Safari Club International Names Senator John Curtis (R-UT) as 2025 Federal Legislator of the Year
Washington, D.C. — Safari Club International (SCI) has proudly selected Senator John Curtis (R-UT) as its 2025 Federal Legislator of the Year awardee. A champion for outdoor recreation and public lands access, Senator Curtis has consistently advocated for the responsible conservation and multiple-use management of America’s natural resources, earning him this prestigious recognition.
Senator Curtis previously represented Utah’s 3rd Congressional District before becoming Utah’s junior senator. He was Vice Chair of the Federal Lands Subcommittee in the U.S. House of Representatives, where he fought to protect Utah’s public lands while ensuring they remain accessible for recreation and sustainable use.
Before his election to Congress, Curtis designed shooting ranges worldwide for law enforcement training and was a highly successful mayor of Provo, Utah, where he achieved an impressive 94% approval rating. His leadership as mayor earned him several accolades, including “Top Elected Official on Social Media” and Utah Valley Magazine’s Person of the Year.
As an avid outdoorsman, Senator Curtis has deep personal ties to the hunting and conservation community. He has previously been an exhibitor at the SCI’s Annual Convention and the Ultimate Sportsmen’s Market. He has consistently worked to ensure that public lands are preserved for future generations while respecting the traditional uses that benefit local communities and the economy.
“Senator Curtis exemplifies what it means to be a steward of our natural resources,” said SCI CEO W. Laird Hamberlin. “His balanced approach to land management—supporting conservation efforts while safeguarding the rights of hunters and outdoor enthusiasts—makes him a standout leader. We look forward to working with him to continue protecting America’s outdoor heritage as he begins his tenure in the Senate.”
“We are thrilled to recognize Senator John Curtis as the 2025 Federal Legislator of the Year,” said SCI President John McLaurin. “His dedication to preserving public land access, supporting hunting rights, and promoting conservation aligns perfectly with SCI’s mission. Senator Curtis’s hands-on experience and passion for the outdoors make him a true ally of the hunting community.”
Senator Curtis has been married to his wife, Sue, for 41 years. They have six children and sixteen grandchildren. His dedication to his family and Utah’s outdoor lifestyle further demonstrates his commitment to maintaining a legacy of responsible stewardship for the next generation.
Background:
For over 50 years, Safari Club International (SCI) has been the leader in defending the freedom to hunt and promoting wildlife conservation worldwide. SCI is unique in the scope of our ability to defend and advance our freedom to hunt. SCI is the only hunting rights organization with a Washington, D.C.-based national and international advocacy team and an all-species focus. SCI also mobilizes more than 150 chapters and affiliate networks representing millions of hunters around the world.