Each spring, the RMEF recognizes outstanding wildlife science college students through our scholarship program, the Wildlife Leadership Awards (WLA). Established to recognize, encourage and promote leadership among future wildlife management professionals, the program awards scholarships to college juniors and seniors chosen for their leadership ability, dedication to wildlife conservation and scholastic achievements. Awards include a $3,000 scholarship and one-year RMEF membership.

WLA is unique in the conservation world and is extremely well known and highly regarded in academia. The evaluation process used by the selection committee is fair and impartial.

Through 2017, the scholarship program has awarded a total of $339,000 to 185 students. The recipients have come from 63 universities across the U.S. and Canada. Dozens have gone on to pursue careers in wildlife-related fields, and at least four of the recipients have become RMEF employees.

WLA encourages young adults to pursue a career in conservation (wildlife management in particular), and provides a means for them to acquire the in-depth knowledge and experiences necessary to cement their commitment to the cause and become leaders in their field.