Bryant and Kleberg to be Inducted into the 2017 Texas Conservation Hall of Fame

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation has selected Stephen J. “Tio” Kleberg and Dr. Fred C. Bryant to be inducted in the 2017 Texas Conservation Hall of Fame. They are being honored for their individual achievements and their work together at the Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute (CKWRI).

Bryant is the Leroy G. Denman, Jr. Endowed Director of the CKWRI at Texas A&M University- Kingsville. The institute provides science-based information for enhancing the conservation and management of wildlife.

Stephen J. “Tio” Kleberg is a member of the King Ranch Board of Directors and a member of the legendary King Ranch family. He is a trustee of the Caesar Kleberg Foundation for Wildlife Conservation. In addition, Kleberg serves as 1st Vice Chairman of the Texas A&M University-Kingsville Foundation and is a member of the CKWRI Advisory Board.

“Tio Kleberg and Dr. Bryant are true visionaries who have committed their lives to promoting conservation across our state and beyond” President Dr. Steven Tallant said. “Their leadership has made The Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute the leading wildlife research organization in Texas and one of the best in the nation. We are excited and proud that both men are being honored for the passion they share for conservation. The state of management and wildlife in Texas is better because of their work.”

Bryant received his Bachelor of Science degree in Wildlife Management from Texas Tech University, followed by his master’s degree from Utah State University and a Ph.D. from Texas A&M University. His research interests are in the field of livestock-wildlife relationships and habitat management.

Kleberg graduated from Texas Tech with a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science. His dedication to Texas A&M-Kingsville has extended over three decades. He and his wife, Janell,  co-chaired the university’s first capital campaign from 2005-2008 and were instrumental in securing funds to construct a wildlife research park at Texas A&M University-Kingsville, which was subsequently named in their honor.

Bryant and Kleberg will be honored at the Texas Conservation Hall of Fame dinner and concert at Moody Theatre in Austin on April 6, 2017.