Mestenhauser Student Award

Amanda Sames is a graduate student in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Natural Resource Sciences at the University of Minnesota pursuing a Ph.D. in Conservation Science. Throughout her time at the university, Amanda has demonstrated a commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. Amanda collaborated with the Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology (FWCB) Department on developing their strategic plan for international and intercultural engagement, working to enhance the intersection with diversity and inclusion efforts. In response to findings in the plan, Amanda established the Conservation Science Peer Mentor Program to pair new graduate students with students in the department. Amanda also serves as the student representative to the Grad School Advisory Board (GSAB), as well as teaches a course in the Master of Development Practice Program.