U of Montana Lands $5.5 Million Waterfowl/Wetlands Research Gift

It's a monumental step in advancing University of Montana efforts to construct a state-of-the-art hub for conservation research and education. Let's take a look.

JAMES C. KENNEDY WATERFOWL AND WETLANDS CENTER

UM News Service tells us that the University of Montana has announced a significant gift from Chairman Emeritus of Cox Enterprises and Chairman of the James M. Cox Foundation Jim Kennedy to establish a new academic and research center within the W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation. 

The James C. Kennedy Waterfowl and Wetlands Center will strengthen UM’s nationally recognized Wildlife Biology Program and expand its leadership in research, innovation and stewardship. Kennedy’s generous $5.5 million gift to the UM Foundation will support the new center’s groundbreaking operations and secure its place within the University’s planned new home for the W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation. 

LONG-TERM BENEFITS

According to the press release, "The gift also further empowers the W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation as an important educational and economic driver across multiple industries, working with both public and private partners in finding unbiased, data-driven solutions to some of the biggest challenges facing the West. The center will be vital in securing healthy wetlands and waterfowl populations, ensuring the future of Montana’s abundant natural resources and sustaining recreational opportunities in the state and beyond. The center’s work will have profound environmental and economic impact throughout the region."

READ MORE: Brainy Idea To Help High School Kids Lands UM $1.3 Million Grant

ABOUT THE GENEROUS DONOR

An avid nature enthusiast, James C. Kennedy has a long history of living and working in the West. After attending college at the University of Denver, he began his career in media working for newspapers in Colorado. Since 2008, he has endowed waterfowl and wetlands conservation programs at several universities. 

According to Mr. Kennedy, “The Wildlife Biology Program at the University of Montana has a great reputation. When I talk to the folks there, I sense their passion and commitment. I really think the University of Montana has earned this program, and I wouldn’t have committed to it if I didn’t feel very strongly that it was the right place to invest in work I care so much about.”    

More details on the Waterfowl and Wetlands Center project can be found here.