The State Climate Office of Ohio proudly celebrates Professor Bryan Mark, Ohio's State Climatologist from 2015 to 2022, as the recipient of the Byrd Center's prestigious 2024 Lois M. Jones Award for Science Access, Engagement, and Communication. This distinguished recognition highlights Dr. Mark's unwavering commitment to making climate science accessible, engaging, and impactful for audiences ranging from local Ohio communities to global research partners.

During his tenure as State Climatologist, Dr. Mark led transformative initiatives that elevated Ohio's climate resilience. Collaborating with a multidisciplinary team, he developed pioneering tools such as the FARM Application, which helps Ohio's farmers optimize nutrient application, and the Ohio State campus Mesonet, a real-time weather monitoring network enhancing data accessibility for researchers and the public. His leadership extended to forging partnerships with Ohio State's College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences, resulting in groundbreaking advancements in climate-smart agricultural practices.

Beyond his tenure as State Climatologist, Dr. Mark's influence continues as a faculty member in The Ohio State University's Department of Geography and as a research leader at the Byrd Center. For nineteen years, he has dedicated himself to fostering the next generation of climate scientists through innovative teaching. His contributions include co-developing the Climate Change Fundamentals Certificate Program at Ohio State, an interdisciplinary initiative designed to deepen undergraduate students' understanding of climate complexities, reflecting his commitment to preparing students for leadership in addressing global climate issues. His work advances scientific knowledge and engages local communities, ensuring that research findings have practical benefits.

The State Climate Office of Ohio applauds his extraordinary achievements and is honored to see his work recognized with this prestigious award.

By championing accessible and innovative science, Dr. Mark continues to inspire meaningful change and serve as a role model for the next generation of scientists, educators, and community leaders.

Visit the Byrd Center to learn more about Dr. Mark and the Lois M. Jones Award.