Dr. Margaret Murphy, longtime NYAFS member and Fish Program Manager for the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department, has been elected as second vice president of the American Fisheries Society. Murphy was officially installed as an officer at the Annual Meeting in Grand Rapids that took place in August 2023, and will serve as president of the Society in 2026-2027.

Having served in many leadership roles at various levels within AFS, NED, and NYAFS, Dr. Murphy has ample experience to build from. Her presidency will focus on developing membership, supporting students and young professionals, and prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Dr. Murphy said, “I’m honored and excited to be an officer of AFS and ultimately president in a few years. AFS has been such an important part of my career and I look forward to leading the Society and helping others understand the value of AFS membership.”

Jo Johnson, Fish Biologist with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, was also recognized at the 2023 Grand Rapids meeting for being selected for the AFS Emerging Leaders Mentorship Award (ELMA) Program. As a recipient of this award, Johnson will spend a year honing leadership skills and participating in AFS Governing Board activities. Johnson shared, “I am looking forward to participating in the National AFS governance board as an ELMA awardee this upcoming year. This is an exciting opportunity to learn more about various leadership opportunities within AFS, and envision future roles I may take on throughout my career. I am grateful for the support from my peers, colleagues, and mentors that has allowed me to accept this new challenge!”

NYAFS and its members congratulate Margaret and Jo for these outstanding accomplishments. Great work!

Tagged Under: Women In Fisheries