Contact: Vanessa Beeson
STARKVILLE, Miss.—Ray Iglay, an assistant professor in Mississippi State’s Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Aquaculture, is among a handful of wildlife professionals throughout the U.S. and Canada newly recognized as a fellow of The Wildlife Society.
The Wildlife Society was founded in 1937 and includes more than 11,000 leaders in wildlife science, management and conservation across North America. TWS Fellows are wildlife professionals engaged with the international organization with more than a decade of service. Iglay has been a TWS member for more than 20 years. As a Certified Wildlife Biologist and scientist in the Forest and Wildlife Research Center, his research focuses on wildlife restoration, wildlife damage management and the application of precision technologies in wildlife conservation and science. He has authored 44 peer-reviewed publications and mentored more than 30 post-doctorates, graduate and undergraduate students and staff.
“I am honored to have been recognized as a TWS Fellow. It is truly amazing to have received it at this point in my career, and I am very thankful for it,” he said.
Iglay said support from fellow colleagues has helped him engage with the organization in meaningful and impactful ways.
“Throughout my time at Mississippi State University, I have been surrounded by TWS advocates who helped pair my interests in professional service with opportunities in TWS. From local volunteer opportunities with student and state chapters to serving in leadership roles for our regional section and working groups, I have been blessed with multiple chances to serve my profession, build a network of phenomenal wildlife professionals and better understand the future outlook of our profession including opportunities for our MSU students,” he said.
Some of his TWS-elected leadership roles include past president, president and president-elect of the Southeastern Section from 2018-2023; secretary and treasurer of the Mississippi Chapter from 2016-2017 and past-president, president and interim president-elect of the Mississippi Chapter from 2012-2014. He currently serves as a volunteer instructor and co-coordinator for the Southeastern Section of the TWS Field Course and has previously served as a mentor, co-advisor, reviewer and webmaster on various programs.
“The Wildlife Society has been a strong supporter of my success through networking opportunities and leadership development,” he said.
For more on MSU’s Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Aquaculture in the College of Forest Resources, visit www.wildlifefisheries.msstate.edu.
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