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| Photo by David J. Swift |
third-generation Wyoming rancher John F. Turner will receive the National Museum of WildlifeArt prestigious Rungius Medal on November 3, 2010, in the museum's Cook Auditorium at 10:30 a.m.
Created in 1988, the award recognizes individuals who "have made a significant addition to the public's awareness of wildlife and the habitat necessary for its survival." Turner, whose numerous accomplishments on behalf of the natural world include establishing 55 new National Wildlife Refuges.
"With his strong record of protecting wildlife, habitat and natural resources on a national level as well as his personal deep connection to the land, John F. Turner is a perfect candidate for our Rungius Medal, and we're honored to be presenting him with it," said Jim McNutt, National Museum of Wildlife Art president and CEO.
Prior to his Assistant Secretary appointment (2001-2005), Turner served as CEO of The Conservation Fund, protecting more than 2.8 million acres of parks, habitat, and open space with the national nonprofit. He also served as the Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (1989-1993), where he increased wetland protection and established the most National Wildlife Refuges of any U.S. administration. Other past positions include 19 years in the Wyoming State Legislature, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the
Bank of Jackson Hole, and Chairman of the Institute of Environment and Natural Resources at the University of Wyoming.
The Rungius Medal http://www.wildlifeart.org/Information/RungiusMedal is the museum's highest honor, reflecting its ongoing role of furthering the national conversation about humanity and nature. Symbolized by a gold medallion named for artist Carl Rungius, America's preeminent portrayer of animals and their surroundings, the medal is awarded to "individuals who have made lifetime and extraordinary contributions to the artistic interpretation and preservation of the world's natural heritage." Past recipients include Mardy Murie (1989), Roger Tory Peterson (1994) and Jane Goodall (2001).
The Rungius Medal award ceremony for John F. Turner is open to the public and will be followed by a reception with refreshments; those planning to attend the reception should respond to Shawn Meisl at 307.732.5449 or by email at smeisl@wildlifeart.org
