PHOENIX — Arizona Game and Fish Commission Chair Marsha Petrie Sue presented the 2025 State Advocate of the Year Award Monday, February 16, to Senate Natural Resources Committee Chairman T.J. Shope at the Arizona State Capitol.
The award recognizes elected officials who demonstrate exceptional leadership and commitment to advancing wildlife conservation and responsible outdoor recreation across Arizona.
“Conservation does not just happen in the field,” said Chair Petrie Sue. “It happens in committee hearings, on the Senate floor, and sometimes during very long conversations that begin with, ‘This won’t take much of your time…’ Senator Shope understands that protecting Arizona’s wildlife requires thoughtful policy, sound funding, and a willingness to listen.”
As Chair of the Senate Natural Resources Committee, Senator Shope has consistently ensured that the voices of wildlife professionals, sportsmen and women, rural communities, and conservation partners are heard and taken seriously. His leadership has supported policies and funding that benefit Arizona’s diverse wildlife species and the citizens who value outdoor recreation.
“He understands that wildlife conservation isn’t partisan – it’s simply part of being an Arizonan,” Petrie Sue added. “If it flies, swims, runs, or crawls in this state, T.J. has probably heard about it.”
The State Advocate of the Year Award was originally announced during the Arizona Game and Fish Commission Awards ceremony, where State Representative Nick Kupper accepted the award on Senator Shope’s behalf. Monday’s presentation at the Capitol provided an opportunity to formally recognize his service in person.
The Arizona Game and Fish Commission extends its gratitude to Senator Shope for his steadfast advocacy and his commitment to ensuring that Arizona’s wildlife and outdoor heritage remain strong for future generations.