Clarksville, Ark. --- More than 80 University of the Ozarks students, faculty and staff members took part in the 2011 "Critical Inquiry" class float trip on the Buffalo National River on Sept. 9.
The trip has been an annual excursion organized by Professor of Mathematics Dr. Buddy Smith since 2000. The trip is comprised of students in several “Critical Inquiry” classes, a freshman-level program designed to help students succeed in college and in the working world. As part of a community service component of the program, the group picked up trash along the river during their float.
Following the trip, Smith received a letter from the National Park Service commending the University’s cleanup efforts. Buffalo National River Superintendent Kevin Cheri wrote: “The enthusiastic participation by the University’s 81 individuals exemplifies the type of environmental stewardship that is critical to the river’s ecosystem. The success of their river cleanup efforts can be measured by the amount of rubbish and trash removed from the Buffalo River. Please extend our appreciation to University of the Ozarks for the efforts.” The group’s efforts were also lauded in an article in the Newton County Times newspaper.
Topics: Academics