Awards of Merit

Polly Knowlton Cockett

Polly Knowlton Cockett makes a difference on this planet and works tirelessly to ensure that it is a better place. She has received the Award of Merit in acknowledgement of the outstanding work she is doing with the award-winning Natureground project at Dr E W Coffin School, in Calgary. Polly has worked with hundreds of students, parents, teachers, volunteers, municipal employees and the community to reclaim land and bring it back to its natural state for all people to enjoy and learn from. She led the campaign to paint over graffitistreaked walls in Calgary’s Brentwood neighbourhood, and she presents workshops at the GEOEC annual conference.

To better understand her work, visit the Natureground web site (www.natureground.org), or read her article "Place Value: Ecological Education in Northwest Calgary" in the last issue of Connections (Volume 31, Number 1).

Palisades Stewardship Education Centre

Parks Canada's Palisades Stewardship Education Centre, located in Jasper National Park, is the jewel of environmental stewardship for youth in Canada. The worthy educators at the youth education centre are promoting science, biology, geology, geography, earth sciences, wildlife sciences, archaeology, Aboriginal studies, history and outdoor education for students. Their vision clearly states their hope that youth will share their passion for and appreciation of Canada’s national parks and national historic sites. The programs they provide for teachers and students ensure that their vision will be realized. Take the time to visit their web site (www.pc.gc.ca/pn-np/ab/jasper/edu/edu5.aspx) and see for yourself why we have awarded them with an Award of Merit.

Appreciation of Service Awards

Jere Geiger

Jere Geiger has contributed to environmental and global education in this province as GEOEC's PEC liaison for many years. This is a position that he was assigned to, but he has certainly become a part of our team. He has demonstrated a personal passion for the work of our council. No GEOEC conference is complete without a walk into the woods with Jere; his understanding of the land is admirable. He is a worthy recipient of the Appreciation of Service Award, and we welcome his return to the council.

Kathy Satterfield

Kathy Satterfield has been a tireless worker for our council. While she was still in university, she began helping with the planning of our annual conference. Her attention to detail has kept many a conference chair on track. When we needed a president, she stepped into the position despite her lack of experience. It was a fast track of learning for her, and she served for several years on the executive. Her dedication to the council makes her a worthy recipient of the Appreciation of Service Award.