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B&C Highlights The Next Generation of Conservation Leaders at TWS Conference

B&C Highlights The Next Generation of Conservation Leaders at TWS Conference

B&C student leaders lunch and mug
Excerpt from Fair Chase Magazine Fall 2025
By Dave Hewitt, B&C Professional Member

The Boone and Crockett Club made a significant impact at The Wildlife Society’s recent conference in Edmonton, Alberta, engaging with hundreds of wildlife professionals and students from across the nation. During the plenary session, CEO and B&C Professional Member Ed Arnett publicly thanked the Club for its sponsorship of the meeting, recognizing the organization’s continued commitment to advancing wildlife conservation.

B&C booth setup

The Club’s booth, strategically positioned in a high-traffic area of the conference, drew considerable attention from both professional and student attendees. Director of Conservation Research and Education Luke Coccoli staffed the booth and had meaningful conversations with numerous current and past Club Fellows, presenting each with a commemorative Fellows pin to recognize their achievements and highlight the Club’s University Programs.

University of Montana PhD student and B&C Fellow Wesley Sarmento was acknowledged at TWS Council meeting for receiving a travel grant through the Native Peoples Wildlife Management Working Group
University of Montana PhD student and B&C Fellow Wesley Sarmento was acknowledged at TWS Council meeting for receiving a travel grant through the Native Peoples Wildlife Management Working Group.

A particular highlight was the Club’s hosting of the student leaders lunch, which brought together 100 officers representing student chapters of The Wildlife Society from universities nationwide. These emerging conservation leaders represent the most dedicated and ambitious wildlife students in the country. During the lunch, a presentation was given by University Programs sub-committee deputy David Hewitt on the Club’s storied history, its foundational role in shaping conservation policy, and the transformative impact of its University Programs in developing the next generation of conservation leaders. Attendees received branded mugs and participated in a raffle featuring copies of Wild Gourmet cookbook.

Professional Member Chad Bishop (second from left) and University of Wisconsin Stevens Point Professor Jason Riddle (second from right) were sworn in as Representatives to TWS Council.
Professional Member Chad Bishop (second from left) and University of Wisconsin Stevens Point Professor Jason Riddle (second from right) were sworn in as Representatives to TWS Council.

Beyond the booth, Club members remained actively engaged throughout the conference. Luke participated in a career panel highlighting opportunities in wildlife conservation with nonprofit organizations and the meaningful influence such positions can have on conservation outcomes. Dozens of Professional Members, along with other Club representatives in attendance, conducted productive conversations with conference participants about the organization’s mission and work. Fellow Chloe Nouzille shared insights about how her Club Fellowship has been instrumental in advancing her mountain lion research.

Texas A&M Kingsville PhD student and B&C Fellow Chloe Nouzille presented her mountain lion research at the conference.
Texas A&M Kingsville PhD student and B&C Fellow Chloe Nouzille presented her mountain lion research at the conference.

The conference demonstrated the Boone and Crockett Club’s enduring commitment to mentoring the conservation professionals of tomorrow while strengthening relationships across the wildlife community.