Sue Wilkinson, Joe Wilkinson Honored with Volunteer of the Year Award

RESTON, Va. - Sue and Joe Wilkinson of the Iowa Wildlife Federation have received the National Wildlife Federation's annual Volunteer of the Year Award in recognition of their decades of leadership, service, and unwavering commitment to conservation in Iowa.

"For nearly four decades, Sue and Joe Wilkinson have been the absolute heartbeat of grassroots conservation in Iowa," said Collin O'Mara, president and CEO of the National Wildlife Federation. "They don't just advocate for wildlife; they live it. By blending Joe's remarkable ability to transform complex science into riveting stories about Iowa's outdoors with Sue's hands-on work that shows how agriculture and conservation can thrive side-by-side, their leadership represents the best of big tent conservation. Today, they are forging their conservation legacy through their tireless leadership at the Iowa Wildlife Federation and inspiring an entire state to cherish and defend its natural heritage."

As longtime members of the Iowa Wildlife Federation since 1988, Sue and Joe Wilkinson have served in numerous leadership roles while consistently volunteering their time at events, educational programs, and community outreach efforts throughout the state. Today, Sue serves as board treasurer and Joe serves as board secretary, helping guide the organization's operations, communications, and fundraising.

"Strong conservation efforts are built by people who are willing to step up, stay involved, and help create opportunities for others to engage," Sue Wilkinson said. "It's been rewarding to support the Iowa Wildlife Federation's growth and help connect more people and communities to conservation."

Sue Wilkinson provides vital operational leadership for the Iowa Wildlife Federation, working closely with staff on financial oversight, fundraising reconciliation, and organizational development. She also helped establish a partnership with a local printer to launch an online merchandise shop that generates additional support for conservation programs. Her passion for outdoor education helped connect the organization with the University of Iowa's School of the Wild program, further expanding opportunities for youth engagement in nature.

"Conservation succeeds through strong partnerships and shared commitment," Joe Wilkinson said. "We've been fortunate to work alongside so many dedicated people and grateful to be part of an organization that continues to prioritize conservation and public engagement statewide."

Joe Wilkinson brings decades of experience in communications and conservation leadership, including a career with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and previous service as president of the Iowa Wildlife Federation. His background in journalism and public outreach has helped the organization effectively communicate its mission and strengthen relationships with communities and partners nationwide.

The National Wildlife Federation Conservation Achievement Awards began in 1966. Since then, the National Wildlife Federation has celebrated individuals and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to protecting wildlife through education, advocacy, communication and on-the-ground conservation. Previous honorees have included former Presidents Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton, First Ladies Lady Bird Johnson and Michelle Obama, and other national leaders, including U.S. Senator John McCain and filmmaker Robert Redford.