The Piedmont Soil and Water Conservation agency recently honored two of Fuqua School’s own during their annual Conservation Awards program.

“Fuqua School AP Environmental Science Teacher and Envirothon Coach Kelly Atkinson was recognized as the Conservation Educator of the Year,” school officials said in a press release. “Her interest in and dedication to the environment is longstanding as she inspires her students to have a strong conservation ethic. Fuqua School Senior Gabe Jenkins was also recognized and earned the Young Conservationist of the year award.” According to the release, Jenkins completed an externship with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) over the summer.

“He shadowed NRCS staff members to gain some real-world experience in the conservation field. He learned about natural resource protection, engineering checks on watering systems and exclusion fencing used in livestock operations.”