The 21st Annual VMNH Foundation Thomas Jefferson Awards were held on Wednesday, May 7, 2008 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Museum. 

Dr. William M. Kelso, director of archaeology for the Association for the Preservation of Virginia Antiquities Jamestown Rediscovery project, and a past Jefferson Awardee, served as keynote speaker at the event. This year’s ceremony also included an unveiling of a special plaque in the VMNH Library honoring current and past Jefferson Awardees.

The VMNH Foundation Thomas Jefferson Awards honor individuals and corporations for outstanding contributions to natural science and natural science education.

This year’s award recipients include:

Thomas Jefferson Medal for Outstanding Contributions to Natural Science – an individual who has consistently made outstanding contributions to natural history. 
Recipient – Dr. Joseph C. Mitchell of Gainesville, Florida

Thomas Jefferson Medal for Outstanding Contributions to Natural Science Education – a Virginia educator who has consistently made outstanding contributions to natural history, environmental and science education in either the formal or non-formal sectors.
Recipient – Charles K. Jervis of Christiansburg

William Barton Rogers Corporate Award – a corporation that has shown significant support for the natural sciences in Virginia, through contributions to research, science education, or other relevant programs of the museum.
Recipient – Tahoma, Inc. of Martinsville, accepted by Amy Lampe, CEO

William Barton Rogers Individual Award – an individual who has shown significant support for the natural sciences in Virginia, through contributions to research, science education, or other relevant programs of the museum.
Recipient – James C. Firebaugh, Jr. of Richmond

Matthew Fontaine Maury Distinguished Service Award – an individual or corporation that has provided exemplary service in the development of VMNH.
Recipient – Suzi Kirby of Martinsville

Noel T. Boaz Director’s Award – an individual selected by the VMNH Executive Director who has made significant contributions, through volunteer efforts or financial support, to enable the museum to be a more successful institution and to secure its future as a great museum benefiting all citizens of the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Recipient – George and Jean Adams of Martinsville

2008 VMNH Foundation Thomas Jefferson Awards sponsored by:

Click here for the list of 2007 recipients and presenters