Scholarships

California Waterfowl offers a number of scholarships to get youth into the field and support educational goals.

Scroll down to learn about First Flight and the Dennis Raveling scholarships.

 

California Waterfowl's First Flight Program

 

THE BEGINNING OF SOMETHING LASTING

The First Flight Program is California Waterfowl’s signature youth initiative—an all-inclusive celebration of one of the greatest milestones in the outdoors: a young hunter’s very first duck and first hunt.

This isn’t just about introducing youth to waterfowl hunting—it’s about honoring the excitement, pride, and lifelong connection to nature that comes with that unforgettable day.

 

Opportunities For the Hunt, and Beyond

The First Flight Program offers youth outdoor experiences and academic opportunities.

Together, these opportunities build responsibility, respect for wildlife, and a love for wetlands—ensuring tomorrow’s conservation leaders begin their journey with a strong foundation in both tradition and stewardship.

 

A Legacy That’s Growing

This program was launched through the generosity of Johnny A. Ribeiro Jr., whose passion for youth, wetlands, and hunting made First Flight possible. With additional support, First Flight can expand its reach—creating more memories, more opportunities, and inspiring countless young people to embrace both hunting and conservation for years to come. To learn how you can contribute, contact VP Fund and Membership Development Scott Mueller, smueller@calwaterfowl.org.

More information coming in October, 2026. 

 

The Dennis Raveling Scholarship

The Dennis Raveling Scholarship for Waterfowl Research is awarded annually to a student(s) with a desire to pursue a career in waterfowl or wetlands ecology.  Awards are based on the candidate's resolve, high academic achievement, and project merit.  Candidates must be pursuing an advanced university degree in: Wildlife, Zoology, Botany, Ecology, or other pertinent biological science.  Applicants should submit a proposal summary description (limit-2 pages) on an original research project which should include a brief explanation of how findings would be useful in conservation management.  Applicants should be prepared to submit a detailed project proposal if requested.  The Scholarship is intended to support field experience and training in the tools, methods, and concepts of waterfowl and wetlands research and management.  A committee composed of waterfowl professionals representing the legacy of Dennis Raveling will select the winning candidates. 

There will be 2 Awards given this year.

  • 1st Place will be $5,000
  • 2nd Place will be $2,500

Applicants will need to submit a resume and a study proposal or statement of no more than two pages. The proposal or statement should explain the course of study for which they need support. This material must be accompanied by a letter from a faculty member indicating willingness to sponsor the candidate. The names and phone numbers of two references are also required (include at least one University instructor and/or previous employment supervisor). 

Submission date: December 15th, 2026.

Submit the Application Package as a single PDF including:          

  • Proposal Summary: single-spaced, maximum 2 pages
  • CV/Resume
  • Statement of Interest
  • Letter of Support from faculty member
  • Names and phone numbers of two references

Email your application to: Mia Gray at mgray@calwaterfowl.org

 

 

2025 Dennis Raveling scholarship winners:

 

2024 Dennis Raveling scholarship winners:

 

2023 Dennis Raveling scholarship winners:

 

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