Karni Perez thought she was going to a meeting. But when she walked into the conference room at the Auburn University School of Forestry and Wildlife sciences, people applauded.
Perez was presented with the W. Kelly Mosley Environmental Award Sunday before approximately 30 friends and colleagues.
The award is presented to “unsung heroes” of natural resource management in the state, said Dr. Dick Brinker, dean of the Auburn University School of Forest and Wildlife Sciences.
Perez worked with the Raptor Center and has led the summer camp program at the AU Forest Ecology Preserve for years, among other things.
“When the land around the Forest Ecology Preserve started being developed about two or three years ago, there was a concern. … We needed to have a buffer,” Brinker said. “The city only required a 10-foot buffer. … Of course, 10 feet wasn’t near enough for Karni.
“She made a very impassioned plea to them to make sure we maintain our green spaces for our children and the community, and it wound up being a 50-foot buffer. … That was because of Karni’s persistence and determination.”
Perez listened to Brinker’s speech with tears in her eyes.
“I’m just floored,” she said afterward. “I’m happy just doing what I do. … This is an honor I never imagined getting.”
Margaret Holler worked with Perez for years and nominated her for the award.
“That’s her life, promoting environmental education,” Holler said. “She does anything and everything she can. … I’m so proud of her.”
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