started with the SNR in June 2018 and has steadily worked to improve the shared laboratory space for professors Jessica Corman and Steve Thomas. She’s implemented organizational strategies and processes that have ensured good use of space and good communication among lab members.
"Every time one of us walks into the lab, we notice a new improvement that Mirae has made," they wrote.
The SNR Staff Recognition Award, designed to recognize the positive contributions of SNR staff, was first given out in 2006 to Susan Vosler, the graduate student coordinator at that time. The award was $100 until December 2015 when it was changed to $350.
Since 2006, has been awarded to 34 individuals. Criteria for the award include a staff member's exception service and dedication to SNR; their creativity and innovation on the job; and their ability to interact with faculty, staff, students and clientele. The recipient(s) receive a plaque and $350 stipend.
Natural Resources