Dr. Behrendt has been a local science fair judge for more than 40 years, and has judged State Science Day for more than two decades. “When I talk to the students, my primary goal is to support and reinforce their excitement and interest. It is as much a celebration of a really ‘cool’ project, as it is evaluating that project.” Dr. Behrendt has taught middle school, high school, university, and adult students. “I want my students to realize the awe and wonder of everything around us. Nothing is more exciting in teaching than to hear a student exclaim, ‘wow!’” Dr. Behrendt is also a volunteer biologist and educator for the Ohio Division of Wildlife, Archbold Biological Station, and Conservation Florida, where he encourages children and adults to get outside and experience nature, no matter whether it is in one’s back yard, a local park, or in deep woods.

Dr. Behrendt is presently an adjunct Professor with Ohio University and Webber International University in Florida. He graduated from North Olmsted High School, and then earned a B.A. in Biology from Wittenberg University (1977) with Medical Technologist MT(ASCP) certification before working 20 years in a medical center laboratory, 10 of which as evening shift supervisor.

Dr. Behrendt assembled and operated a private fossil preparation laboratory, preparing fossils for museums, universities, and private collectors. He was the co-founder of Perry County Big
Brothers/ Big Sisters.