IWF board members Sue and Joe Wilkinson named National Conservation Volunteers of the Year by the National Wildlife Federation

The Iowa Wildlife Federation is proud to announce that longtime conservation leaders Sue and Joe Wilkinson of Solon, Iowa have been named National Conservation Volunteers of the Year by the National Wildlife Federation. The award was presented during the 90th Annual Meeting of the National Wildlife Federation, held June 14–17 in Providence, Rhode Island.

“For me, this is a full-circle moment. As a teenager, I read the National Wildlife Federation magazine cover to cover, and years later, when I started attending these annual meetings, I was in awe of the people receiving this recognition. It’s very humbling to be here today,” said Sue Wilkinson.

Sue and Joe have been members of the Iowa Wildlife Federation since 1988 and have dedicated nearly four decades to conservation in Iowa. Throughout the years, they have served as board members, volunteers and ambassadors for wildlife and the outdoors, helping strengthen the organization and expand its impact across the state.

At events such as the Iowa Nature Summit and other community gatherings, Sue and Joe regularly volunteer their time to connect Iowans with conservation. They share information about programs such as School of the Wild and the Iowa Gray Fox Project, helping inspire support for wildlife, habitat and outdoor education.

“What sets Sue and Joe apart is not just what they do, but how consistently they do it,” said Ryan Smith, executive director of the Iowa Wildlife Federation. “They are dependable, generous with their time and always willing to step in wherever help is needed. Their leadership and dedication have strengthened our organization and helped advance conservation across Iowa.”

The National Conservation Volunteer of the Year Award recognizes an outstanding National Wildlife Federation affiliate volunteer whose time, talents and service have advanced conservation efforts.