Ever stepped in the wrong spot and ended up soaked? Conservation biologist CJ Hillard has - thanks to a sneaky pond hole during frog surveys! From pond mishaps to protecting endangered species, his work is all about conservation with a splash of adventure.

From volunteer to vital team member, this high school senior is making waves - literally and figuratively - at MDWFP’s Mississippi Museum of Natural Science! Whether drenched in rain mid-kayak with a group of campers or helping keep the park clean and welcoming, this spotlighted staffer brings energy, curiosity, and a love of wildlife to everything he does. His journey proves you don’t have to wait until college to make a difference.

From exhibit graphics to owl encounters, Blake King brings creativity, humor, and heart to everything he touches at the Museum. As our new Exhibits Supervisor, Blake uses design to tell powerful stories, connect people with science, and bring fresh energy to our visual identity. Meet Blake and learn how he’s blending art and conservation in surprising (and sometimes hilarious) ways.

Meet Marinee Humphries, one of our all-star environmental specialists helping protect Mississippi’s wild side! Whether she’s wading through wetlands, diving into species data, or helping museum guests connect with conservation, Marinee brings energy, expertise, and a love for the outdoors to everything she does. From freshwater mussels to bumblebees, her work is all about discovery, impact, and hands-on adventure. Read on to learn how this former nursing student found her true calling in conservation!

With a background in studio art and psychology, she brings a creative touch to everything she doe! Her journey to the Museum? It all started with an opossum … Read more about Emma’s role and her favorite Museum moments in our latest Staff Spotlight!