Award applications are now open for emerging professionals during the 2025-2026 season.
The Williston Fund supports all of WCG’s Emerging Professional members by providing networking opportunities through social activities, lab tours, workshops, and more. In addition, the Guild awards up to five recipients with:
- Free WCG professional organization membership
- Reduced registration fees for WCG sponsored workshops and events
- Reimbursement for Emerging Professional membership to the American Institute for Conservation (AIC)
Award recipients are given first priority to present their work at the Emerging Professionals meeting in April 2026 and will be asked to assist the WCG board with meeting administration, such as writing lecture summaries to be published on the website. These are great opportunities for emerging conservators to network with area professionals and learn more about our field.
Williston Fund applications are open to all Emerging Professionals in the DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia area including students, recent graduates, volunteers, interns, and fellows. Priority will be given to those who have not previously been awarded the Williston Fund.
The application is available at this link: Sidney S. Williston Fund Application
Questions? Contact EPC@washingtonconservationguild.org
Applications are due by 5:00 PM EST on Sunday, 21 September 2025.
Award recipients will be notified via email and announced at the October 2nd in-person meeting.
2025/2026 WCG season memberships are $35 for professionals, $25 for renewing emerging professionals, and free to emerging professionals who are entering their first season as a WCG member.
Join or renew at www.washingtonconservationguild.org/membership.
For more information about the Williston Fund or WCG, please visit www.washingtonconservationguild.org
