We are thrilled to announce that Drake University and the Jay N. Darling Institute have been selected as the host institution for the prestigious Federal Duck Stamp Contest this fall. This esteemed event brings together passionate individuals and organizations dedicated to wildlife conservation and the arts.  The Federal Duck Stamp Contest will take place at the Olmsted Center Sept. 15–16, 2023. The link to the Federal Duck Stamp website is: https://www.fws.gov/program/federal-duck-stamp/federal-duck-stamp-contest-event-information

As a complementary event to the competition, please mark your calendars and join us for an afternoon of art, conversation, and appreciation for our natural heritage.

Date: Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023
Time: 2–4 p.m.
Location: Cowles Library Reading Room

Panelists:

• Suzanne Fellows, Duck Stamp Program Manager, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
• Rich and Nancy Houk, National Duck Stamp Collectors Society
• Hope Bibens, Director of University Archives & Special Collections, Drake University
• Alanna Wuensch, Drake University Student and Steering Committee Member
• John P. Smith, Drake University Vice President for University Advancement

The Federal Duck Stamp Contest is an annual art competition that determines the image for the Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp, commonly known as the Duck Stamp. This stamp plays a vital role in raising funds for habitat conservation and protecting wildlife across the United States.

We are honored to have an exceptional panel of experts for this year’s contest. Suzanne Fellows, the Duck Stamp Program Manager from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in wildlife conservation. Rich and Nancy Houk, representing the National Duck Stamp Collectors Society, will contribute his vast experience in the field of philately and stamp collecting. Finally, we are delighted to have Hope Bibens, Director of University Archives & Special Collections at Drake University, who will provide valuable insights into the intersection of art and history.

We invite all members of the Drake University community to attend this exciting event. It is a unique opportunity to witness the selection process and engage with experts in the field. You will have the chance to learn more about the significance of the Duck Stamp program, the importance of wildlife conservation, and the artistry behind stamp design.

Please RSVP to erica.hartschen@drake.edu or 515-271-4990 by Aug. 4.

— Erica Hartschen, University Advancement