The Special Recognition Award honors truly exceptional contributions that advance wildlife conservation, ecology, management, education, and the mission of TWS. Designed to be both inclusive and prestigious, this award provides flexibility to recognize outstanding individuals, groups, students, Chapters, or partners whose work rises above expectations and delivers meaningful, lasting impact.

Unlike the rigid categories of our traditional award structure, the Special Recognition Award will now be granted to as many—or as few—nominees as warranted in a given year. The standard is intentionally high. Recipients must demonstrate extraordinary achievement, leadership, innovation, or service that meaningfully supports wildlife conservation or strengthens the profession. In some years, no award may be given. In others, multiple honorees may be recognized. It all depends on the depth and quality of nominations received.

The Special Recognition Award now encompasses, but is not limited to, accomplishments historically recognized through several legacy awards, including:

  • The Jim McDonough “True Professional” Award 
  • Conservation education
  • Wildlife restoration
  • Distinguished service
  • Chapter and group achievement
  • Student and advisor leadership
  • Honorary service

We hope that through this new model,  excellence is celebrated thoughtfully, credibly, and with the prominence such achievements deserve. As with any new endeavor, TWS will monitor the effectiveness of this refreshed approach and make changes as necessary to ensure the continued integrity, fairness and significance of TWS awards.  

Nomination Requirements

Nominations for the Special Recognition Award must include:

  • Contact information for the nominee and nominator
  • Narrative Statement describing the nominee’s contribution and why it is extraordinary to our profession and/or TWS.
  • Letter of support (minimum of one, up to five), combined into a single document.
  • Supporting materials, such as,  a nominee’s CV, examples of work, and other relevant information (up to two additional files can be uploaded with the nomination).

Nomination materials must be submitted via the online nominations system by May 1 at 11:59 PM ET.

For questions related to TWS Awards please email, awards@wildlife.org.