New Department of Conservation Director Appointed

Chairman Anita Gorman, Kansas City, speaking on behalf of the Missouri Conservation Commission, announced today the appointment of John D. Hoskins, 47, as the seventh director of the Missouri Department of Conservation since its formation in 1937. Mr. Hoskins, a native of Carter County, resides in Jefferson City and has been with the Department since 1977, serving as Conservation Agent, Regional Protection Supervisor, Chief of General Services and presently as Protection Division Administrator. He attended both the University of Missouri - Columbia and Southeast Missouri State University on scholarships and graduated magna cum laude  from Southeast Missouri State University in 1975 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Education with a biology major. He recently completed his Master of Public Administration degree at the University of Missouri, achieving membership in Pi Alpha Alpha National Honor Society. Janet Hoskins, his wife of 29 years, is employed as a principal in the Jefferson City public school system. John and Janet have two sons, Jay and Jeff, who are recent graduates of the University of Missouri - Rolla.

In announcing the unanimous selection of Hoskins, the Commission emphasized the quality of the Department candidates who applied and interviewed for the director position. Commissioner Stephen Bradford, of Cape Girardeau, commenting on the selection, said: "In my opinion, John Hoskins represents the very best of several excellent candidates. His vision and personal value system will carry the mission of our Department to a very high level of achievement."  Commissioner Cynthia Metcalfe of St. Louis said: "John Hoskins' record and character inspire confidence. I am extremely pleased we have such a fine person to lead the department and to successfully engage citizens in conservation in Missouri--a challenge critical to our future."  Vice Chairman Howard Wood, of Bonne Terre, said: "John Hoskins is highly capable of delivering quality programs and services. He has the demonstrated ability to work effectively with the public and with the diverse conservation interests of the state."

Chairman Gorman indicated Hoskins will assume his duties on July 1, following the retirement of the present director, Jerry M. Conley, who has served as conservation director in three states for more than twenty-five years. She noted that past directors, I. T. Bode, William Towell, Carl Noren, Larry Gale, Jerry Presley and Jerry Conley all contributed unique vision and leadership during their tenure. "I am very confident John Hoskins will serve with equal distinction," said Gorman. "I believe his selection is a credit to the outstanding job the Department does in developing quality internal leadership."

- Stephanie Ramsey Westbrook -