Foley named first Gaylord Nelson Professor

A University of Wisconsin–Madison scientist who studies the behavior of complex global environmental systems and their interactions with human societies has been named the university’s first Gaylord Nelson Distinguished Professor.

Jonathan Foley, director of the university’s Center for Sustainability and the Global Environment, will hold the honorary title for the next four years. He also will receive approximately $19,000 annually in flexible research support.

The new professorship is awarded by UW–Madison’s Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies to outstanding members of its faculty for research achievement, significant contributions to the institute, interdisciplinary excellence and career momentum.

“I’m honored to be the first in this important position, and I’ll do my best to live up to it,” said Foley, whose research group uses computer models and satellite measurements to analyze changes in land use, ecosystems, climate and freshwater resources across local, regional and global scales.

Gaylord Nelson, a Wisconsin native, died in July at age 89. The former governor, three-term U.S. senator and counselor for the nonprofit Wilderness Society was an unwavering advocate for the environment. Perhaps best known as the founder of Earth Day in 1970, Nelson left a rich legacy of achievements in conservation and environmental protection.

A fund-raising campaign begun before Nelson’s death raised the money to endow a professorship in his name. A coinciding campaign raised funds for a Nelson Distinguished Fellowship, awarded each year to a graduate student interested in environmental policy.

Established the same year as Earth Day, the Institute for Environmental Studies was renamed four years ago in honor of Nelson. The Nelson Institute, as it is now known, conducts a variety of interdisciplinary academic, research, and outreach programs.