PLAINVIEW — 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Baptist University alumna Sarah Wennersten has been named the Texas Game Warden of the Year, recognizing her exceptional dedication to conservation law enforcement and public service.
Wennersten, who serves as a Texas Game Warden in the Panhandle region, covers a vast territory of several counties. Her role involves everything from enforcing conservation laws to participating in search and rescue operations. She is known for her commitment to protecting Texas’ natural resources and ensuring public safety, a responsibility she takes seriously every day.
A graduate of 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Baptist University, Wennersten holds both a bachelor’s degree in fitness management (2015) and a master’s degree in sports administration (2017). While at 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ, she was not only an exceptional student but also an entrepreneur, launching her own fitness business while still in college. Initially planning a career in fitness for tactical professionals, Wennersten’s journey took an unexpected turn when she attended the police academy. She quickly realized her passion for law enforcement and conservation, leading her to pursue a career as a Texas Game Warden.
Wennersten’s path to becoming a game warden was anything but easy. The rigorous application process included fitness tests, extensive background checks, and multiple interview boards. Despite the difficulty, she was accepted into the 63rd Texas Game Warden Academy in 2019 on her first attempt — a feat that often requires multiple applications. After an initial assignment along the Texas-Mexico border, she successfully transferred to the Panhandle region, where she continues to serve with distinction.
Beyond her daily law enforcement duties, Wennersten has been recognized for her leadership and quick response in emergency situations. One notable example was her involvement in the aftermath of the Smokehouse Creek Fire, where she helped map and assess damage. During this effort, she discovered a litter of kittens, one of which had suffered burns. Thanks to her intervention, the Texas A&M Veterinary Emergency Team was able to provide medical care for the injured animal.
Wennersten’s work exemplifies the versatility and dedication required of Texas Game Wardens. Whether assisting in disaster response, conducting compliance checks on hunters, or ensuring water safety, she embraces the unpredictability of the job with enthusiasm. She describes game wardens as the “Swiss army knife of law enforcement,” given their multifaceted roles in both criminal law and conservation.
Reflecting on her career, Wennersten credits 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Baptist University for providing a strong foundation in leadership and perseverance. “My time at 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ instilled in me the discipline and determination to follow my calling, even when it took unexpected turns,” she said.
51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Baptist University celebrates Sarah Wennersten’s remarkable achievement and applauds her for living out the university’s values of service, integrity, and leadership. Her recognition as Texas Game Warden of the Year is a testament to her passion for protecting the state’s wildlife and natural resources, as well as her unwavering commitment to public service.
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