Shelby Bearden, Conservation Educator

MUSEUM STAFF SPOTLIGHT

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.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED FOR MDWFP’S MISSISSIPPI MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE?

I’ve been with the museum since May 1, 2026, but I’ve worked for the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks for about three years in another department before joining the museum.

WHAT’S YOUR WORKDAY LIKE?

Every morning starts by checking on our education animals and preparing for the day’s programs, summer camps, or team meetings.

From there, every day is a little different.

I spend most of my time helping wherever I’m needed which could be setting up for an event, assisting with library or animal programs, or even practicing mini creature features for museum guests.

There’s always something happening that you can be apart of.

ANY FUNNY WORK STORIES?

Before I started at the museum, I was very nervous about handling snakes.

On my very first day, I helped with a reptile program for a group of third graders. I tried my best to act confident, but third graders can be a tough crowd!

The moment our corn snake, Maizey, brushed against my arm, I jumped. I immediately heard laughter from the front row followed by, "Haha, she flinched!"

Needless to say, I was busted, but I have gotten better with snakes and even have one as a pet now.

TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND AND EDUCATION

I’m a homegrown Mississippian, and I’ve always loved spending time outdoors.

I was introduced to deer hunting at around five years old. I also loved watching Animal Planet and Discovery Channel, where I could learn about wildlife from all over the world. It only seemed natural that I would eventually build a career around animals.

I earned my bachelor's degree in biology and chemistry at the University of Southern Mississippi, and I am currently working toward a master’s degree in Conservation Education at Mississippi State University.

Outside of work and school, I enjoy traveling and spending time with my husband and our dog, Nova. You can also usually find me preparing for my next adventure, reading a good book or painting around the house in my free time.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS CAREER?

Wildlife is just a part of who I am and what I love.

I can't picture my life without animals and nature in it. I've always been fascinated by the natural world and genuinely enjoy the outdoors. This career just felt like the right fit.

I love that this job allows me to serve my community while helping people connect with wildlife and nature. I truly believe more people would appreciate and maybe even love our wildlife resources if they had the opportunity to learn about them and interact with them in positive ways.

One of the best parts of my job is watching someone's perspective change. There's nothing quite like seeing a family meet an alligator or snake for the first time. Those moments remind me why conservation education is so important and make this work incredibly rewarding.

HOW DOES YOUR JOB CONTRIBUTE TO CONSERVATION?

Conservation starts with connection.

Many people go through their daily lives without noticing the wildlife around them or maybe they only notice it when it becomes a problem, like an alligator in a swimming pool or a snake in the house.

At the museum, we have the opportunity to introduce people to these animals in a safe, positive environment. That experience can completely change how someone thinks about wildlife.

When people see these animals up close, they begin to understand that they are not only fascinating but also an important part of Mississippi's natural world.

Building that connection is one of the most powerful ways we can inspire conservation.

ANY ADVICE FOR A STUDENT INTERESTED IN A BIOLOGY OR MUSEUM CAREER?

Stay connected with organizations like ours.

Careers in biology, museums, and conservation can be competitive, and sometimes you have to be willing to relocate or wait for the right opportunity. Be patient, volunteer when you can, and don't be afraid to help with tasks outside your job description.

Passion, curiosity, and a willingness to learn will take you much farther than you might expect, and those qualities are what help build a successful career in conservation.