Category: Alumni Stories

CNR Honors Key Contributors

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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 is the 2025-2026 CNR Alumna award recipient

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.

Five award recipients and presenters stand together during the CNR Outstanding Contributor Award recognition ceremony. 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.

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.

Life After Point: CNR Alumni News and Updates

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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.

UWSP Alum Eli Halverson stands outdoors, holding a shovel with a large clump of soil on the blade.
Eli Halverson, a UW-Stevens Point CNR Conservation and Community Planning graduate.

Leslie Petrie (B.S. Paper Science and Engineering ’89), Vice President of Global Environment, Health, and Safety at International Paper, has been elected to the TAPPI Board of Directors. Petrie has over 30 years of experience with the company, spanning manufacturing, conversion, and leadership roles. She currently leads its EHS Council and serves on the Diversity and Inclusion Council. In 2018, she received the NAM STEP Ahead Award recognizing women in STEM leadership, and she also serves on the board of the UWSP Paper Science Foundation.

Eli Halverson (B.S. Conservation and Community Planning ’22) is an agricultural field specialist for the Sand County Foundation in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He works with agricultural stakeholders in the Midwest and beyond to conduct research, facilitate conservation, and promote ethical land stewardship.

Eric Michel (B.S. Wildlife Ecology and Management ’09) has been named assistant professor and coordinator of the Taylor Chair in Applied Big Game Research and Instruction at Mississippi State University. He also serves as co-director of the MSU Deer Lab, where he advances applied deer research and mentors future wildlife professionals. An MSU Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture alum originally from Wisconsin, Michel specializes in the ecology and management of white-tailed deer. He earned his B.S. from the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point and his M.S. and Ph.D. from Mississippi State University, where he studied deer under the guidance of Drs. Steve Demarais and Bronson Strickland. Michel previously served as a postdoctoral research associate at South Dakota State University and as an ungulate research scientist with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. At MSU, he continues to support biologists and land managers while guiding the next generation of wildlife professionals.

UW-Stevens Point alumni Alejandra, Lindsey and Alex are putting the skills they learned at UWSP to work in Dane County’s waste and renewables programs.
UW-Stevens Point alumni Alejandra, Lindsey and Alex are putting the skills they learned at UWSP to work in Dane County’s waste and renewables programs.

Jillian Hesse (B.S. Wildlife Ecology and Management ’24) was recently hired as a full-time animal care specialist at Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary in Ramah, New Mexico.

Three UW-Stevens Point alumni—Alejandra Viso (B.S. Fisheries and Water Resources – Water Resources ’17), Lindsey Carlson (B.S. Soil and Waste Resources – Waste Management ’18), and Alex Thomas (B.S. Soil and Waste Resources ’12, M.S. Natural Resource ’17) —are making their mark at Dane County Waste and Renewables. Alejandra manages landfill operations, Lindsey operates a renewable natural gas facility, and Alex develops carbon offset projects. Learn more.

Heidi Putnam (B.S. Natural Resource Planning ’20) is an environmental planner at Snyder & Associates in Madison, Wisconsin. She was recently honored with the inaugural Commitment to Partnership Award from UniverCity Alliance for her dedication to community involvement.

Scott Storms (B.S. Wildlife Ecology and Management ’01) serves as a water resources supervisor for the Idaho Department of Natural Resources.

Jon Mayer (B.S. Fisheries and Water Resources ’21) is a public health sanitarian for Public Health Madison and Dane County. He works to ensure the safety and compliance of private wells and on-site wastewater treatment systems, conducting inspections, verifying soil tests, and guiding residents and contractors on state and county regulations.

In Memoriam

Honoring the lives and legacies of CNR alumni and supporters who have passed.

Ann Agnew, a longtime Tomahawk resident and dedicated supporter of Treehaven, passed away after decades of community involvement and environmental stewardship. Agnew moved to the Northwoods in 1978 with her husband, Bob, where they built both a home and the Tomahawk Ace Hardware Store, which they operated until 1993. Her connection to Treehaven began in 1982 at its grand opening, and in 1995, she became a founding member of the Friends of Treehaven, later serving on the Treehaven Board of Advisors. Agnew played a key role in establishing the Treehaven Endowment, which continues to fund student research, renewable energy projects, gardens, and scholarships. She also established the Agnew Leadership Scholarship in 2004. She later created the Ann Agnew Environmental Leadership Program at Tomahawk High School, which enables students to develop leadership skills and educate their community about natural resources. Through her vision and generosity, Agnew left a lasting legacy that continues to benefit UW-Stevens Point students, local youth, and the Tomahawk community.

Daniel F. Connolly, of Green Bay, passed away unexpectedly on July 7, 2025, after a brief battle with cancer. A UW-Stevens Point College of Natural Resources alum, Dan pursued a degree in Natural Resource Management and Soil and Water Conservation, reflecting his lifelong passion for the outdoors and conservation. An Eagle Scout and lifelong advocate for youth development, he most recently served as Executive Director of the Voyageur District of the Boy Scouts of America Bay-Lakes Council, a role he considered a dream job. Known for his warmth, inclusivity, and boundless energy, Dan inspired those around him to engage with nature and their communities. From his first camping trip at five months old to his many adventures in Wisconsin’s woods and lakes, Dan’s love of the outdoors was central to his life and his legacy.

Adam Zirbel, of Plymouth, Wisconsin, passed away unexpectedly on September 22, 2025. A UW-Stevens Point College of Natural Resources alum (B.S., Forest Management, 2001), Adam dedicated 24 years to forestry and wildland firefighting, most recently serving as Forester-Senior of the Kettle Moraine State Forest–Northern Unit. Born in Madison, he was known for his humor, love of the outdoors, and devotion to his family, including his wife Beth and their three children, Lincoln, Lennex, and Stormy. Adam’s passion for natural resources and his commitment to protecting Wisconsin’s forests left a lasting impact on the communities and landscapes he served.

Nominate an Outstanding UW-Stevens Point CNR Alum

Every year, we shine a spotlight on one of our outstanding alumni. These are individuals who go above and beyond in their careers, inspire others, lead with purpose, give back generously, or break new ground in their field.

This year, we are reaching out to all of you to help us celebrate these remarkable people. Think of a CNR alum who has made a difference, whether as a quiet changemaker, a bold innovator, or anything in between, and share their story with us by submitting a nomination.

Nominations are due the second Friday in November by midnight. Award recipients will be contacted in February, and honorees will be recognized at the CNR Celebration Evening on the third Friday in April at SentryWorld.

Join us in honoring the alumni who continue to make a lasting impact.

Submit your nomination today.

Heather Berklund, the 2026 CNR Outstanding Alum Award Recipient.

Have a general alumni update to share? We would love to hear from you! Email us at cnr@uwsp.edu.

From Campus to Career: How Three UW-Stevens Point Alumni Found Their Path in Waste and Renewables

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When you are in high school, it can feel like everyone else has their future figured out. The truth? Most students explore, change direction, and discover new passions along the way.

Just ask Alejandra, Lindsey, and Alex, three University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point alumni who now work for Dane County Waste and Renewables. Their stories show that you don’t need a perfect plan. What matters is being curious, saying yes to opportunities, and finding a career that makes an impact.

Alejandra, a UWSP alum, works as a solid waste engineer.
Alejandra, a solid waste engineer for Dane County, oversees landfill operations and connects with the community through sustainability outreach.

Alejandra: Turning Curiosity into Community Impact

Alejandra always cared about the environment but wasn’t sure how to make it her career. She started college studying biology and chemistry, but a report predicting clean drinking water could become one of the scarcest resources by 2050 changed everything.

“That really stuck with me,” she said. “The more I learned about water management—treatment, protection, and the way it impacts communities, the more I knew this was the field for me.”

At UW-Stevens Point, she found the best of both worlds: a strong biology program and one of the nation’s top natural resources programs. After graduation, she managed wastewater projects for a beverage company but longed for something with more environmental impact.

When a position opened at Dane County Waste and Renewables, she took the leap.

Now a solid waste engineer, Alejandra manages landfill operations and projects like the county’s new Sustainability Campus. She also gets to connect with community members through outreach.

“My friends are probably tired of me talking about trash,” she said. “But it affects everyone, every day. I love knowing the work I do helps people rethink their own choices and creates a broader impact.”

Lindsey, a UWSP alum, works as a biogas specialist.
Lindsey, a biogas specialist at Dane County Waste and Renewables, helps operate a renewable natural gas facility that converts landfill gas into vehicle fuel.

Lindsey: From the Field to the Biogas Plant

Lindsey’s path began at UW-Madison, where an environmental science course made her realize just how much human choices shape the planet. Wanting more hands-on experience, she joined WisCorps, spending a semester restoring Wisconsin parks.

“Being outside, directly stewarding our natural resources, it was so powerful,” she said. “That’s when I knew I needed a degree with real-world applications.”

She transferred to UW-Stevens Point, joined the Waste Management Society and attended conferences that led to her first internship. Alongside her service in the Wisconsin Army National Guard, those experiences gave her technical skills and resilience.

Today she’s a biogas specialist at Dane County Waste and Renewables. She helps operate a renewable natural gas facility that turns landfill gas into vehicle fuel. Her job ranges from analyzing data to managing contracts and tracking millions of dollars in equipment.

“Waste management may not sound glamorous, but it’s never going away,” Lindsey said. “It’s essential work, and it’s incredibly fulfilling. Everything we do contributes to a healthier, more sustainable future.”

Alex works as a carbon offset manager.
As carbon offset manager at Dane County Waste and Renewables, Alex splits his time between fieldwork at the landfill and managing projects that turn carbon dioxide into usable products.

Alex: Bringing Numbers to Life in Sustainability

For Alex, waste management stood out because of its universal relevance.

“It’s something everyone is involved with, but not many people want to work in,” he said. “That challenge, and the potential to make an impact, sparked my interest.”

Through UW-Stevens Point, Alex gained hands-on experience in clubs, fieldwork and internships. After finishing graduate school, he joined Dane County Waste and Renewables as a carbon offset manager.

He now tracks the department’s carbon footprint and supports projects like adding carbon separation equipment to the gas plant. The goal: turning carbon dioxide into a usable product instead of releasing it into the atmosphere.

“No two days look the same,” he said. “Some days I’m out at the landfill, other days I’m working through contracts or reviewing data. What excites me most is that the work we do today creates solutions for tomorrow.”

Finding Your Own Path

Alejandra, Lindsey, and Alex all took different routes, but they agree on one thing: UW-Stevens Point gave them the tools to succeed by combining strong academics with real-world experience.

Whether through internships, student organizations, or fieldwork, they left campus with the skills and confidence to pursue careers that matter.

Their advice to high school students? Stay curious, get involved, and don’t worry if your path takes a few turns.

“The important part,” Alejandra said, “is finding work that excites you and contributes to something bigger.”

And one last tip, they agreed: visit a landfill.

“It changes the way you see waste,” Lindsey said. “And it changes the way you see the impact you can make.”

Life After Point: CNR Alumni News and Updates

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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 stands outdoors in front of a controlled burn.
Jacob Tepsa, UWSP alumnus, is 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.

Patrick Arndt (M.S. Natural Resources ’95) was awarded the 2025 Gibbs Award from the Wisconsin Society of Science Teachers for his outstanding life-long work with Science Education in Wisconsin. Learn more about Patrick and why he was honored for this award.

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.

UW-Stevens Point CNR Honors Leaders in Conservation and Industry

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The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point College of Natural Resources has announced the recipients of its annual awards for 2024–25. The awards recognize outstanding individuals and organizations for their contributions to natural resources education, industry innovation, and environmental conservation.

Dr. Mark Drew stands behind an immobilized moose in a snowy field.
Dr. Mark Drew is the 2024-25 CNR Outstanding Alumnus Award Recipient for the UWSP College of Natural Resources.

Dr. Mark Drew was awarded the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point College of Natural Resources Outstanding Alumnus Award in recognition of his distinguished career and contributions to wildlife. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Wildlife from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point in 1980. As a student at UW-Stevens Point, he received the Chancellor’s Leadership Award and was recognized as the Outstanding Wildlife Student in 1980. He then pursued a master’s degree in Zoology from the University of Alberta, graduating in 1984. In 1987, he obtained his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Minnesota and completed a zoo and wildlife medicine residency at the University of California in 1991. He has been a diplomate of the American College of Zoological Medicine since 1992. For over 25 years, Mark has been teaching for SafeCapture International, which pioneered chemical immobilization courses for wildlife and animal control personnel, significantly increasing veterinarians’ engagement in wildlife care.

He leads the Safe Capture program at the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Academy and teaches a Safe Capture class at UW-Stevens Point every fall. Additionally, he helped revise the 250-page training manual currently used in the course. Mark has previous experience as a wildlife veterinarian for California and Idaho and has held academic positions at UC Davis and Texas A&M. He is a past president of the American College of Zoological Medicine and the American Association of Wildlife Veterinarians. Mark has authored over 45 peer-reviewed publications and six book chapters. A dedicated supporter of UW-Stevens Point students and faculty, Drew has donated a complete journal collection to the Wisconsin Center for Wildlife and frequently returns to campus to share new volumes and consult with students.

Don and Kelly Guay, Karyn Biasca, and Roland Gong all smile as Don and Kelly hold the Paper Industry Leadership Award.
Don and Kelly Guay (center) accept the Paper Industry Leadership Award on behalf of Ahlstrom Ohj presented by Roland Gong (right) and Karyn Biasca (left).

The Paper Industry Leadership Award has been awarded to Ahlstrom Oyj, a global leader in fiber-based specialty materials headquartered in Helsinki, Finland. There are ten manufacturing plants in the U.S., four of which are located in Wisconsin.  Ahlstrom produces specialty materials for filtration, packaging, and protective applications. In 2024, the company reported global revenue of €3 billion.  

Ahlstrom is recognized for its sustainability initiatives, which include promoting fiber-based alternatives to fossil fuel products and addressing the global need for clean air and water. The company is a strong partner to UW-Stevens Point, supporting student learning through internships, classroom presentations, field trips, and career placements.

The Conservation Leader Award has been presented to Wisconsin Healthy Grown, an initiative that is nearly 30 years in the making, created by the Wisconsin Potato and Vegetable Growers Association in collaboration with the Universities of Wisconsin, the International Crane Foundation and the World Wildlife Fund. This initiative supports farmers who integrate conservation practices into their operations through habitat restoration and sustainable land management.

In partnership with UW-Stevens Point, Healthy Grown annually sponsors an ecosystem restoration intern who contributes to on-farm restoration projects and conducts independent research. Past student projects have focused on topics such as neotropical bird habitat usage, prairie carbon storage, and the benefits of wetland ecosystems.

This year, the CNR Outstanding Contributor Award is presented to William Kolodziej, a UW-Stevens Point CNR alumnus who has made exceptional contributions to the college over many years. Kolodziej has provided hands-on instruction and practical experiences in various courses, including private on-site wastewater treatment systems, agronomy, and grazing, as well as the Sustainable Forestry Education managed grazing field trip. He has also played a key role in preparing students for the 2025 National Soil Judging Contest. His dedication, expertise, and support have left a lasting impact on both students and faculty.

“These honorees exemplify the mission and values of the College of Natural Resources,” said Brian Sloss, Dean of the college. “They are role models in their fields, mentors to our students, and champions of the environment. We proudly recognize their achievements and strong ties to our university.”

The awards were formally presented at the college’s annual spring banquets.