Dr. Anna George
Dr. Anna George, director of the Tennessee Aquarium Conservation Institute, (TNACI) was recognized as the 2015 Outstanding Fisheries Scientist by the Tennessee Chapter of the American Fisheries Society (TNAFS).
This award is presented each year to a current member of TNAFS who has exhibited exceptional contributions to the fisheries community in Tennessee and the Southeast.
Dr. George has been the director of TNACI since 2007, keeping the focus of the Institute on freshwater conservation while expanding the scope of research and influence to include game fish like Southern Appalachian Brook Trout, non-game species like Lake Sturgeon and Laurel Dace as well as reptiles and freshwater invertebrates throughout the Southeast. Outreach, freshwater literacy and research are all key components of her leadership model. “I was incredibly surprised to hear my name called during the awards ceremony,” said Dr. George. “I am so honored to be recognized for the work that we are doing at TNACI and with our partners to protect and bolster freshwater species in our region.”
The awards ceremony was the culmination of the TNAFS annual meeting which was held at the Tennessee Aquarium. The Society brought together more than 70 fisheries biologists from across Tennessee to share current fisheries research and information about new fisheries techniques. “We were concerned about winter weather impacting the turnout for this year’s event,” said Travis Scott, TNAFS president. “But we were pleasantly surprised that everyone was able to make it to Chattanooga. I think this speaks volumes about how committed fisheries biologists are to their work across the state.”
Others who were also recognized for their outstanding accomplishments:
- David Rizzuto, fisheries biologist with Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, was presented with the TNAFS Lifetime Achievement Award.
- Tennessee Council of Trout Unlimited received the Friends of Fisheries Award.
- Zachary Wolf and Shawn Settle, both Austin Peay State University students, were honored for Best Student Presentations.
- Joyce Combs was given a certificate of appreciation for her past service as TNAFS secretary and treasurer.
- Jim Parham was given a certificate of appreciation for his service as TNAFS President.
The attendees also raised money through a silent auction to support fishing events for kids throughout Tennessee. This chapter outreach project seeks to inspire the next generation of anglers in the Volunteer State. Last year TNAFS sponsored fishing events served 1,000 kids in Tennessee.
The American Fisheries Society (AFS), founded in 1870, is the oldest and largest professional society representing fisheries scientists. AFS promotes scientific research and enlightened management of resources for optimum use and enjoyment by the public. It also encourages a comprehensive education for fisheries scientists and continuing on-the-job training.
The Tennessee Chapter is an active local extension of the AFS. The chapter is composed of professionals, students and others with an interest in the area of fisheries.