We are excited to announce that the application process for the 2026 Texas Women in Conservation Terry Hershey Award is now open!

This prestigious award honors outstanding women who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in conservation, environmental stewardship, and community engagement across Texas. The nomination criteria is noted below. The application is available online and will remain open until Friday, January 30, 2026. We encourage you to nominate a woman who has made a significant impact in the field. Let’s come together to celebrate and honor the incredible women shaping the future of conservation in Texas!

AWARD NOMINATION CRITERIA  

In evaluating applications for the Texas Women in Conservation Terry Hershey Award, special consideration will be given to candidates who exhibit the following:  

• A deep and enduring passion for nature that fosters a sense of belonging and connection within communities to the outdoors. 
• A strong emphasis on conservation and conservation education that invites everyone to participate in protecting our environment. 
• Exceptional dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment that inspires and empowers future leaders from all backgrounds. 
• Unwavering persistence in achieving conservation outcomes, encouraging collective action and shared success. 
• A commitment to initiatives focused on habitat preservation, restoration, environmental education and outreach, and enhancement of our natural world, enriching the quality of life for all members of the community. 
• The development of innovative initiatives in habitat preservation, restoration, environmental education and outreach, and enhancement of our natural world, that create positive, inclusive impacts on the community, ensuring that everyone feels connected to and invested in our shared environment. 

2026 AWARD CATEGORIES

As we consider potential nominees, we invite you to reflect on the following categories of achievement that celebrate diverse contributions to conservation: 

Trailblazer

This category honors individuals who have demonstrated persistence, innovation, and extraordinary commitment to conservation, significantly advancing conservation science, practices, or community engagement. Potential nominees may embody one or more of the following qualities: 

• Innovation in research or conservation practices that inspire and include a broad range of voices. 
• Success in social engagement and community education that brings people together. 
• Long-term commitment and persistence in advancing conservation efforts across Texas, fostering a sense of shared responsibility. 
• Outstanding achievement in policy or public advocacy that creates equitable opportunities for all. 
• Representation of the next generation of conservation leadership, ensuring diverse perspectives are valued and heard. 

Emerging Leader

This category recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a strong commitment to conservation through their profession. Potential nominees may come from a variety of fields, including, but not limited to: 

• Academics/researchers 
• Educators 
• Industry professionals 
• Journalists/communications specialists 
• Land/natural resource managers/landowners 
• Legal and policy experts 
• Local municipalities, state and federal government agencies 
• NGO/non-profit leaders 

Champion

This category celebrates individuals who have made significant contributions to conservation through their philanthropic actions or support. Potential nominees may have demonstrated their commitment through: 

• Organization building that enhances conservation efforts and fosters community involvement. 
• Strategic investments that drive meaningful change in conservation practices. 
• Long-term support that empowers diverse conservation initiatives. 
• Next-generation leadership that inspires inclusivity and collective action in conservation efforts. 

A steering committee composed of past honorees, Audubon Texas advisory board members, community partners, and Audubon staff selects honorees from submitted applicants, ensuring a thoughtful and inclusive process. Awardees will be announced Spring of 2026.