An interpreter to remember...
The Great Lakes Region is one of only two Regions within the National Association of Interpretation with an award that has been set aside specifically for non-full-time interpreters. It is widely known that part-time staff are an integral part to any park operation. Started in 1995, the Sandy McBeath Outstanding Part-time/Seasonal Interpreter Award honors the dedication and unwavering commitment of these essential employees. What is not widely known is the story of the award’s namesake. Donald “Sandy” McBeath was born March 3, 1938. In his youth, he was a Boy Scout. He eventually studied Park Management at Ferris State University and Michigan State University. After a two-year stint in the United States Army, he began his professional career at Hartwick Pines State Park in Grayling, Michigan. He was the manager of Benzie State Park (now a part of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore) when he was invited, in 1975, to help start the Gillette Visitor Center at P.J. Hoffmaster State Park in Norton Shores, Michigan. |
During his tenure, he was an active member with the Association of Interpretive Naturalists (AIN) and went on to play a role in the merger with the Western Interpreters Association (WIA) to form the NAI we know today. He also started the Gillette Nature Association in 1977 with the intention of building a long-lasting sustainable fund to support interpretive efforts and education in his park.
Perhaps more importantly, he is also fondly remembered for his professional commitment and desire to nurture part-time staff with his “parental energy” (as it was called by his peers). Many of his staff from over the years went on to great careers in natural resource management, interpretation and conservation. Those that knew him are certain that his energy was a fuel that made this happen. His untimely passing in 1994 from a cardiac event clearly cut short an impressive career and a life well lived.
Perhaps more importantly, he is also fondly remembered for his professional commitment and desire to nurture part-time staff with his “parental energy” (as it was called by his peers). Many of his staff from over the years went on to great careers in natural resource management, interpretation and conservation. Those that knew him are certain that his energy was a fuel that made this happen. His untimely passing in 1994 from a cardiac event clearly cut short an impressive career and a life well lived.
It is the hope of NAI Great Lakes Region that the essence and parental energy of Sandy McBeath live on…