Research/Advisory Service
The Outstanding Employee awards are chosen by nominations received by the Awards Committee from all faculty, staff, and students at VIMS. They are awarded in the categories of Facilities/Safety/Trades, Research and Advisory Service, Technical Support, and Administrative Support.
The recipient of the 2012 Outstanding Employee in Research and Advisory Service is Ms. Sarah McGuire.
Sarah’s expertise, energy, and dedication to sharing her love of the marine environment have greatly enhanced VIMS’ efforts to fulfill its mission. Many people’s first impression of the Institute happens at one of Sarah’s programs, including several she has developed herself. These are “Chesapeake Studies” where local 7th graders receive classroom instruction integrated with field experiences, the ever-popular VIMS Summer Camps for elementary and middle school students, and our family-oriented Discovery Labs.
Beyond VIMS and our local communities, Sarah’s influence extends through the Chesapeake Bay region and around the country. This past year, she completed both a Market Analysis and Needs Assessment for K-12 Environmental Education within the Hampton Roads region, and has served as Virginia’s representative and more recently as President-elect for the Mid-Atlantic Marine Education Association. As an educator within NOAA’s National Estuarine Research Reserve System, she is part of a nationwide network of professional educators from numerous other NOAA offices. Her efforts at the National level include support for the development and implementation of NOAA’s “Estuaries 101” curriculum and “Teachers on the Estuary” program.
Congratulations, Sarah, you are most deserving of this recognition!