Professional Development Program

Are you an Indigenous student enrolled in a wildlife program? Apply for the Native Student Professional Development Program!

The Wildlife Society and the Native Peoples’ Wildlife Management Working Group believe that one of the most effective ways to support Indigenous wildlife students is to give them the opportunity to attend TWS’ Annual Conference. Up to 10 individuals will be selected to attend this year’s conference as part of the program, which includes:

Complimentary registration
Travel grants (for airfare)
Complimentary hotel accommodations
Mentorship at the conference
One-year memberships in TWS & the Native Peoples’ Wildlife Management Working Group
Stipend to attend workshops/trainings during the conference,
Exclusive educational sessions for program participants
Access to all conference networking events

Eligibility

Applicants must meet the following eligibility standards:

Member of a Native American, First Nations, or Indigenous Tribe, or identify as Native Alaskan or Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander
Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program in a relevant academic discipline such as wildlife biology or ecology
Display a record of academic excellence and a strong interest in pursuing a career in wildlife management or conservation

Students within six months of graduation are eligible. Qualified applicants will be evaluated by a panel consisting of the Chair of the NPWMWG, two other NPWMWG members, a TWS staff member, and representatives from other program partners.

Application

Applications must include:

Name, address, email, phone number, tribal affiliation, name of college or university
Current level of study (undergraduate or graduate) and field of study
Most recent official transcripts
Essay (500-750 words) explaining why you would like to participate and how this program might benefit your career development. You may also address how your personal and cultural experiences and skills contribute to the wildlife profession. Mention relevant extracurricular activities, societies, honors, or awards

Please email all application materials to Ty Werdel.

Deadline

The deadline for applications to be received is August 1, 2022.

Program Reports

Native Student Professional Development Program – Final Report 2019
Native Student Professional Development Program – Final Report 2018
Native Student Professional Development Program – Final Report 2017
Native Student Professional Development Program – Final Report 2016
Native Student Professional Development Program – Final Report 2015
Native Student Professional Development Program – Final Report 2014

List of supporters
Supporters of the Native Student Professional Development Program include the U.S. Forest Service, USDA APHIS National Wildlife Research Center, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Sundance Consulting, TWS’ The 1,000, and the Western and Canadian Sections of TWS. Please contact Nick Wesdock to discuss how you can support this program now and into the future.