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Sam Butz, Exhibit Specialist
Have you ever wondered what goes into creating the exhibits that bring science and nature to life at the Museum?
Meet Sam Butz, our Exhibit Specialist. Since joining the Museum team earlier this year, Sam has been working behind the scenes to transform ideas into engaging, hands-on experiences for visitors of all ages.
With a background in anthropology and a passion for building, problem-solving, and the outdoors, Sam brings a unique perspective to exhibit development. Whether he's designing graphics, installing exhibit components, or finding creative ways to tell Mississippi's natural science stories, his work helps visitors connect with the people, places, and wildlife that make our state so special.
Learn more about Sam and the fascinating work that goes into creating Museum experiences!
Maeve Ireland, Customer Service Representative
If you've attended a summer camp, animal program, or special event at the Museum this summer, there's a good chance you've met Shelby Bearden. Since joining the Museum team in May 2026, Shelby has brought enthusiasm, curiosity, and a passion for Mississippi's wildlife to everything she does.
A lifelong outdoor enthusiast and proud Mississippian, Shelby loves helping visitors discover the amazing animals that call our state home. Whether she's introducing guests to an alligator, sharing fascinating facts about native species, or helping someone overcome their fear of snakes, she believes that creating meaningful connections with wildlife is one of the most powerful ways to inspire conservation.
Get to know Shelby and learn why she thinks every great conservation journey begins with curiosity.
Shelby Bearden, Conservation Educator
If you've attended a summer camp, animal program, or special event at the Museum this summer, there's a good chance you've met Shelby Bearden. Since joining the Museum team in May 2026, Shelby has brought enthusiasm, curiosity, and a passion for Mississippi's wildlife to everything she does.
A lifelong outdoor enthusiast and proud Mississippian, Shelby loves helping visitors discover the amazing animals that call our state home. Whether she's introducing guests to an alligator, sharing fascinating facts about native species, or helping someone overcome their fear of snakes, she believes that creating meaningful connections with wildlife is one of the most powerful ways to inspire conservation.
Get to know Shelby and learn why she thinks every great conservation journey begins with curiosity.
A Legacy of Conservation Honoring Magalen Ohrstrom Bryant’s Enduring Impact
The Mississippi Museum of Natural Science Foundation recently received a generous gift from Purvis Grange Foundation, Inc. in memory of Magalen “Maggie” Ohrstrom Bryant - a lifelong conservationist, philanthropist, educator, and cherished friend of the Museum.
Known for turning bold ideas into lasting impact, Maggie dedicated her life to connecting people with nature and inspiring others to protect it. Through her leadership at Tara Wildlife, she championed conservation, outdoor education, and land stewardship long before they became mainstream priorities.