CELEBRATING CNR ACHIEVEMENT

Check out the accomplishments of students, faculty, staff, and friends of the college within the College of Natural Resources at UW-Stevens Point! We’re all about recognizing our hard work, leadership, and big wins. From top grades to making a difference in the field, these awards highlight the dedication and passion that make our students, faculty, and staff stand out.

CNR Student Honors and Awards

The College of Natural Resources at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point proudly celebrates student excellence through two distinguished honors: the Dean’s List and the Outstanding Student Awards. Both reflect the hard work, passion, and commitment that define our CNR community.

CNR Dean’s List

Each semester, the Dean of the College of Natural Resources at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point proudly recognizes the exceptional achievements of students through the Dean’s List. This honor is awarded to students who demonstrate outstanding academic dedication, earning a GPA of 3.50 or higher while pursuing majors within the CNR as a full-time undergraduate student. Those who achieve a perfect 4.0 GPA are highlighted with an asterisk (*). This list celebrates the hard work, commitment, and passion our students bring to their studies every semester. Please note that students who have chosen to keep their information private are not included.

CNR Outstanding Student Awards

Each year, our Outstanding Student Awards honor exceptional academic achievements, leadership, and community contributions by students who go above and beyond. Designed to celebrate the brightest talents and future leaders, these prestigious awards are a testament to hard work, dedication, and innovation. By recognizing outstanding individuals across various disciplines, we aim to inspire and empower students to reach new heights.

CNR Excellence Awards: Honoring Outstanding Faculty, Staff, and External Contributors

The CNR Excellence Awards celebrate the remarkable achievements and contributions of outstanding faculty, dedicated staff, and exceptional external partners who embody excellence in their fields. These awards recognize individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary commitment, innovation, and impact within the College of Natural Resources and beyond. Join us in honoring the talent and dedication that drive our college’s success and inspire our community.

Honoring Exceptional Alumni

Below is a list of alumni from the College of Natural Resources who have been honored with prestigious alumni awards at both the college and university levels. These individuals have been recognized for their outstanding contributions to their fields and their commitment to environmental stewardship. Please note: this list is a snapshot of award recipients from the past 20 years and does not include all alumni honorees.

Each year, we honor one outstanding alum who exemplifies leadership, innovation, and service. Do you know someone making a meaningful impact in their field or community? Submit your nomination to recognize their achievements and share their story with us. Nominations are due annually by the second Friday in November.

College of Natural Resources Alumni Award Recipients

• Heather Berklund, 2026 CNR Outstanding Alumna
• Mark Drew, 2025 CNR Outstanding Alumnus
• Rebecca Barnard, 2024 CNR Outstanding Alumna
• Parker Bushman-McMullen, 2023 CNR Outstanding Alumna
• Kent Van Horn, 2022 CNR Outstanding Alumnus
• Kurt VerCauteren, 2021 CNR Outstanding Alumnus
• Albert Koeppel, CNR Outstanding Alumnus
• Dave Scharfenberger, 2019 CNR Outstanding Alumnus
• Brian Thill, 2018 CNR Outstanding Alumnus
• Nicholas Mutako Syano, 2017 CNR Outstanding Alumnus
• Kurt Thiede, 2016 CNR Outstanding Alumnus
• Jonathan Hempel, 2015 CNR Outstanding Alumnus
• David Hoppe, 2014 CNR Outstanding Alumnus
• Tom Sauer, 2013 CNR Outstanding Alumnus
• James Kurth, 2012 CNR Outstanding Alumnus
• Darrell Zastrow, 2011 CNR Outstanding Alumnus
• Bob Ramlow, 2010 CNR Outstanding Alumnus
• Richard Thiel, 2009 CNR Outstanding Alumnus
• Tom Danz, 2008 CNR Outstanding Alumnus
• Patrick (Buzz) Sorge, 2007 CNR Outstanding Alumnus
• Adrian Wydeven, 2006 CNR Outstanding Alumnus

UW-Stevens Point Distinguished CNR Alumni Award Winners

• Mark E. Anderson ’86, 2016 Distinguished Alumni Award for the College of Natural Resources
• Jenny L. Baeseman ’98, 2011 Distinguished Alumni Award for the College of Natural Resources
• Paul J. DeLong ’85, 2004 Distinguished Alumni Award for the College of Natural Resources
• Jim Heffelfinger ’86, 2017 Distinguished Alumni Award for the College of Natural Resources
• Richard M. Kaminski ’72, 2014 Distinguished Alumni Award for the College of Natural Resources
• Travis Livieri ’93, 2018 Distinguished Alumni Award for the College of Natural Resources
• Paul W. Skinner ’74, 2010 Distinguished Alumni Award for the College of Natural Resources
• Russell P. Wanke ’85, 2015 Distinguished Alumni Award for the College of Natural Resources
• Richard J. Wilke ’73, 2013 Distinguished Alumni Award for the College of Natural Resources

Visit the UW-Stevens Point Alumni Association for a complete list of distinguished alumni.

Nominate the Next CNR Outstanding Alum

Each year, we celebrate one outstanding CNR alum, someone who goes above and beyond in their career, inspires others, leads with purpose, gives back generously, or breaks new ground in their field. This year, we’re asking for your help in recognizing these remarkable individuals. Think of a CNR alum who has made a difference—whether as a quiet changemaker, a bold innovator, or anything in between—and share their story by submitting a nomination. Nominations are due by the second Friday in November, and award recipients will be notified in February. Honorees will be recognized at the CNR Celebration Evening on the third Friday in April. Help us honor alumni who continue to make a lasting impact, submit your nomination today and shine a spotlight on those who inspire us all.