We are immensely proud of our CEO, Theresa Sowry, for being honoured with the prestigious Distinguished Service Award from Michigan State University (MSU) on 1 March 2024, in recognition of her exceptional contributions to conservation. Her visionary approach to inclusive and holistic conservation practices, along with her innovative programs and initiatives at the SAWC, has not only earned her acclaim but has also served as an inspiration to a new generation of conservationists. The Distinguished Service Award symbolizes the honour bestowed upon Theresa for her tireless commitment and significant impact on the conservation sector.
More recently the College was also selected to receive the 2024 H. Paul Roberts Award for Distinguished Service in Education Abroad from the MSU College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR). This award is in recognition of the College’s exceptional achievements and success in Education Abroad. The College will receive its award in absentia at the CANR Faculty and Staff Award reception on May 2, 2024.
The awards programme includes formal recognition of the following CANR awards: Teaching Awards, Outstanding Academic Advisor and the Staff Awards including the Staff Dean’s Award of Distinction, Excellence in Research Performance and Support, Early Achievement, Spirit of CANR, and the Global Scholars Award in Research and in Extension as well as the CANR You Belong Here Champion Awards.
In congratulating the College, Jim Scheider Director, Glassen Scholars Programme, Undergraduate Programme Coordinator and Senior Specialist – Advisor & Certified Wildlife Biologist ® Michigan State University – Department of Fisheries and Wildlife said: “Thank you all again for everything you do for African conservation, and have done to support me, our students, and the CANR and MSU communities to experience this amazing region of the world and help us learn, understand and educate others on what’s truly happening in Africa.”
“MSU’s relationship with the College started back in 2003, with Fanie and Lesley Greyling with Lesley being an integral part of our initial relationship. I’m absolutely thrilled that the SAWC was finally selected and recognized with this CANR award! I knew Paul Roberts before he retired from MSU. He was a strong supporter of CANR’s international and study abroad activities and would be extremely pleased with the relationship that we’ve built,” he added.