The Wildlife Leadership Academy enriches Pennsylvania teens and empowers them to become certified Conservation Ambassadors through attending one of our 5-day residential summer field schools: white-tailed deer, brook trout, bass, turkey or bear.
Our students gain extensive knowledge about wildlife and conservation, leadership experience, and communication skills.
Please consider helping us continue to build a network of inspired and dedicated young leaders for conservation to ensure a sustained wildlife legacy for future generations.
Our Conservation Ambassadors receive:
- Letters of Recommendation from the Executive Director for college applications;
- Certification of community service work, and,
- Certificates designating them as Conservation Ambassadors.
PLUS, Conservation Ambassadors are also eligible to:
- Receive 3 College Credits from Cedar Crest College;
- Apply to become a Youth Mentor and return to the program tuition free the following year;
- Compete for college scholarships;
- Attend college visit days at colleges and universities that have wildlife and conservation programs; and,
- Join an Academy Alumni Network of wildlife, fisheries, and conservation professionals.
We are looking for highly motivated students between the ages of 14 and 17 to join one of our 5-day residential summer wildlife/fisheries focused field schools to begin their journey to become Conservation Ambassadors. Students should have demonstrated interest in the outdoors and in wildlife and/or fisheries conservation.
Frequently Asked Questions by Nominators
What is the cost of tuition for the Wildlife Leadership Academy?
Tuition Cost is $600 which includes housing and meals. Scholarship support is available at 50% ($300) and 80% ($480) levels; applicants will receive a scholarship application during the application process. Students are also encouraged to connect with their communities to find tuition support.
When will my nominee hear from the Academy?
Invitation to apply packets will be mailed the first week of January to students who are nominated prior to this date. Students nominated after January 1st will be mailed a packet within two weeks of receiving their nomination.
Can a 13 year old or 18 year old apply?
Our preference is for ages 14-17. However, for 13 year old applicants, if they are competitive and mature, they may be selected to attend field school. We rarely select 18 year old applicants/graduating seniors, as program expectations are that youth complete community outreach after the field school and most 18 year olds (high school seniors) are likely off to college.
Is this an overnight camp?
Yes, the field school is 5 days/4 nights. However, the Wildlife Leadership Academy is not just a one week program, accepted students are mentored to engage in conservation focused community outreach after the field school. In addition, we aim to support the success of our alumni from high school to college to career.
What are the dates for 2023 field schools?
More Questions?
NOMINATE A TEEN
The Wildlife Leadership Academy enriches Pennsylvania teens and empowers them to become certified Conservation Ambassadors through attending one of our 5-day residential summer field schools: white-tailed deer, brook trout, bass, turkey or bear.
Our students gain extensive knowledge about wildlife and conservation, leadership experience, and communication skills.
Please consider helping us continue to build a network of inspired and dedicated young leaders for conservation to ensure a sustained wildlife legacy for future generations.
Our Conservation Ambassadors receive:
PLUS, Conservation Ambassadors are also eligible to:
We are looking for highly motivated students between the ages of 14 and 17 to join one of our 5-day residential summer wildlife/fisheries focused field schools to begin their journey to become Conservation Ambassadors. Students should have demonstrated interest in the outdoors and in wildlife and/or fisheries conservation.
Frequently Asked Questions by Nominators
What is the cost of tuition for the Wildlife Leadership Academy?
When will my nominee hear from the Academy?
Can a 13 year old or 18 year old apply?
Is this an overnight camp?
What are the dates for 2023 field schools?
More Questions?