by Jordan Voigt - Saturday, July 20, 2019
For more good news from the Trump administration on the fish and wildlife conservation front, U.S. Department of The Interior (DOI) Secretary David Bernhardt is lauding President Donald J. Trump’s nomination of Aurelia Skipwith as the director of the DOI’s U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). As noted in a DOI press release on Thursday, Bernhardt explained, “Aurelia is a leader within the department who has helped us execute our initiatives as outlined by President Trump, I look forward to her prompt confirmation, so she can continue her service to the American people.”
Skipwith, who has been serving as USFWS deputy assistant secretary, holds degrees from multiple universities, including a bachelor’s degree in biology from Howard University, a master’s degree in molecular biology from Purdue University and a doctorate from the University of Kentucky’s College of Law. While maintaining her educational and professional responsibilities, she was active in Habitat for Humanity and Big Brothers/Big Sisters programs. Skipwith is currently tasked as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Fish, Wildlife and Parks at the DOI where she and her team are responsible for national park and wildlife refuge land protection and stewardship.
Hunter-backed conservation groups have shown their support for Skipwith’s confirmation over the last several days including the National Rifle Association (NRA). “Aurelia Skipwith is an excellent choice for the director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service,” said Jason Ouimet, interim executive director of the NRA’s Institute for Legislative Action (ILA). “Skipwith is uniquely qualified for the post and dedicated to wildlife conservation and conserving America’s great hunting heritage. I congratulate Aurelia on her renomination.”
Citing support from numerous other groups, the press release concluded, “The American Farm Bureau Federation is very pleased with President Trump's nomination of Aurelia Skipwith for Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, said its president Zippy Duvall. “During her time as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Fish, Wildlife, and Parks, Ms. Skipwith has demonstrated her commitment to conservation and respect for just and balanced land use. Her proven leadership will be a valued asset for the Fish and Wildlife Service.”
If confirmed, Skipwith would be the first African American to hold the position.
About the Author: Jordan Voigt is a lifelong, passionate outdoorsman. He has hunted in several countries and numerous states. He lives in Montana with his wife and two sons and stays busy teaching them about the outdoors. You can follow him on Instagram at @jordan.voigt.
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