Dr. Mary Thompson Honored

Mary Thompson, retired Senior Collections Manager at the Museum and well-respected paleontologist, has studied and cared for the Museum’s thousands of fossils and other specimens for more than 30 years.

For her dedication to preserving Idaho's natural history the Idaho State Historical Society (ISHS) awarded Dr. Thompson the 2023 Esto Perpetua Award. "I am thrilled," Thompson said. "I was totally surprised when I received the phone call that I was being awarded."

The ISHS pays tribute each year to remarkable individuals and organizations that have dedicated themselves to preserving and promoting the rich history of Idaho and its communities. Established in 1999, the Esto Perpetua Award has recognized over 200 inspiring individuals and organizations throughout Idaho who have demonstrated unwavering dedication, commitment, and passion for the preservation and promotion of Idaho's history.