Becky Young, doctoral student and research assistant, has been named the University of Nebraska State Museum's Volunteer of the Year.
"Volunteering at the museum has been a really rewarding experience," Young said. "I really enjoy talking to and interacting with museum visitors, especially the children, and helping them discover new and interesting aspects in science and natural history, and then watching their excitement and enthusiasm for that subject blossom and grow."
Sara Feit, NU State Museum volunteer coordinator, said that Young has "thrown herself" into the volunteer program at Morrill Hall and that she attended almost all of the museum's outreach events.
"Throughout the year, as I sent out request after request for volunteers, her enthusiasm and seemingly endless supply of energy were a source of constant support for our program," Feit said.
Young said she's honored by the award and grateful for the museum's support.
"I never really noticed how much time I had spent volunteering with the museum, especially when the events and activities are so much fun," Young said. "So, it's wonderful to know that the time I do put in is noticed and appreciated, and that I'm making an impact on children and in the community."
— Mekita Rivas, Natural Resources