The commission provides independent, science-based oversight of domestic and international policies and actions of federal agencies addressing human impacts on marine mammals and their ecosystems.
Her nomination must be confirmed by the United States Senate before she can take on the role.
If confirmed, Ballance will remain in her current roles at Oregon State while also dedicating a portion of her time to her role as chair.
“The process still has a long way to go,” Ballance said, “Nevertheless I am deeply, deeply honored to be here and ready for where it will take me.”
Ballance has studied the ecology and conservation biology of cetaceans and seabirds for more than 35 years around the world. She is a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, recipient of the U.S. Department of Commerce Bronze and Silver Medals, NOAA Fisheries’ Supervisor of the Year, and cover feature of the Association for Women in Science.
~ Theresa Hogue
