July 2025 Life After Point: CNR Alumni News and Updates
Alumni Highlights
Celebrating the accomplishments and impact of CNR alumni in their careers, communities, and beyond. If you have a highlight to share, email us at cnr@uwsp.edu.
Jacob Tepsa supporting fire operations in Idaho while advancing UAS work and research at the University of Montana FireCenter.
- Jacob Tepsa (B.S. Wildlife Ecology ’24) is currently wrapping up a fire assignment in Idaho, where he’s been supporting dispatch operations. He recently confirmed his master’s committee and will be conducting a qualitative analysis of Montana landowners’ land management needs to support the state’s new prescribed burn manager program, all while continuing his full-time role at the University of Montana’s FireCenter. Jacob also received a promotion and is now coordinating many of the FireCenter’s UAS operations. He’s been focused on expanding hands-on prescribed fire opportunities for students, setting up a newly acquired aerial ignition UAS platform, and developing tools for private landowners. His work continues to build vital partnerships and enhance workforce development in the fire management field. Learn more about his role at the University of Montana.
- Riley Hubanks, a May 2025 Natural Resource Planning graduate from UW-Stevens Point, has joined the North Central Conservancy Trust team as Outreach and Development Coordinator. Originally from Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, Riley is passionate about conservation and excited to educate the public while gaining hands-on experience in land conservation. Learn More about her role and NCCT.
- UW-Stevens Point alumnus Joel Gebhard, now a soil scientist with the Natural Resources Conservation Service, played a key role in organizing this year’s National Collegiate Soil Judging Contest, hosted by UWSP. Quoted in this feature article covering the event, Joel shared insights into soil techniques that enhance farming practices.
- Governor Tony Evers appointed UW-Stevens Point alumnus Jeff Hastings to the Wisconsin Natural Resources Board. Hastings, a leader in conservation and a longtime project manager with Trout Unlimited’s Driftless Area Restoration Effort, brings decades of experience to the role. He holds degrees in wildlife management and biology from UWSP. Learn more.
In Memoriam
Honoring the lives and legacies of CNR alumni who have passed.
- On June 2, 2025, the Grassroots Wildlife Firefighters remembered Tim Hart, a UW-Stevens Point alumnus who served as a smokejumper, hotshot, and wildland firefighter. Tim lost his life four years ago from injuries sustained while responding to the Eicks Fire in New Mexico. Tim served over 16 years in wildland fire, including roles on several hotshot crews and as a squad leader with the West Yellowstone Smokejumpers. Known for his unwavering dedication, infectious spirit, and love for service, Tim was posthumously honored on the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Roll of Honor in 2022. His legacy lives on through the advocacy of his wife, Michelle, whose tireless efforts continue to elevate the voices and well-being of wildland firefighters nationwide.
- James Louis Arndt (B.S. Soil Science ’80), age 73, passed away on May 2, 2025, in Bloomington, MN. A key collaborator in foundational hydrology research on depressional wetlands, his work is closely tied to the legacy of Dr. Curtis Richardson. Jim earned his Ph.D. in Soil Science and dedicated his career to advancing wetland science.
- Kevin Daw, a UW-Stevens Point alumnus and lifelong steward of the land, passed away on June 15, 2025, in Duluth, MN. A dedicated Natural Resource Soil Conservationist with the USDA, Kevin spent his career helping farmers and landowners across Minnesota protect soil, wildlife, and waterways. His love for the outdoors and Lake Superior shaped both his life and legacy.
Have an alumni update to share? We would love to hear from you! Email us at cnr@uwsp.edu.