Thank you to everyone who was able to attend the Hunter Education Conference. The conference was a success thanks to your participation and our Platinum Sponsor Hornady. Everyone enjoyed their time listening to our great speakers and live music, good food and weather, and of course, the Husker win over Colorado! We also had fun at the shooting range and some went home with prizes, and others with new glasses to hopefully help them shoot better next time!

Shawn Riley of Brule, Nebraska was the recipient of the 2023 Dick Turpin Hunter Education Instructor of the Year Award. He has been a staple at the Outdoor Discovery Programs, Hunter Outreach programs, supportive of the Nebraska Bowhunter Association, and many Hunter Education classes. He has been known to bring smiles to all those around him at these programs and is always willing to give a hand whenever called upon. Unfortunately, Shawn was unable to attend due to family health reasons, so his son, Elkanah Riley, accepted the award on his behalf.

Sharon Dahl of St. Paul, Nebraska was the recipient for the 2023 Estella Wolfe Female Hunter Education Instructor of the Year Award. The legacy of Hunter Education at the Grand Island Rifle Club, lead by Sharon, is told by the many pictures on the walls where today, the students from those pictures are bringing their children back to the same program. Her roots have gone deep in teaching Hunter Education and her passion for the program is felt by all. 

Joe Bober of Omaha, Nebraska was the recipient of the 2023 Master Hunter Education Instructor of the Year Award. During the high demand era of in person course, he mastered the art of teaching large classes in the metro area. Through his work with the nights of the Columbus, he hosted many instructor meetings, trainings, and most importantly incredible meals bringing instructors together in eastern Nebraska. No challenge is too big, including hosting an impromptu candle light dinner during the last eastern instructor meeting when the power went out.