In July of 2023, State College resident Cody Strauss (15), attended the Wildlife Leadership Academy to become a Conservation Ambassador. Cody's journey culminated in the creation of informational posters featuring the time and effort he put into studying wild turkey. The posters will hang in the TeensCreate Gallery Space until September 26.

Like Cody's, students’ Conservation Ambassador journey begins as they attend rigorous summer field schools that focus on wildlife/fisheries biology and conservation as well as leadership skills development and continues with community outreach through education, service, media engagement, creative arts, and outdoor mentorship.

After completing field school, Cody plans to do community service projects to help spread the word on conversation and education. He’s particularly proud of the organization’s training in leadership development, and hopes to make a difference in his community.

The mission of the Wildlife Leadership Academy is to engage and empower high school age youth to become Conservation Ambassadors to ensure a sustained wildlife, fisheries and natural resource legacy for future generations.

The Wildlife Leadership Academy, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is a cooperative educational initiative involving state agencies and conservation organizations. During Codys time at the academy he learned from experts from the National Wildlife Turkey Federation, Pennsylvania Game Commission, Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, and more!

Anyone interested in learning more about the Wildlife Leadership Academy can visit. https://wildlifeleadershipacademy.org/