Grants & Awards

Recognizing Excellence in Wildlife Conservation

The Kansas Chapter of The Wildlife Society (KSTWS) recognizes and supports individuals who contribute to wildlife conservation, research, education, and stewardship across Kansas. Through grants, scholarships, and awards, the chapter encourages professional growth, student engagement, and excellence in wildlife science and management.

Student Grants & Research Awards

Kansas Natural Resources Conference Registration Grant

KSTWS offers registration grants to help students attend the Kansas Natural Resources Conference (KNRC). These grants support professional development, networking, and participation in the Kansas wildlife and natural resources community.


Eligibility: Any students who are currently members of any TWS Chapter.

Best Student Wildlife Research Presentation Award

Recognizes students who present high-quality wildlife research at the Kansas Natural Resources Conference (KNRC). Students may indicate their interest in being judged during abstract submission, and the selected recipient receives a monetary award.

Best Student Wildlife Research Poster Award

Recognizes students who present high-quality wildlife research posters at the Kansas Natural Resources Conference (KNRC). Students may indicate their interest in being judged during abstract submission, and the selected recipient receives a monetary award.

Robert J. Robel Memorial Award

The Robert J. Robel Memorial Award honors undergraduate students in Kansas pursuing wildlife biology, wildlife management, or related natural resource degrees. The award recognizes enthusiasm, leadership, professional involvement, and dedication to wildlife conservation through science-based stewardship.


The selected recipient receives a $500 scholarship and is recognized during the KSTWS annual business meeting held in conjunction with the Kansas Natural Resources Conference (KNRC).


Nomination Materials: 


Nominations should include:

  • Resume 
  • Academic transcripts 
  • One letter of recommendation from an academic advisor or wildlife professional 
  • One-page cover letter describing career goals and interest in the wildlife profession

The Snipe Award

The Snipe Award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to wildlife conservation, professional leadership, and science-based stewardship in Kansas. Presented by KSTWS, the award honors dedication to wildlife resources, professional involvement, and efforts that promote conservation through education and sound management practices.


The award is traditionally presented to a Kansas Chapter member who has demonstrated meaningful contributions to wildlife conservation within the state, though nominees may be at any career stage. Recipients are presented with the traveling Snipe Award trophy, a long-standing chapter tradition that celebrates the history and community of wildlife professionals in Kansas.


Nominations may be submitted at any time by sending a nomination letter to: kschapterwildlifesociety@gmail.com



The award is presented during the KSTWS annual business meeting held in conjunction with the Kansas Natural Resources Conference (KNRC).

History of the Snipe Award

First presented in 1987, the Snipe Award was created as a lighthearted but meaningful tradition recognizing individuals who have made outstanding contributions to wildlife conservation in Kansas. Designed as a traveling trophy, the award celebrates not only professional achievement, but also the camaraderie, mentorship, and shared passion that connect members of the Kansas Chapter of The Wildlife Society.


Inspired by the classic “snipe hunt” tradition, the award was intended to spark conversations, preserve chapter history, and honor individuals who have dedicated themselves to wildlife stewardship and conservation. Over the years, the Snipe Award has become an enduring symbol of service, professionalism, and community within the Kansas wildlife profession.


The award also reflects the chapter’s commitment to science-based wildlife management, education, and the conservation of natural resources for future generations.

Past Snipe Award Recipients

  • 2026 – Matt Peek 
  • 2024 – Dave Haukos
  • 2023 – Matt Bain
  • 2019 – Matt Smith
  • 2016 – Jim Hays
  • 2014 – Don Kaufman
  • 2011 – Joe D. Kramer
  • 2010 – Doug Blex
  • 2009 – Elmer Finck
  • 2008 – Mark Sexson
  • 2007 – Randy Rodgers
  • 2005 – Tom Swan
  • 2004 – Kathy Sexson
  • 2003 – Bob Culbertson
  • 2002 – Ron Little
  • 2000 – Lee Queal
  • 1999 – Charles Lee
  • 1997 – Steve Sorenson
  • 1995 – William Hlavachic 
  • 1994 – David Wiseman
  • 1991 – Robert J. Robel
  • 1990 – Keith Sexson
  • 1989 – Robert D. Wood
  • 1988 – Marvin Schwilling
  • 1987 – Stephen Capel

Apply or Submit a Nomination

Interested in applying for a grant or submitting an award nomination? KSTWS welcomes applications and nominations that recognize excellence in wildlife conservation and professional leadership.