Behind many of UW-Stevens Point’s most successful outreach efforts is someone whose work quietly connects people, ideas, and communities. For nearly three decades, Amy Kowalski, communications specialist with Extension Lakes, a statewide partnership between the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point College of Natural Resources and the University of Wisconsin–Madison Division of Extension, has transformed scientific knowledge into meaningful public engagement while building partnerships that extend far beyond campus. In recognition of her lasting commitment to service, collaboration, and environmental stewardship, Kowalski received the 2026 UW-Stevens Point Academic Staff Spirit of Community Service Award.
Throughout her 29-year career, Kowalski has become a driving force behind environmental education and outreach across Wisconsin. Through Extension Lakes, she has developed hundreds of educational publications and curated more than 500 videos supporting programs including the Citizen Lake Monitoring Network, Clean Boats, Clean Waters, and Healthy Lakes & Rivers. By translating complex scientific information into engaging, accessible resources, she has helped educators, volunteers, agency staff, and lake organizations make informed decisions that strengthen the stewardship of Wisconsin’s lakes and rivers.
Kowalski’s impact is equally evident in the partnerships she has cultivated throughout the university and across the state. She serves as a key communications leader for the Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Partnership, coordinating outreach among university, nonprofit, and state agency partners while helping organize the annual Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention. She has also collaborated across the UW System on The Flow Project, including helping lead a traveling art exhibit that invited hundreds of participants to explore the connections between water, art, and community. On campus, her work with the Faculty Staff Gender Sexuality Alliance reflects her commitment to fostering an inclusive and welcoming university community.
Service has remained a defining characteristic of Kowalski’s career beyond her professional responsibilities. She serves on the boards of Growing Collective and Black Hawk Folk Society, lending her communication expertise and collaborative leadership to strengthen both organizations. She also volunteers as a foster for Fetch Foster and Rescue, providing care for rescue dogs while helping connect them with families throughout Wisconsin.
Those who work alongside Kowalski describe her as someone who consistently elevates every project and every team. Known affectionately by colleagues as “The Coolifier,” she is recognized for her creativity, reliability, and ability to bring people together around a common purpose. Erin McFarlane, statewide Clean Boats, Clean Waters educator with Extension Lakes, wrote, “Projects involving Amy always result in products that are richer, cooler, and more impactful than imagined.”
Kowalski’s contributions reflect the spirit of the award through her dedication to environmental, intellectual, and social well-being. Whether mentoring colleagues, supporting nonprofit organizations, preserving institutional knowledge, or creating educational resources that inspire lifelong stewardship, she demonstrates how thoughtful communication and genuine collaboration can strengthen communities across Wisconsin.
“Amy represents the very best of the College of Natural Resources and UW-Stevens Point,” said Brian Sloss, dean of the College of Natural Resources. “She strengthens our institution, elevates those around her, and builds connections that extend far beyond campus.”