Dr. Sarah Fortner has been honored with the 2023 Lois M. Jones Award for her outstanding contributions to Science Access, Engagement, and Communications. The Lois Jones award is bestowed upon a present or former member of the Byrd Center who has made remarkable strides in promoting various scientific disciplines. This includes expanding access to scientific opportunities for underrepresented communities, involving new segments of society in research endeavors, and enhancing the communication of scientific knowledge.

Dr. Fortner's dedication to science education is exemplified by her significant involvement in the Science Education Resource Center's (SERC's) Teach the Earth website. She has played a pivotal role in curating geosciences education materials that are thoroughly reviewed for both content accuracy and effective pedagogy. Furthermore, she serves as an instructor for the Girls on Ice program, situated on the Juneau Icefields. Through this program, young women are introduced to the world of glaciology, and equipped with the skills and confidence to operate in challenging and frigid environments. Dr. Fortner was once a participant in the Girls on Ice program during her youth.

One of her colleagues who nominated her for this award spoke highly of Dr. Fortner's unwavering passion, enthusiasm, and commitment to educating the world about the critical issues of climate change and environmental degradation, and their profound implications for the future of our planet. She stands as a true inspiration, not only to her students but also to her peers, with her exceptional energy, optimism, and strong work ethic being deeply admired by all who know her.

Dr. Fortner's teaching excellence has been repeatedly recognized, with several awards in the domains of community service and community-based engagement. She served as a co-leader for the NSF InTeGrate Project in Sustainability, which aimed to integrate sustainability into curricula and the broader community. Furthermore, she has actively contributed to the AGU's Science to Action Committee and played a crucial role in the subcommittee on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion within the National Academy of Science's Committee to advise the U.S. Global Change Research Program.

Dr. Fortner's affiliation with the Byrd Center spans her academic journey, from pursuing her M.S. and Ph.D. to completing her post-doctoral work. Currently, she holds the position of Director of Sustainability at Carleton College.

For further information regarding this distinguished award, please explore the Lois M. Jones Award page.