EDGEFIELD, S.C.— Emma Wasden of Wetumpka, Alabama, experienced a moment of pure joy when her local Elmore County NWTF Chapter surprised her with the prestigious 2024 Dr. James Earl Kennamer Academic Scholarship, sponsored by Mossy Oak. Along with the national recognition, Wasden received a $10,000 check to support her future endeavors.
“I’m really excited to receive this scholarship; it’s an incredible opportunity to deepen my involvement with the NWTF,” said Wasden. “Through the Elmore County NWTF Chapter, I’ve been able to volunteer at local JAKES events, where I helped promote conservation and educate others. The connections I’ve made have been invaluable, and I’m excited to continue this journey.”
As the recipient of both the NWTF Dr. James Earl Kennamer National Academic Scholarship and the Alabama State Chapter Scholarship, Wasden has distinguished herself as a passionate conservationist, hunter, intellectual and committed community steward. Throughout her high school career at Wetumpka High School, she achieved academic excellence, maintaining straight A’s and graduating as the top student in her class.
Wasden will be attending Troy University, where she plans to pursue a degree in athletic training.
In addition to her academic achievements, Wasden’s high school years were marked by leadership roles and extensive extracurricular involvement. Her impressive resume includes:
- National Honors Society
- Class President
- Skills USA Secretary
- Fellowship of Christian Athletes Leader
- Tribal Council
- Television Production Team
- Varsity Soccer Team
- Phi Theta Kappa
The NWTF is proud to have awarded over $5.5 million in academic scholarships to students across North America who demonstrate a strong commitment to conservation, academic excellence and leadership.
“It is an honor to present Emma with the 2024 Dr. James Earl Kennamer Scholarship,” NWTF co-CEO Kurt Dyroff said. “Her academic excellence, student leadership, and involvement in the NWTF’s mission has earned her this achievement. As she begins a new journey, we have no doubt she will be a leader and ambassador for the NWTF. Congratulations, Emma!”
About the National Wild Turkey Federation
Since 1973, the National Wild Turkey Federation has invested over half a billion dollars into wildlife conservation and has positively impacted over 23 million acres of critical wildlife habitat. The NWTF has also invested over $10 million into wild turkey research to guide the management of the wild turkey population and to ensure sustainable populations into perpetuity. The organization continues to deliver its mission by working across boundaries on a landscape scale through its Four Shared Values: clean and abundant water, healthy forests and wildlife habitat, resilient communities, and robust recreational opportunities. With the help of its dedicated members, partners and staff, the NWTF continues its work to provide Healthy Habitats. and Healthy Harvests. for future generations.
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