Demmer scholars don’t just build their professional skills in internships, they build physical and mental fitness in field trips as well. At Harper’s Ferry WV, scholars hiked to the Maryland Heights overlook above the town. The hike involved discussion of unique geology, wildlife, and economic opportunities of conservation. This bird's eye view also provided a great backdrop for the historic significance of the area.

Since its inception in May 2009, the Boone and Crockett Club's Bill and Linda Demmer Scholars Program has served as a cornerstone for developing the next generation of conservation leaders. Founded and directed by Mark Rey, the program brings together high-achieving undergraduate and graduate students primarily from partner universities—including Michigan State University, Mississippi State University, and the University of Montana—as well as other cooperating institutions across the country. Over the past 15 years, hundreds of alumni have leveraged this unique experience to launch impactful careers in federal agencies, congressional offices, non-profit organizations, and private industry.

At the heart of the program is an intensive summer in Washington, D.C., where scholars participate in paid natural resource policy internships alongside coursework in federal policy. Interns gain direct, applied experience working inside federal land management agencies, Congressional committees, and leading conservation non-profits. This immersive environment exposes students to complex management challenges, connects them with seasoned conservation professionals, and equips them with a practical understanding of how natural resource policy is crafted and implemented at the highest levels of government.

Complementing their office duties, scholars engage in networking events and experiential field trips across the Mid-Atlantic region. From high-level dinners with senior executives from the USDA, Forest Service, and Department of the Interior to hands-on wildlife research and environmental sampling, these activities bridge the gap between policy discussions and field realities. These excursions not only reinforce critical concepts in geology, ecology, and wildlife management, but also foster strong camaraderie, professional discipline, and lifelong networks among the cohort.

The summer 2026 cohort continues this proud legacy with another dynamic season of learning, public service, and adventure in the nation’s capital. From their orientation near Capitol Hill to field experiences in Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia, this year's scholars are actively shaping their professional skills while exploring historic landscapes and vital ecosystems. Below are a few highlights documenting the moments, field trips, and leadership milestones that defined the 2026 program.

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