DNA, a Link to the Past — Historical Society Presents Program with Local Science Educator Rutland
Published: 2:27 pm Tuesday, September 22, 2026
Have you ever wondered how DNA can help uncover the past?
From identifying individuals and tracing ancient migrations to revealing genetic histories, DNA plays a crucial role in confirming family lineage. Discover how DNA impacts history on Thursday, Sept. 24, at the Jimmy Furlow Senior Citizens Center, when science educator Amy Rutland shares insights from her over 35 years of scientific experience.
A Lawrence County native, Rutland has taught biological sciences at Brookhaven High School for 36 years, covering subjects such as Human Anatomy and Physiology, AP Biology, Botany, Zoology, and Earth and Space Sciences. She holds B.S. and M.S. degrees in Biological Science Education from the University of Southern Mississippi and completed her A.A. degree at Copiah-Lincoln Community College.
To stay current in her field, Rutland has participated in two intensive workshops at Southern Miss. She is a member of several state and national education organizations and has received numerous honors, including being named in Who’s Who in American Educators five times, BHS Teacher of the Month, BHS Teacher of the Year (2022-2023), Brookhaven School District Teacher of the Year (2022-2023), and the BSD “Heart of the Panther” for 2025-2026.
Rutland has also coached the State Champion Science Olympiad Team, the award-winning Science Quest Team, and co-sponsored several teams including the MC Math and Science Team, the Mississippi Science and Engineering Bowl, and the BHS Academic Team.
Statewide, she has served on the State Biology Testing development and data committees, as well as the State Science Curriculum Committee, contributing as a writer and contributor to the 2010 Framework. Additionally, she was a contributor for the “Mississippi Biology Teacher Resource Guide: Cell and Molecular Biology Edition,” focusing on laboratory activities.
Outside of her teaching career, Rutland is actively involved in her church, Topeka Baptist in Jayess, where she participates in music, missions, and youth programs.
The DNA program will commence at 6:30 p.m. and is open to the public. Refreshments will be served.
