Yadkin Valley Wildlife Federation Awards Scholarships to Foster Future Conservation Leaders

The Yadkin Valley Wildlife Federation (YVWF) is proud to announce the recipients of its annual scholarship program, continuing its commitment to nurturing the next generation of wildlife conservationists and outdoor enthusiasts. This year, YVWF awarded six scholarships totaling $11,000 to deserving students who demonstrate a passion for wildlife preservation, habitat restoration, and responsible sportsmanship.

The YVWF Scholarship Program supports high school seniors and college students pursuing careers in fields such as wildlife conservation, preservation, habitat management, and fisheries. Recipients are selected based on their academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, essays outlining their career goals and past engagement with wildlife efforts, and a demonstrated commitment to the outdoors.

“We are incredibly proud to support these bright and dedicated students who are committed to protecting our natural resources,” said Josh Powell, YVWF President. “Investing in their education is an investment in the future of wildlife in the Yadkin Valley and beyond. Their passion and understanding of conservation are vital for ensuring a healthy ecosystem for generations to come.”

The 2025 Yadkin Valley Wildlife Federation scholarship recipients are:

• Allysa Weeks – Surry County, a junior at N.C. State University, pursuing a degree in Fisheries, Wildlife & Conservation Biology.
• Sadie Tucker – Davie County, a sophomore at Montana State University pursuing a degree in Organismal Biology & Genetics.
• Layla Marshall – Surry County, a senior at East Surry High School planning to pursue a degree in Wildlife Biology at Lees-Mcrae College.
• Reagan Tullock – Surry County, a sophomore at Appalachian State University & Wilkes Community College, pursuing a degree in Agriculture Education.
• Marcus Simmons – Dare County, a senior at Manteo High School planning to pursue a degree in Environmental Science at Wake Forest University.
• Evan Danhauer -Forsyth County, a senior at Reagan High School planning to pursue a degree in Sustainable Business Management at Appalachian State University.

The YVWF believes in the transformative power of education and aims to empower talented and dedicated students to reach their full potential in contributing to the field of wildlife conservation.