Natural history collections are a vital resource for studying biodiversity and documenting historical changes in species’ populations. High-quality herbarium specimens provide a wealth of information on plant morphology, geographic distribution, ecology, and evolution. However, organizing and maintaining such collections can be an onerous task.  Washburn University’s herbarium houses approximately 15,000 specimens with more than 75% of the specimens collected within 100 miles of the Topeka, Kansas campus. The collection provides a hyperlocal record of measurable data at fine spatial and temporal scales. However, only half the specimens have been digitally documented and recent renovations uncovered nearly 2,000 additional specimens with neither recorded data nor assigned collection numbers. These facts have prompted us to reassess the state of our collection, determine specific challenges, and define measurable goals. Specific challenges to Washburn’s herbarium collection include an incomplete catalogue, specimens in need of repair, and ineffective databasing and organization methods. To address these challenges, research students at Washburn University designed a workflow that incorporates a stepwise protocol for assessing, repairing, and digitally cataloguing specimens, with a focus on maintaining the quality of each specimen and ensuring accurate identification. The team's workflow has proved to be effective in cataloguing the Washburn University herbarium collection. It has allowed for improved organization and increased efficiency in recording new data. It has also helped prioritize the repair and annotation of existing specimens. This workflow can serve as a model for other institutions with small herbaria facing similar challenges.  These efforts will also ensure that institutions and individuals outside of the area can more easily access the valuable data found in our unique collection.