By Tori Banks, student news writer

CAMPBELLSVILLE, Ky. - “God has a better plan for you than you can come up with on your own,” Ralph Duren, wildlife professional, wildlife impersonator, humorist and outdoorsmen, said.

Duren, who is Two-time Grand National Wild Turkey Gobbling Champion and first World Quail Calling Champion, spoke at Campbellsville University's weekly chapel service Sept. 21.

Duren explained how his love for wildlife began at a very early age. Living on a farm and hunting and trapping with his father created a passion for the outdoors that he has carried with him throughout his entire life.

This passion allowed Duren the opportunity to work with the Missouri Department of Conservation for 26 years. “I never went to work,” said Duren, “I went to fun.”

The large amount of time Duren spent working, hunting and trapping helped him to perfect the skill that he is perhaps best known for today; Duren can perfectly mimic the sounds made by over 150 animals in the wild.

Duren explained that this talent has allowed him the opportunity to live out several of his lifelong dreams including making an appearance on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno and performing on the Mississippi Queen.

“I thought I wanted to be a veterinarian, but God had other plans for my life,” Duren said. “God knew the desires of my heart.”

Duren encouraged the audience to turn themselves completely over to God. He explained that God has a specific design for all of our lives, and he expressed that if we allow Him to, God will unfold a plan for us that will enable us to fulfill the purpose we were made for.

Campbellsville University is a widely acclaimed Kentucky-based Christian university with over 3,000 students offering 63 undergraduate options, 17 master's degrees, five postgraduate areas and eight pre-professional programs. The website for complete information is campbellsville.edu.