University of North Texas 
We’re proud to announce that two M.S. Library Science alumni, Rachel Drake ’14 and Jackie Evans ’23, have received distinguished awards from the American Library Association’s (ALA) Reference & User Services Association (RUSA), recognizing their outstanding contributions in federal and armed forces library and museum communities.
Rachel Drake Wins Federal Achievement Award
Rachel Drake, Branch Manager of the Shadow Mountain Branch Library aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center in Twentynine Palms, CA, is the recipient of the 2025 RUSA Federal Achievement Award.
A graduate of the University of North Texas (MSLS 2014), Rachel began her federal service as a library technician at Fort Bliss, Texas in 2012. She has held leadership positions in numerous military settings, including supervisory roles in U.S. Army and Marine Corps libraries in Germany and Japan.
One of her most celebrated achievements is the development of the first dedicated makerspace in an Army Morale, Welfare, and Recreation library, a project which later became a model for makerspaces across the Department of Defense.
“I’m proud to have dedicated my career to serving those who serve. Our military libraries have become more than a collection of books—it’s a mission-critical resource that supports, empowers, and stands alongside every military community member, providing knowledge, comfort, and connection when they need it most. I’m happy to be a part of this important process, contributing to the strength and resilience of those who defend our nation,” Rachel shares.
Jackie Evans Named Federal Rising Star
Jackie Evans, Museum Registrar at the Parris Island Museum (Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, South Carolina), is among the honorees for the 2025 RUSA Federal Rising Stars Award.
The Rising Stars Award recognizes individuals new to the profession who show exceptional promise and dedication to federal or military library or museum service.
Jackie leads the management of the artifact collection and museum finances at the Parris Island Museum, playing a key role in preserving and making accessible Marine Corps history through careful stewardship of artifacts, exhibits, and archival materials. Her work helps ensure that recruits, visitors, researchers, and the broader community can connect with the rich history embodied in the museum’s holdings.
“I’ve always aimed to support our servicemembers and their families, and I am grateful for every opportunity I’ve had to do this work in military libraries and other educational environments. I look forward to further professional growth in this field, and to continue decreasing barriers for our military members in order to always better serve those who serve! Thank you for selecting me to receive this honor as RUSA’s Federal Rising Star,” Jackie shares.
The RUSA awards underscore the critical role of library and museum professionals in military and federal settings: supporting resilience, enabling learning, preserving heritage, and bridging past and present. Congratulations to Rachel and Jackie for these well-deserved honors!