During Calendar Year 2023, the 10 largest DU events, including various sources of income and Major Sponsor contributions, collectively raised an impressive $7,116,299 for wetlands and waterfowl conservation
The foundation of Ducks Unlimited’s success can be attributed to the hard work and dedication of its local fundraising chapters and the professional staff who partner with them. During Calendar Year 2023, the 10 largest DU events, including various sources of income and Major Sponsor contributions, collectively raised an impressive $7,116,299 for wetlands and waterfowl conservation.
Lake Forest Area Banquet
Area Chair: Spencer Bleecker
Senior Regional Director: Rodney Schlafer
Director of Development: TJ Verdun
Chapter Success: $1,547,623
Maintaining its prestigious position for the third consecutive year, the Lake Forest Area Banquet secured the #1 spot on this year’s list. Building upon its previous success, the Lake Forest Area Chapter once again orchestrated an extraordinary evening dedicated to conservation. The chapter consists of an impassioned group of conservationists who consistently rise to the occasion. Rodney Schlafer, senior regional director for the event, acknowledged the exceptional efforts of the Lake Forest Area Committee, noting, “They always ensure that it is a memorable night for our attendees and volunteers, and they aim to sustain this success for years to come.”
11th Anniversary Blackhawk Diamond Gala
Area Chairs: Paul Bonderson Jr., David Grieve, and Pepper Snyder
Regional Director: Garrett Williams
Senior Director of Development: Anne Hansen
Chapter Success: $926,981
More than 150 people gathered at the Blackhawk Auto Museum for the 11th Anniversary Diamond Gala in Danville, California. Co-chair and past DU President Paul Bonderson Jr. exclaimed, “It was another great Blackhawk event! I would like to thank David and Pepper for continuing to provide great auction items and the supporters who buy them. Snyder added, “I would like to thank all our loyal supporters who have been attending our dinners for years. Their support is so greatly appreciated.”
Houston Evening of Conservation
Area Chair: Mac Bullock
Senior Regional Director: Jason McKey
Director of Development: Rusty Baker
Chapter Success: $885,505
Under the leadership of Area Chair Mac Bullock, this group of highly motivated and dedicated volunteers and staff set out to make this one of the top Ducks Unlimited events in 2023. The Houston Chapter’s Evening of Conservation was hosted by the premier outdoor store Gordy & Sons Outfitters. Senior Regional Director Jason McKey spoke to this partnership: “This very unique event happened thanks to the generosity of the Gordy family. Their willingness to host this event in their truly magnificent hunting and fishing store here in Houston is simply an honor.”
Kenosha DU ULINE Event
Area Chair: Chad Navis
Senior Regional Director: Tom Munich
Director of Development: André Carriveau
Chapter Success: $765,010
Hosted by Mr. and Mrs. Uihlein, the Kenosha Chapter’s annual banquet held at ULINE’s Corporate Conference Center continues to make a significant difference for waterfowl habitat. In fact, the 2023 event set a new record, raising over $765,000 in support of DU’s vital conservation mission. Kenosha Area Chair and Wisconsin State Chair Chad Navis said, “This support not only reflects the commitment that the event hosts have for the habitat conservation work that DU delivers, but also serves as a catalyst to band together other like-minded members of the region’s business community to join in supporting Ducks Unlimited’s conservation mission.”
Denver Sponsor Gala
Area Chairs: Larry Suedmeier and Pete Eckes
Senior Regional Director: Erik Wettersten
Director of Development: Scott McGraw
Chapter Success: $670,473
Maintaining the Denver Sponsor Gala’s reputation as a uniquely fast-paced and fun night, the Denver Committee once again ranked in DU’s Top 10. From custom merchandise and original art to signature cocktails and a live duck display on the stage, this event is truly one of a kind. Highlighting the evening was an auction featuring the exclusive Colorado Governor’s Shiras Moose Tag—a bucket list item in the Centennial State. Senior Regional Director Erik Wettersten explained, “The talent, energy, and dedication of this team exemplify what is great about DU’s volunteer-led model. I am honored to be part of this committed team that gives so much of themselves for our conservation legacy.”
Annual Oyster Roast and Lowcountry Cookout at SEWE
Area Chair: Dr. Mark Hartley
Senior Regional Director: James Meadows
Director of Development: Tanner Quattlebaum
Chapter Success: $642,466
This 26th annual event, held in conjunction with the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE) in Charleston, South Carolina, was yet another record-breaking night for the East Cooper Chapter. Reflecting on the committee’s accomplishments, Area Chair Dr. Mark Hartley shared his enthusiasm: “Every year this committee has found a way to top the previous year’s success. We certainly could not have done this without a super group of hard-working volunteers, each with DU’s purpose in their hearts.” Senior Regional Director James Meadows added, “There is something special about being in Charleston during SEWE weekend, and this year was no exception. DU is grateful for the partnership with SEWE and their support of our conservation efforts in the Lowcountry.”
Baton Rouge Sponsor Banquet
Area Chairs: Amber Moreau and Lea Benoit
Senior Regional Director: Zac Brown
Director of Development: Erin Brown
Chapter Success: $474,142
This year’s Baton Rouge Sponsor Banquet saw an outstanding turnout, which broke the attendance record. This event honored Lamar Advertising for their 25-plus years of support for DU’s conservation work in coastal Louisiana. This committee’s tireless efforts and commitment consistently elevate the support for DU’s conservation mission. Senior Regional Director Zac Brown noted, “Honoring Lamar Advertising was truly a privilege for us and the members of the Baton Rouge Committee. Their dedication to DU and the Louisiana Gulf Coast Initiative was the driving force behind the success of our event.”
Houston Legacy Gala
Area Chair: Mac Bullock
Senior Regional Director: Jason McKey
Director of Development: Rusty Baker
Chapter Success: $473,954
The Houston Legacy Gala, one of Texas DU’s most prominent events, receives tremendous support from Houston business leaders and conservation-oriented corporations. This year, the event served as a platform to celebrate and pay tribute to Phillips 66, the deserving recipient of DU’s 2023 Conservation Stewardship Award. This esteemed group has a long-standing history as DU volunteers, significant contributors, and unwavering advocates of the organization’s wetlands and waterfowl conservation mission. Houston Area Chair Mac Bullock stated, “I am very proud and honored to work with all the Houston Chapter volunteers and the tireless efforts they put forth to make sure the Legacy Gala is a huge success.”
Lafayette Sponsor Banquet
Area Chairs: Quinn Salmon and Beau Phares
Regional Director: Austin Mouton
Senior Director of Development: Bob Dew
Chapter Success: $371,425
The Lafayette Sponsor Banquet was another fantastic night celebrating the rich legacy of conservation in the Lafayette area. Reflecting on the evening, Area Chair Quinn Salmon expressed his appreciation: “I am incredibly proud and thankful for the community of Lafayette. Year after year they show up for Ducks Unlimited, and this year’s Sponsor Banquet was a testament to their generosity. I look forward to next year.”
Seattle Dinner and Auction
Area Chair: Scott Gunning
Regional Director: Dan Heep
Director of Development: Matt Kayser
Chapter Success: $358,720
The annual Seattle Dinner and Auction brought together 150 DU supporters, all sharing a passion for conservation and support for this longtime “mega event.” Reflecting on the evening, Area Chair Scott Gunning noted, “This event would not be possible without the tremendous dedication and support of our table captains and their guests who attended and gave so generously. We were inspired, energized, and entertained as we raised support for Ducks Unlimited’s vital conservation work in Washington and beyond.”
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