July 14, 2024 – Yosemite National Park is pleased to announce that Catherine "Cat" Fong and Jeffrey Trust are the recipients of the 2023 Barry Hance Memorial Award.
The Barry Hance Memorial Award is a peer-nominated award that is named in honor of Barry Hance, a long-time employee of Yosemite National Park who died in an avalanche while plowing the Tioga Road in 1995. Recipients of this prestigious award are employees who exemplify the qualities and attributes of Barry Hance. These include teamwork, a positive attitude, concern for the public and fellow employees, public service, and a deep love for Yosemite National Park.
Cat serves as the park hydrologist and works in the Division of Resources Management and Science. She is instrumental in so many park operations, initiatives, and emergency responses when water is a factor. She led the hydrology components of the Merced River Plan, was integral to the park's response to the record snowpack of 2023 and is frequently called upon as a subject matter expert on a variety of water related issues. Cat was nominated by a plethora of her colleagues and was noted for her patient, engaged, and supportive supervisory skills. Cat was also lauded for her cool, calm, and collected responses to chaotic situations that frequently arise in Yosemite National Park. A colleague noted about Cat, "She is really a team player and leader. She is not afraid to get out in front and help where she can... Cat is a great team member and extremely valuable to the park."
Jeffrey serves as the park's web and social media manager within the Division of Interpretation and Education. As a long-time park employee, Jeffrey is regarded at the "go-to person" to both gather park information and disseminate it to staff and the public through the park's website and social media channels. Many coworkers noted that when information is needed, the common response is "Ask Jeffrey, he'll know." And, if Jeffrey doesn't know something, he'll find the answers at record speed. A coworker noted, "Jeffrey's bright mind, unflagging energy, and devotion to the park have greatly contributed to the preservation of Yosemite, and to the enjoyment of park visitors." Jeffrey was also noted for his unwavering support of fellow employees, willingness to step up when needed, deep knowledge of the park, expertise with social media, and positive attitude. Jeffrey was also noted for his 25+ years of work on the Yosemite Bear Council and serving as the chairperson for 20 years. His work has been instrumental in saving the lives of countless Yosemite bears over the years.
Yosemite National Park Superintendent Cicely Muldoon presented Cat and Jeffrey their Barry Hance awards at an all-employee ceremony on July 9, 2024.
Source & photo: Yosemite National Park
