In a groundbreaking move, the University of Pennsylvania has appointed Professor Michael Mann as its first Vice Provost for Climate Science, Policy, and Action. Mann, a distinguished figure in the field of climate science, currently serves as a presidential distinguished professor in the Department of Earth and Environmental Science and directs the Penn Center for Science, Sustainability, and the Media. His new role comes as part of Penn’s strategic framework, In Principle and Practice, aimed at enhancing the university’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement.
Mann’s expertise in climate science and climate change is widely recognized, having previously held positions at Penn State University as a Distinguished Professor of Atmospheric Science and director of the Earth System Science Center. His accolades include being elected as a member of both the National Academy Sciences and the United Kingdom’s Royal Society. In 2019, Mann was awarded the prestigious Tyler Prize for Environmental Achievement, solidifying his reputation as a leading expert in the field. He has authored several acclaimed books on climate change, including „The New Climate War: The Fight to Take Back Our Planet.“
Provost John Jackson Jr. praised Mann as „one of the world’s leading experts in climate change and sustainability,“ highlighting the significance of his appointment in advancing Penn’s mission to address pressing environmental challenges. Mann’s dedication to the cause is evident in his decision to step down from the committee tasked with selecting the vice provost, opting instead to be a candidate for the position.
Reflecting on his new role, Mann expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to Penn’s mission and honor the legacy of Benjamin Franklin, the university’s founder. He emphasized the importance of tackling climate change as a defining challenge of our time, aligning with Franklin’s values as a statesman, scholar, scientist, and environmentalist. Mann’s vision for a better world through sustainable practices and innovative policies underscores his commitment to driving meaningful change at Penn and beyond.
As the inaugural Vice Provost for Climate Science, Policy, and Action, Mann is poised to lead institutional efforts in promoting sustainability, leveraging Penn’s academic strengths in the sciences and public policy, and advancing scholarship and training in the field of climate science. His appointment signals a significant step forward in Penn’s commitment to environmental stewardship and underscores the university’s dedication to addressing global challenges through research, education, and community engagement.
The appointment of Professor Michael Mann as Vice Provost for Climate Science, Policy, and Action heralds a new era of leadership and innovation in the field of climate science at the University of Pennsylvania. With his expertise, passion, and dedication to sustainability, Mann is poised to make a lasting impact on Penn’s mission to address climate change and create a more sustainable future for generations to come.