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The Wildlife Law Enforcement Club at Mississippi State is the first student organization permitted to join a national professional organization.
Established at the university just two years ago, the club recently was inducted into full membership of the North American Wildlife Enforcement Officers Association. The 22-member organization works to promote professionalism and provides social and professional interaction among MSU students preparing for this career field.
Mississippi State is one of only four American universities offering a bachelor's degree curriculum in wildlife law enforcement, one of four career options in the department of wildlife and fisheries.
"As part of NAWEOA, our students will attend national conferences, contribute articles to the biannual newsletter and have numerous other opportunities to interact with wildlife law enforcement professionals," said faculty adviser and assistant professor Donna Minnis. "They also will have another opportunity to meet potential employers."
Founded in 1980, the national association represents some 8,000 wildlife and fisheries enforcement officers throughout the United States and Canada.
Sgt. Jim Willcut of Starkville, conservation officer for the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks, is the MSU club's professional adviser.
Current club officers include president Chad Dacus of Jackson, vice president Nate Hein of Paducah, Ky., secretary Will Bowlin of Hickory Flat, and treasurer Shelley McNamara of Lake Orion, Mich.