University of Montana Receives Major Donation to Boost Wildlife Research
The University of Montana has announced a transformative $5.5 million donation aimed at bolstering its Wildlife Biology Program. This generous contribution will establish the James C. Kennedy Waterfowl and Wetlands Center, a new research operation integrated into the W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation.
According to UM’s announcement, this donation not only enhances the Wildlife Biology Program but also secures the center’s position in the college’s planned new facilities. “The gift also further empowers the W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation as an important educational and economic driver,” the news release stated.
The funding comes from Jim Kennedy, chairman emeritus of Cox Enterprises and chairman of the James M. Cox Foundation. Cox Enterprises is known for its innovations in various sectors, including automotive and journalism, with brands such as Kelley Blue Book and Axios under its umbrella.
UM noted that its connection with Kennedy dates back to the 1990s through seminars on ranching and wildlife, facilitated by former Wildlife Biology Program Director Dan Pletscher. Kennedy has been a long-time supporter, endowing similar conservation programs at various universities.
Since 2007, Kennedy has backed three endowed positions at UM, earning him the inaugural Conservator of Montana’s Wildlife Award in 2025. Kennedy expressed his admiration for the team’s “passion and commitment” in a statement released by UM.
Described as “state of the art,” the new center will employ innovative technology to aid in the conservation of natural resources and habitats, expanding its influence beyond Montana. “I really think the University of Montana has earned this program,” said Kennedy in UM’s statement.
Libby Metcalf, the college’s dean, emphasized that the new center would elevate UM’s status as a leading institution in waterfowl and wetlands research. Chad Bishop, director of the Wildlife Biology Program, highlighted Kennedy’s dedication to conservation, noting, “We are grateful for his investment and will work especially hard to better inform management decisions.”
Kennedy’s conservation efforts extend beyond UM; he has served as chairman for the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission and on the board of Ducks Unlimited. Cox Enterprises has also established a $100 million fund through Ducks Unlimited Wetlands America Trust, honoring Kennedy’s efforts to conserve prairie lands across North America.
This initiative coincides with a $20 million campaign to support the college’s new building, set to become a hub for conservation research and education. The private fundraising will unlock $52 million from the Montana Legislature, marking it as the largest single-facility investment in the Montana University System’s history. Construction of the new facility is slated to begin in 2027, alongside the existing Forestry Building.
