Candidate statement for AFS Second Vice President

Growing up fishing and boating in the Midwest, I dreamt of becoming a marine biologist. Toward that goal, I earned BS degrees in biology and chemistry, a MS in marine biology, and a PhD in oceanography. Although initially working in the marine realm, a move to the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) refocused my attention on freshwater fisheries culture, management, and ecology. I’ve raised everything from Yellowcheek Darter to Alligator Gar. I conduct practical research to answer management questions for my state natural resource agency. Beyond academia, I’ve contributed to the American Fisheries Society at every level. I’ve been president of a chapter, a division, and a section. I served on numerous Society committees including the Governing Board, the management committee, and the Hutton Oversight Committee. In 2015, I was awarded the Emmeline Moore Prize and recognized as an AFS Fellow. In addition to fisheries work and Society service, I hold administrative roles in higher education, focusing on student learning outcome assessment and strategic planning. I espouse the servant leadership model and enjoy helping others reach their full potential.