Matt Ihnken is a Certified Wildlife Biologist® and the Solar Wildlife Lead at NextEra Energy Resources, LLC. He graduated from the University of Minnesota with a degree in Fish and Wildlife Biology. Matt has held numerous positions within The Wildlife Society over the years. He believes that working groups and state chapters are a critical piece of The Wildlife Society, providing members a place to go to discuss issues important to them, but also providing guidance to the TWS board. His goal is to continue to increase the presence of the Michigan Chapter both to members and the TWS board and give members an opportunity to have a voice in policy discussions and decisions in the Great Lakes State and beyond.

Clay is a wildlife ecologist at Michigan Natural Features Inventory (MNFI) where he develops mammal population surveys and inventories natural communities and forest resources. He received his B.S. in Natural Resources at Central Michigan University and his M.S. in Wildlife Ecology at Mississippi State University.

My name is Rachel Kanaziz. I am currently a Wildlife Technician with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Prior to working for the DNR, I completed my undergraduate studies at Adrian College where I triple majored in English, Biology, and Environmental Science. I earned my Master’s Degree in Wildlife Ecology at Colorado State University (CSU) where I spent my summers at the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory researching life history on ground squirrels. I first became involved with TWS while attending CSU when I joined the organization as a member. More recently, I attended the 2024 MITWS Annual Conference and plan to attend again in 2025. Throughout my involvement with TWS, I have been inspired by the TWS members and their genuine excitement and care for all things wildlife and each other. As a growing professional, I am excited to facilitate new relationships, forge new paths forward, and contribute to the success of the professional and ecological communities by which we are surrounded.

I am a dedicated wildlife conservationist with a diverse background in veterinary medicine, zoology, and wildlife rehabilitation, and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the organization. With a Bachelor’s degree in Zoology, I have gained comprehensive knowledge of animal biology and ecology, which I’ve applied in hands-on roles, including an international internship in wildlife conservation. I am hopeful and eager to leverage my unique skill set and experiences to help shape the activities of the Michigan Chapter, drive impactful conservation initiatives, and strengthen the chapter’s network of professionals. As a board member, I can bring a hands-on approach to decision-making and a deep commitment to advancing wildlife protection in our region.

I am a professor in the Wildlife Biology and Natural Resources Management programs at Grand Valley State. I received my BS (biology) and MS (natural resources management) from UW-Stevens Point and my Ph.D. (fisheries and wildlife) from MI state. I have previously served as an executive board member and treasurer for the MI TWS chapter and I am happy to serve the chapter again.

Samantha Courtney is a Deer Biologist with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. After receiving her B.S. from Michigan State University (MSU), she spent five years traveling the country working various wildlife jobs. She began graduate school at MSU focusing on deer behavior in relation to chronic wasting disease, receiving her M.S. in 2023.

Brett is the Unit Leader of the new USGS Michigan Fish and Wildlife Cooperative Research Unit. Prior to that he was the Unit Leader at the Arkansas Unit. He’s a wildlife biologist with an interest in studying the behavior, ecology, and conservation of underappreciated wildlife such as skunk, opossum, and armadillos. His favorite thing to do is throw out game cameras in an area to see what’s there. In addition to wildlife research Brett enjoys working with students, birding, and trying to visit each of Michigan’s State Parks with his wife, Valerie.