WCEE NAMES NOAA ADMINISTRATOR

JANE LUBCHENCO WOMAN OF THE YEAR

SNR Denton’s Clint Vince Named WCEE Champion

On March 8th, WCEE recognized Dr. Jane Lubchenco, under secretary of commerce for oceans and atmosphere and NOAA administrator as WCEE Woman of the Year, the organization’s highest honor.

Nominated by President Obama in December 2008 to be part of his "Science Team," Lubchenco is a marine ecologist and environmental scientist by training, with expertise in oceans, climate change, and interactions between the environment and human well-being.

"I am honored to accept this award,” said Dr. Lubchenco. "Now more than ever, I believe scientists in the energy and environmental fields have an obligation to do more than discover new knowledge. They should also share their knowledge broadly, and serve society by working at least in part on problems that are relevant to social challenges. Organizations such as WCEE are critical to this effort by championing women who work in the energy and environmental fields.”

WCEE also presented a Champion Award to Clinton Vince, chair of law firm SNR Denton's Energy, Transport and Infrastructure sector. The Champion Award recognizes the importance of mentors for women professionals; it is intended to honor those individuals who have championed the advancement of women in the fields of energy and the environment.

"It is an honor to be recognized by WCEE," said Vince. "This organization fulfills a unique role in fostering the growth and career development of women in the energy and environmental industries, I take great pride in being affiliated with WCEE and this award."

Vince is at the forefront of global energy developments and handles some of the highest profile cases in the industry. As the city of New Orleans' lead federal trial counsel for nearly three decades, he is credited with helping to save more than $2 billion for the ratepayers of the city and assisting with the rebuilding of the city's electric and natural gas systems that were devastated by Hurricane Katrina.

WCEE presented the awards to Dr. Lubchenco and Mr. Vince at a dinner at the Capital Hilton Hotel, Washington, D.C.

To learn more about Dr. Lubchenco, click here.