October 21, 2025 — Dr. Jack McGovern is the recipient of the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council’s 2025 Award of Excellence. The award was presented during a social held at the SC Department of Natural Resources as part of the Council’s September meeting. The recognition came as a surprise to Jack as he was surrounded by his family, friends, and colleagues representing 33 years of career service to marine research and federal fisheries management.
The Council established the Award of Excellence in 2022 to recognize those who have made substantial contributions to the science, management or sustainability of the marine resources and habitats under the Council’s jurisdiction. Nominations are accepted by Council members, advisory panel members, and members of the Council’s Scientific and Statistical Committee. “This year’s award recipient has been instrumental in providing quality fisheries research and management over his successful career,” said Council Chair Trish Murphey. “It is an honor to present this award to Dr. Jack McGovern to recognize not only his achievements but his tireless work and mentorship to those privileged to work with him for the past three decades.”