Jon Schultz, former Riverside High School student, was recognized as Volunteer of the Year by Upstate Forever at its annual luncheon. Schultz was among five people honored for their work in promoting Upstate Forever.
Nell Newman, president and co-founder of Newman’s Own Organics, delivered the keynote address at the event. An ardent supporter of sustainable agriculture, Newman spoke about the importance of organic foods and shared her perspective on why living an environmentally conscious life helps everyone.
“These champions have done exceptional work in making the Upstate a greener, cleaner and more sustainable region,” said Brad Wyche, executive director of Upstate Forever. “The luncheon is an opportunity to recognize and thank them for their leadership and accomplishments.”
While a senior at Riverside High School, Schultz devoted more than 200 hours as a volunteer in the Greenville office, working on a wide variety of tasks in each of the three program areas of Upstate Forever.
He researched carbon mitigation programs and sustainable forestry practices, worked on T-shirt designs, assisted with membership mailings, weeded and mulched the Upstate Forever office yard and provided administrative assistance wherever needed.
Schultz’s appreciation of Upstate Forever’s work grew out of a family life that included vacations in the outdoors and an introduction to the importance of conservation for wildlife habitat and recreation. He is a biology major at USC Upstate.
Others honored:
Tommy Wyche Land Conservation Champion Award: Shea Airey
Sustainable Communities Champion Award: The Greenville Hospital System
Clean Water Champion: John Lane
Public Servant of the Year: Paul Agnew
Volunteer of the Year: Jon Schultz