Leslie Burger, associate teaching professor in the department of wildlife, fisheries, and aquaculture at Mississippi State University, has received the Excellence in Wildlife Education Award from The Wildlife Society, an international organization dedicated to advancing wildlife science and supporting professionals who are committed to conserving wildlife and its habitats.
Dr. Burger, who has been a member of The Wildlife Society since she was an undergraduate student, was honored for her exceptional leadership, teaching, advising, program development, and service to the profession.
At Mississippi State, Dr. Burger currently serves as the undergraduate coordinator for her department and the graduate coordinator for the master’s degree program in conservation education. She began her career with the university as an extension associate in 2008 and joined the faculty five years later. Throughout her career, she has taught and mentored students across multiple levels, including youth and postsecondary students interested in conservation careers. Her teaching often emphasizes practical skills, career readiness, and professional growth.
Dr. Burger received her bachelor’s degree in wildlife biology from Murray State University in Kentucky, a master’s degree in biological sciences from the University of Missouri, and a Ph.D. in forest resources from Mississippi State University.