Science North volunteer garners national award

A Science North volunteer, with more than 15 years of experience, is in the spotlight after winning the 2012 Canadian Association of Science Centres Making a Difference Award. 

The national award is given to an individual engaged directly in program or exhibit delivery, who has made a significant difference to their colleagues and their public visitors, according to a news release from Science North. Linda Bissett accepted the award during the CASCADE National Awards Gala Dinner held at the Canada Aviation and Space Museum in Ottawa. 

A mother of two, Bissett is also a graduate of the University of Toronto in Animal Behaviour, and holds a diploma in Diagnostic Cytology from the Michener Institute. She has worked in science for several years and is a true community ambassador. Bissett can often be found interacting with Science North visitors in the Nature Exchange on Level 2 of the science centre. 

"People say I give a lot, but I also get a lot in return. Awards are won with a lot of people helping you, and I would like to thank all those who have helped me,” Bissett, who was surprised to be announced as this year’s winner of the 2012 CASC Making a Difference Award, said. 

"Volunteers are an integral part of our workforce,” Guy Labine, Science North CEO, said. “We are so pleased Linda has received this recognition on a national level for her dedication to Science North. She has certainly had a positive impact on our visitors.”

"We should all be proud of Linda who represents a true Science North and Sudbury community ambassador, who gives her energy freely every day,” Nadim Kara, Science North’s Director of Organizational Development, added. “Not only is Linda involved in program development at Science North, but she also delivers relevant visitor experiences and mentors new volunteers.”

Most recently, Bissett worked with Science North’s Organizational Development unit to re-imagine the volunteer program, which now has a greater emphasis on customizing volunteer experiences for older adults so that their placement matches well with their schedules and skill sets, according to the release.

From photographers, to a fix-it team, to retired miners providing guided tours, Science North has re-imagined the volunteer program to create inclusive spaces for older adults and teens who give their energy to science.

There are currently 200 skilled volunteers who make up the Science North team. To find out what volunteering at the science centre is all about, contact Tasha Denis, Organizational Development co-ordinator at [email protected] or by calling 705-522-3701, ext 291. 

- Posted by Jenny Jelen