Dr. Kenneth Farrish received the Project Learning Tree Forestry Innovation Award during the Texas Forestry Association’s annual convention held in October in Galveston. The award recognizes Farrish’s efforts to develop and continually improve Stephen F. Austin State University’s Division of Environmental Science senior seminar course that enhances student competencies in the professional workplace.
“Dr. Farrish realized that graduates often lack certain skills that enable them to build successful, satisfying careers,” said Misty Bowie, PLT co-coordinator. “That understanding of his student’s needs and the needs of their future employers led him to develop and continually improve his senior seminar course.”
Noteworthy class activities include attending the Texas Association of Environmental Professionals’ conference, professional networking and a business dining etiquette seminar. Writing résumé and cover letters, interview etiquette, presentation and interpersonal skills, and appropriate business attire also are addressed.
“The course, which is required for seniors in the environmental science program, is experience-based, helping students develop skills that make them more well-rounded in their individual lives and build their self-confidence as they prepare for the transition to the workplace,” Bowie said. “Positive feedback from the course has led administrators in the forestry program, as well as in other colleges on the SFA campus, to take steps to develop and implement similar programs for their respective fields.”
The Texas Forestry Association, the voice for forestry for 100 years, promotes an economic, social and political climate that advances forestry in Texas through education, political action and public relations. The organization also serves the broad needs of forest landowners, producers and consumers, and seeks to enhance and perpetuate the resources of Texas forests.
