FINEVIEW – The wetland-themed room at the Minna Anthony Common Nature Center in Wellesley Island State Park, will be dedicated to the memory of the late Jean S. Newell, well-known Ogdensburg educator and Clarkson trustee Jean S. Newell.

The late Mrs. Newell’s son, philanthropist Allan P. Newell has donated $200,000 for the renovations of the nature center.

Originally, from Long Island, Jean Smith graduated from Potsdam Normal School in 1940 and married Edgar A. Newell of Ogdensburg, who graduated from Clarkson University in 1940.

She was civically active in Ogdensburg and later Freeport, Illinois. Mrs. Newell became the first female Newell Co. director in 1966 and served as a trustee of Clarkson University.

A voracious reader and historian, she was an avid bird watcher and observer of life who always fostered a love of the natural world in her children Allan, Jennifer and Carol. Her homes were decorated with natural selections from forests, fields and fence rows.

The Minna Anthony Common Nature Center (MACNC) is currently under a complete structural renovation that will be completed by fall 2017.

The Wetlands Discovery Room dedicated to Mrs. Newell will be located in the expanded eastern portion of the building. This portion of MACNC will include aquariums, interactive elements, and several other features to help visitors appreciate the importance and beauty of wetlands.

"Wetlands are a mysterious soup of complex interconnected flora and fauna. These exhibits will instill a sense of curiosity, wonder, understanding and exploration in both children and adults." said Mr. Newell.

More information on the Minna Anthony Common Nature Center can be found at www.macnaturecenter.com or by calling 315-482-2479.