RAPID CITY, SD (July 24, 2023) – The National Bowhunter Education Foundation (NBEF) recently named Sean McKinney of Salmon, ID, as the 2023 Bowhunter Education Instructor of the Year. McKinney was honored at the 2023 International Hunter Education Association – USA (IHEA) Conference in Boise ID. NBEF Executive Director Marilyn Bentz recognized McKinney’s efforts working with bowhunter ed students over the past five years, including a program within the public schools. As the NBEF Instructor of the Year McKinney received a Mathews bow signed by Matt McPherson.

“Sean’s enthusiasm for bowhunting is very compelling,” explained Marilyn Bentz, NBEF Executive Director. “He represents the sport well and inspires the next generation of bowhunters. We’re so pleased to honor Sean for all he does for bowhunter education. And although the NBEF appreciates the efforts of all our volunteer NBEF instructors, it is indeed a pleasure to recognize someone of Sean’s caliber.”

“This recognition means the world to me! I’m so excited for the upcoming year of classes and hunting,” said McKinney.
McKinney willingly continued the Hunter/Bowhunter Education legacy at the Salmon Public School District. The class began being offered in 1975 and has remained in the curriculum since then. McKinney adapted his curriculum to make a week-long class last over a three-month semester. Students can complete certification requirements within the normal school day.
NBEF helps bowhunters learn to be safe, successful and stewards of the sport. NBEF offers bowhunting instructional items, books, videos, 3-D models, apparel and more at nbef.org.

About NBEF
The National Bowhunter Education Foundation offers instructional content and tools for bowhunter education classes in the US. Helping bowhunters become safe and successful hunters and stewards of the sport are important NBEF missions. The NBEF provides bowhunter certification standards and class content that states and certain circumstances require in order to bowhunt. NBEF provides instructor training and certification.

NBEF oversees the International Bowhunter Education Program and works with the International Hunter Education Association and state agencies to coordinate a unified program. Europe and other countries accept the NBEF (IBEP) certification and conduct IBEP classes.

NBEF also oversees the International Crossbow Education Program and works with state agencies responsible for crossbow education to develop comprehensive online crossbow safety courses that teach students important laws and regulations, game identification, and safe, responsible handling of crossbow equipment.

NBEF is a 501(c)3 corporation that isn’t a membership-based organization. Tax-deductible donations to support this non-profit are welcome.

Learn more at nbef.org.

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