Art of Interpretation – November 17

Presented by Dr Marsha Stevens

Dr. Sam Ham, a leader in modern conservation interpretation defines interpretation as “a mission-based approach to communication aimed at provoking in audiences the discovery of personal meaning and the forging of personal connection with things, places, people and concepts”. As anyone who has walked the trail with a gifted interpreter will attest, when done well, interpretation is “Pure Magic”! In this experiential program, participants will learn about the ART model of interpretation developed by the National Park Service for use in training interpretive staff, which provides valuable principles and guidance for naturalists who want to develop and lead interpretive activities.

Marsha completed a Ph.D. in Biology with a minor in Statistics from New Mexico State University; M.S. in Biology from University of Texas El Paso; M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction and minor in Wildlife & Fisheries Science from Texas A&M University; and B.S. in Secondary Education with teaching certifications in Biology and Earth Sciences from Lamar University.

Marsha  is a co-founder of Prairie Oaks Chapter, and a retired educator and research scientist whose career encompassed university faculty and administrative positions and environmental protection management in private industry. She co-developed and taught the course “Conservation Outreach & Interpretation” at Tarleton State University during 2018-2021. She counts her Texas Master Naturalist certification as a treasured badge of courage, and her involvement with the program as a joy and an honor