The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point College of Natural Resources (CNR) proudly recognized distinguished alumni, visionary leaders, and outstanding partners during its annual Celebration Evening at SentryWorld. The event brought together faculty, students, industry professionals, and supporters to celebrate those whose work continues to leave a lasting mark on natural resources, conservation, and education.
“These honorees remind us that meaningful progress is built by people who are willing to lead, serve, and invest in something bigger than themselves,” said Brian Sloss, Dean of UWSP CNR. “Their dedication has strengthened our college, our communities, and our natural resources. We are proud to celebrate their achievements and thankful for the path they continue to create for future generations.”
Heather Berklund, recipient of the 2026 CNR Outstanding Alumna Award, was honored for her remarkable leadership, pioneering spirit, and lifelong commitment to Wisconsin’s forests. A 2000 graduate of UW-Stevens Point with a Bachelor of Science in Forestry and a Soil Science Minor, Berklund now serves as Chief State Forester for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Division of Forestry. In 2020, she made history as the first woman appointed to the role. Over nearly three decades with the Wisconsin DNR, she has helped guide sustainable forestry efforts, strengthen wildland fire preparedness, support workforce growth, and build meaningful partnerships across the state. She has also remained closely connected to UWSP through advisory roles and collaborative initiatives. Her career reflects not only professional excellence but also a deep belief in service, stewardship, and creating opportunities for others.
Photo: Heather Berklund, a 2000 graduate of the UW-Stevens Point College of Natural Resources, was recognized as the recipient of the CNR Outstanding Alumna Award.
Tom German, recipient of the 2026 CNR Conservation Leader Award, was recognized for decades of thoughtful leadership and a profound impact on Wisconsin’s public lands. German recently retired as Executive Secretary of Wisconsin’s Board of Commissioners of Public Lands after 20 years of service. During that time, he oversaw more than $1 billion in trust assets benefiting public school libraries, municipalities, and school districts statewide. Just as importantly, he championed efforts to expand public access to forestland, reduce fragmentation, support sustainable timber markets, and improve long-term land stewardship. A strong supporter of UWSP CNR, German also helped create internship opportunities, strengthen forestry programming, and build partnerships that connected students to real-world conservation work. His influence reaches far beyond numbers and policy; it lives on in healthier landscapes, stronger communities, and new generations of leaders.
Photo: Tom German was recognized as the recipient of the UW-Stevens Point College of Natural Resources Conservation Leader Award.
Natural Resources Institute, UW-Madison Division of Extension, recipient of the 2026 CNR Outstanding Contributor Award, was recognized for its exceptional partnership and lasting impact on the College of Natural Resources. Through a long-standing relationship with UWSP, the institute has helped strengthen the people, programs, and systems that allow the college to thrive. Its support has sustained faculty, staff, and program leaders, preserved continuity across important initiatives, and provided the stability needed for long-term growth. Through respected programs such as the Extension Lakes Program, Center for Land Use Education, Center for Watershed Science and Education, Wisconsin Center for Wildlife, and Wisconsin Forestry Center, the institute delivers trusted expertise in forestry, water quality, land stewardship, and community resilience. By connecting research with real-world needs and creating valuable hands-on opportunities for students, the Natural Resources Institute continues to embody the Wisconsin Idea.
Photo: Recipients and presenters of the CNR Outstanding Contributor Award gather for a photo during the recognition ceremony. Pictured from left are CNR Dean Brian Sloss, Cathy Scheder, CNR Associate Dean for Outreach and Extension; Tricia Gorby, Natural Resources Institute Director; Patrick Robinson, Associate Dean of Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Community Development; and Brenda Lackey, CNR Associate Dean for Academic Affairs.
The 2026 Paper Industry Leader Award was presented to Spraying Systems Co. in recognition of outstanding industry leadership and extraordinary support of student learning. As the world’s leading manufacturer of spray nozzles, Spraying Systems Co. has become a valued partner to UWSP by providing essential components for pilot machine operations and ensuring equipment is installed and ready for use. Their support has greatly enhanced hands-on learning opportunities for students working with industry-level systems and technology. Beyond equipment, the company has generously shared its expertise through consultations and seminars tied to senior design projects, helping students better understand professional expectations and engineering practice. From precision nozzles to full turnkey systems, Spraying Systems Co. continues to invest in both innovation and the next generation of talent.
Photo: Representatives of Spraying Systems Co. accept recognition on behalf of the company during the UW-Stevens Point College of Natural Resources CNR Celebration Evening. Pictured from left are Roland Gong, Paper Science and Chemical Engineering Department Chair; Bernard Pyzdrowski; and Dylan Thomas.
