Pennsylvania Game Commission accepts resignation of executive director; confirms Stephen Smith as executive director

The Pennsylvania Game Commission Board of Commissioners on May 13 unanimously accepted the resignation of Executive Director Brian Burgham and confirmed Stephen Smith as the agency's executive director.

The board convened a special meeting to finalize recommendations from an emergency executive session held April 29 that discussed personnel matters. The single agenda item was to accept Burgham’s resignation and to confirm Smith’s selection as executive director. A motion to move the item forward was made and seconded; the board voted unanimously to approve the action.

Board members praised both Burgham’s service and Smith’s experience during discussion before the vote. Commissioner Mitrick said, “I’d like to say that I think, Steve Smith is a, an excellent, selection. He was serving as the deputy executive director prior to mister Burhan's resignation. He's been with this agency a long, long time. He's got an incredible, curriculum vitae, and I, I think he fits the bill. That's my opinion.” Commissioner Koppenhaver extended personal thanks to Brian Burgham “for his dedication and his leadership over the years,” and Commissioner Bridal said he was “very much looking forward to working with Steve” and noted Smith’s passion and experience.

A participant identified as Todd (first name only) also thanked Burgham and described Smith’s work on outreach and marketing: “...a lot of the activities I've been involved with Steve have to do with crafting new messages and strategies for our urban metro areas, which is a huge area of opportunity for increasing more participation in hunting and wildlife and supporting the agency.”

After the vote, board leadership invited Smith to address the public. Smith said he accepted the role “very much well aware of the awesome responsibility that comes with it. It's truly an honor and a privilege to lead what I think is the premier wildlife agency in the country,” and thanked the board for its confidence and support.

The board recorded a unanimous vote for approval. President Fedorca, Vice President Fredericks, Secretary DeMarco, Commissioner Koppenhaver, Commissioner Nick Knecht, Commissioner Mitrick, Commissioner Bridal, Commissioner Sankey and Commissioner Schwallum each signified “yes” when the motion was called, and the secretary announced a unanimous decision for approval.

The special meeting closed after brief remarks and the board noted that its next regular meeting will be held in July at the agency’s headquarters in Harrisburg (specific July date not specified in the meeting transcript).