Contact: Bob Ratliff
The National Wildlife Society student chapter at Mississippi State is first among its peers in the region.
The 85-member group recently received a $1,000 check and a plaque for scoring ahead of 20 other campus chapters in competition at the Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies meeting. The 2001 gathering was held in Louisville, Ky.
"Chapters are judged in six different areas, including increasing public awareness and appreciation of wildlife conservation and the wildlife profession," said adviser Jared Quillen, an MSU Extension Service fisheries assistant. "Each year, our members participate in such activities as the Wood Magic Science Fair, Youth Waterfowl Workshop and Mossy Oak Duck and Deer Fest."
The NWS is an international, nonprofit, scientific and educational organization representing professionals in resource management fields, especially wildlife ecology and management. Founded in 1937 and based in Bethesda, Md., the organization has nearly 9,600 members spread among 60 countries.
Formed in 1971, the MSU chapter is the largest student organization in the College of Forest Resources. All wildlife and fisheries majors, this year's officers include (by hometown):
HUNTSVILLE, Ala.--President Sarah L. Gallagher. A junior, she is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Gallagher and a 1999 Grissom High School graduate.
McCALLA, Ala.--Treasurer Susan C. Stewart. A senior, she is the daughter of Diane Gregg of McCalla and Daniel Stewart of Tuscaloosa, and a 1998 McAdory High School graduate.
MOSS POINT--Secretary Sabrina D. Clark. A junior, she is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Dave Clark and a 1999 Moss Point High School graduate.
OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla.--Vice President Ryan S. Toby. A senior, he is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Ron Toby and a 1997 Mount St. Mary High School graduate.