2015-16 Honoree - Dr. Chris Barnhart

Professor, Biology Department

College of Natural and Applied Sciences 

Dr. Christopher Barnhart integrates the principles of Public Affairs into all aspects of his research, teaching and service.  Since his arrival at Missouri State in 1991, his lab work has had local and national impact on endangered species, federal water quality regulations and environmental sustainability.  His study with freshwater mussels earned his federal team the 2014 EPA’s National Science Achievement Award.  Dr. Barnhart inspires his classroom students to not only study and research biology, but to become true citizen scholars.  Many have become engaged citizens restoring endangered species and informing public policy throughout the U.S. and internationally.  He is founder and Curator of the Butterfly House at Nathanial Greene Park and has participated 17 years with the Springfield Nature Center’s Insect-O-Rama program.  We congratulate Dr. Chris Barnhart for his contributions, impact on student learning and bringing the fun of science into our community.