The Ruffed Grouse Society & American Woodcock Society (RGS & AWS) has tapped Katie McKalip to lead its communications and marketing programs. McKalip brings more than two decades’ experience working with outdoors groups to grow organizational narratives, effectiveness and brands, having successfully guided numerous influential organizations in the hunting and angling space.
McKalip comes to RGS & AWS from her role with Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, where beginning in 2015 she worked to raise BHA’s profile as one of the fastest growing outdoor organizations in North America. Prior to that, she worked for the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, where she helped realize TRCP founder Jim Range’s vision for the organization advancing national conservation policy and building strategic community partnerships.
McKalip is a leader in outdoor media circles, as well, having recently completed a term as President and Board Chair of the Outdoor Writers Association of America (OWAA). In 2022, she was the recipient of OWAA’s prestigious Jade of Chiefs award, presented annually for an individual’s overall impact on national conservation issues.
Ben Jones, President and CEO of RGS & AWS, welcomed McKalip to her role.
“From our earliest discussions, it was clear that Katie loves to see conservation in action. She understands the core ideals of sustainable forestry and what they mean to wildlife and communities. Katie is vested in this endeavor, and we look forward to her leadership,” said Jones.
McKalip, who enjoys hunting, fishing, floating, hiking and recreating outdoors with her family, brings a commitment to sustainable forests and habitat to her work with RGS & AWS.
“Nothing thrills me more than the opportunity to advance impactful work being done in the name of conservation,” said McKalip. “I feel privileged to be given the chance to contribute to – and elevate – the 60-plus years’ record of accomplishment at RGS & AWS as well as the exceptional work happening by staff and volunteers every day to support healthy forest lands, abundant wildlife and a strong conservation ethic.”
About the Ruffed Grouse Society & American Woodcock Society
Established in 1961, the Ruffed Grouse Society unites conservationists to improve wildlife habitat and forest health and promote a conservation ethic, all grounded in the tenets of science-based management practices. Learn more about RGS & AWS via our website. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X or YouTube.
