RESTON, Va. — Geralyn Hoey, director of conservation partnerships for Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Texas, has received the National Wildlife Federation’s annual Kent Salazar Director of Conservation Partnerships Award. Hoey is an indispensable leader within the Federation as well as to the affiliates she serves. She is deeply committed to increasing capacity and support for affiliates, and as a steadfast champion of conservation ethics, she has an established track record for advancing wins for wildlife and communities.

“Geralyn doesn't just talk about the vision of One Federation, she puts it into action every single day,” said Collin O’Mara, president and CEO of the National Wildlife Federation. “She is an indispensable force multiplier for our affiliates, diving into complex challenges and turning them into durable conservation victories. Beyond being a trusted problem-solver, her trailblazing role in co-founding Women in Conservation Leadership helped shape a more resilient and inclusive future for our movement. Her tireless work perfectly honors the grassroots legacy and collaborative values of the great Kent Salazar.”

“I am deeply honored to be working with affiliate partners, and it is they who have shown me what is possible when we come together, find common ground and work side by side,” Hoey said. “I am grateful for the vision and commitment of these conservation leaders, who have paved the way for building greater momentum to protect our environment for the wildlife and the people who depend on it.”

Since 2008, Hoey has served as director of conservation partnerships, working collaboratively with fourteen state and territory affiliates across the central and southeastern United States. She has also stepped into several interim leadership roles during critical transition periods, including interim regional executive director, while successfully balancing multiple leadership responsibilities. Her collaborative and entrepreneurial spirit has driven a range of impactful initiatives, such as co-founding the Women in Conservation Leadership Conference.

Geralyn grew up on the outskirts of Tulsa, Oklahoma and spent summers exploring the western Ozarks and backpacking in northern New Mexico. Her love of the outdoors led her to focus on outdoor recreation programming at Oklahoma State University and Western Illinois University. Geralyn lives in Tulsa with her husband, Steve Bender, and their two spaniels.

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.