Florida Museum honors Leslie Klein as Volunteer of the Year award

May 25, 2006

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — The Florida Museum of Natural History recently named docent Leslie Klein the winner of its 2006 James Pope Cheney Volunteer of the Year Award.

Klein, who was recognized at an April 27 reception, has volunteered at the Florida Museum for more than 30 years, working with every age group from toddlers to seniors. Her contributions include design and production of costumes, props, sets, puppets and educational materials. She also has served as an interpreter, outreach volunteer, Florida Museum Associates board member and has conducted workshops for the museum at state and national meetings.

“Leslie’s enthusiasm, multiple skills and willingness to give of her time freely to the museum community has been unselfish and consistent,” said Florida Museum Volunteer Coordinator Julie Crosby.

The James Pope Cheney Volunteer of the Year Award is presented annually to recognize a Florida Museum volunteer who shows exceptional interest in the collections of the museum, effort toward the educational advancement of children and enthusiastic support for the museum and volunteer communities.

The award honors Pope Cheney, who was a docent at the Florida Museum for
14 years before his death on Dec. 17, 2004. Cheney regularly volunteered with school tours, public programs and outreach programs, and was willing to help in other areas as needed. He also used his woodworking skills to create games and exhibit pieces for education.