Leading Science Organization Makes History With First Black President

The  American Geophysical Union has made history by electing Dr. Brandon Jones as its first Black president.

Jones graduated from Lincoln University, an HBCU, with a degree in biology. He also holds a master’s degree and a doctorate in Marine Sciences from the University of Delaware. Launched in 1919, AGU supports more than half a million advocates and professionals in Earth & space sciences.

Speaking with Forbes, Dr Jones says his vision for the organization is to “continue to develop the elements of future adaptiveness and maintain a posture of future preparation. As the largest professional society in the world for Earth and space science, AGU needs to focus on sustainability in a rapidly changing social and political environment.”

“When asked how this historic achievement is important to him, he said, When I was 7 or 8, I had a vision of becoming an oceanographer. I had no idea what it would entail, how long it would take, or where I would end up. But I kept that vision and was open to experiences and opportunities that moved me forward.”

“Subsequently,” he adds, “I learned quite a bit in that journey, and now, I am in this leadership role as the first black president of AGU. I am a product of opportunities that were intentionally designed to expand access to science, and the return on investment from those efforts is undeniable.”

What is the American Geophysical Union?

AGU is a global community of over half a million supporters and professionals in the Earth and space sciences. According to its website, the organization aims to advance discovery and solution science that accelerates knowledge and creates solutions that are ethical, unbiased, and respectful of communities and their values through broad and inclusive partnerships.

Its programs include serving as a scholarly publisher, hosting virtual and in-person events, and providing career support. AGU also develops new perspectives on expanding the exchange of scientific knowledge through publishing and meetings. It promotes new and transdisciplinary fields of study, tailoring its programs and operations to the ever-changing needs of the worldwide community.

The Washington, D.C.-based global community supports more than half a million advocates and professionals in Earth and space sciences. It has members in 137 countries. AGU was established in 1919 by the National Research Council and operated as an unincorporated affiliate of the National Academy of Sciences for over 50 years. The organization was independently incorporated in 1972.

Main Photo: Dr. Brandon Jones  Photo credit: Dr. Brandon Jones/AGU