Veterinarian Niki Wayner is New JSU Field Schools Assistant Director

03/02/2016

Starting over 20 years ago as a raptor rehabilitator helping hawks and owls, Dr. Niki Parrott Wayner has also been an environmental educator and a community leader, but maybe she’s best known as having been one of Fort Payne’s terrific veterinarians.

“She knows everybody and their cats and dogs,’” said Pete Conroy, Director of the Jacksonville State University Little River Canyon Center, “But it is because of her overall qualifications and her demonstrated love for the canyon, JSU is proud to announce her job at the Little River Canyon Center.”

After an open application process, Dr. Wayner has been chosen to take on the position of JSU Field Schools Assistant Director. Her base of operation will be at the Canyon Center, located adjacent to the Little River Canyon National Preserve in Fort Payne, where the University partners with the National Park Service. 

 “Although her main office will be at the Canyon Center, Niki will be involved with all of our operations such as the Cleburne County Mountain Center, McClellan Center as well as our partnerships with schools systems, JSU faculty, the Forest Service, Fish and Wildlife Service and others,”  said Conroy.  “We are all excited for her to hit the ground running!” he said. 

“Niki Parrott Wayner is an amazing educator,” said Maggie Johnson, Director of the McDowell Education Programs, “Niki has a long tradition of helping the people of Alabama learn a greater respect for the natural wonders of our state... From the birds who soar our skies to the deepest canyon.” 

Dr. Wayner holds three degrees from Auburn University including her Bachelor of Science, Master of Agriculture and Doctor of Medicine. She will continue her involvement and her support for the Wills Valley Elementary School “Book Buddy” program and the Fort Payne Rotary Club.

“Fort Payne has been Niki’s home for a long time so there’s no doubt that she already understands the community and the importance of environmental education,” said Anna Lindsay, Coordinator of Sales and Services at the Canyon Center, “We are all looking forward to working with her!”