Esri chief scientist Dawn J. Wright
Redlands, California—Esri chief scientist Dawn J. Wright, PhD, has been named a 2016 fellow of the Geological Society of America (GSA). GSA recognizes its fellows for their distinguished contributions to the geosciences through research, teaching, and enhancing the public’s awareness of geology.
Wright has partnered with scientists during the last 20 years to expand the use of geographic information system (GIS) technology to analyze terrains, ecosystems, and habitats. She is recognized for her research on mapping and tectonics of the ocean floor and for her leadership in adapting GIS to the marine environment.
Also, for her service to the geological community, she is honored as the 2015 recipient of the GSA Randolph W. "Bill" and Cecile T. Bromery Award for Minorities, which recognizes a lifetime of achievement in geoscience.
In addition to her role as chief scientist at Esri, Wright is a professor of geography and oceanography at Oregon State University. She serves on the Science Advisory Board of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Science Advisory Council of Conservation International, and the board of COMPASS.
Wright has combined her expertise as a geographer and GIS user to map the seafloor, design geospatial solutions for coastal mapping and charting, and advise organizations on oceanography and marine spatial planning to ensure that the oceans and their resources are well managed.
For more information on how GIS empowers scientists like Wright to research, analyze, and impact marine environments, visit go.esri.com/pr-oceans.