Renowned Atmospheric Scientist J. Marshall Shepherd Receives Prestigious Schmidt Award
Athens, GA – J. Marshall Shepherd, a leading figure in atmospheric sciences at the University of Georgia, has been awarded the top prize in the National Academies’ Research Scientist: Later Career category of the 2024 Eric and Wendy Schmidt Awards for Excellence in Science Communications. This honor acknowledges Shepherd’s significant contributions to conveying complex weather and climate science to the public.
The Schmidt Awards, a collaboration between the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine and Schmidt Science, celebrate outstanding science communication efforts by journalists, researchers, and communicators. This year, 24 awards were distributed across eight categories, with Shepherd receiving a $40,000 top prize.
Shepherd, who also serves as the associate dean for research at the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences, is a member of both the National Academy of Sciences and the National Academy of Engineering. He has dedicated his career to combating misinformation in science communication, advocating for transparency, and engaging the public on vital topics such as climate change. His initiatives include hosting "Weather Geeks," a popular podcast on The Weather Channel, and contributing to Forbes Magazine, alongside appearances on major news outlets like CNN and ABC News.
In his own words, Shepherd emphasizes the need for scientists to step beyond traditional academic realms. "At a time when misinformation thrives, science experts must engage beyond the ivory tower," he stated, affirming his commitment to public engagement. His TEDxUGA and TEDxAtlanta talks on climate science have garnered widespread attention, further solidifying his role as a key communicator in the field.
Franklin College Dean Anna Stenport praised Shepherd’s dedication, noting that his efforts highlight the vital intersection of communication and scientific inquiry. As the summer of 2024 approaches, Shepherd remains committed to the ongoing mission of informing and educating the public about critical scientific issues.
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