NATURAL HISTORY COLLECTIONS AT EASTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY

Eastern Kentucky University houses an impressive assortment of Natural History collections, arguably the largest in the state. These collections are vitally important to researchers in the state, as they provide a repository of information needed for observations both modern and historical. The Society for Museum Sciences is a student led organization that is giving undergraduate students relevant job experience for careers in or around natural history collections and museums. Not only are collections enticing for the public but are a useful tool for scientists. New discoveries come out of old collections frequently. Therefore, we have been training other students in their ability to interact with collection databases, take good field samples and field notes, specimen preparation, and specimen storage. This is a multidiscipline organization aiming to help biology and geology students mainly. Not only by getting hands on experience, but also networking help. We are collaborating with nearby colleges and museums to help us learn about specific processes, and also get to know the people who work there. Another goal of the Society for Museum sciences is to demonstrate the need for a natural history museum in Kentucky. Kentucky is a hotbed for Devonian and Carboniferous fossils. Most of the specimens from those ages in nearby museums come from localities in Kentucky, yet there isn’t an instate spot for them. Hopefully a group of passionate students can help educate about the states natural history.