John P. Carroll Named School of Natural Resources New Director

Dr. John P. Carroll will be taking the helm as Director of SNR beginning August 1.
Dr. John P. Carroll will be taking the helm as Director of SNR beginning August 1.

Dr. John P. Carroll will be taking the helm as Director of SNR beginning August 1. Carroll comes to UNL from Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources at the University of Georgia.

“I am honored to be named the Director and look forward to joining the outstanding people in, and stakeholders of, the School of Natural Resources as we forge into what is sure to be a dynamic period in the history of the School,” said Carroll.

Among his many past experiences, Carroll has served as a professor at UGA, a Senior Research Scientist for The Game Conservancy Trust, and a visiting professor at the University of Cyprus. He holds a PhD in biology from the University of North Dakota, where he specialized in the ecology and management of gamebirds.

Carroll learned about the director position from a faculty member in SNR. After several months of interviews and discussions, UNL determined Carroll to be the best fit for the post.

Ronnie Green, Harlan vice chancellor of UNL's Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources, said Carroll is well suited to help the school "fully realize its potential."

"The School of Natural Resources is the leader of critical programs in research, teaching and extension that are crucial to the long-term sustainability of Nebraska's natural resources and ecosystems," said Green, who also is vice president of agriculture and natural resources for the University of Nebraska. "We look forward to Dr. Carroll's leadership and vision in heading SNR at this pivotal point in its history."

Carroll will replace Dr. Tala Awada, who has directed SNR for the past few months. She congratulates Carroll on his new position. “I wish him the best of luck on this new chapter in his career,” said Awada.

Carroll said he has been amazed at how engaged all of the faculty and staff have been throughout the selection process. He is excited to learn even more about SNR, UNL, and Nebraska.

“No doubt we are in a period of serious change for higher education,” said Carroll.

“Our challenge will be to think forward to manage change and uncertainty relative to our mission in natural resource management.”

SNR looks forward to working with Dr. Carroll in the coming months.