UCAR statement on the passing of former Trustee Berrien Moore
Moore was a global leader in the Earth system science community
Dec 19, 2024 - by Jessica Bauters
The University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR) joins the Earth system science community in mourning the loss of former Trustee and colleague Berrien Moore. Moore was a member of the UCAR Board of Trustees from 2006 to 2008 and had been serving as Dean of the College of Atmospheric and Geographic Sciences and Director of the National Weather Center at the University of Oklahoma (OU) since 2010.
“I knew Berrien for many years and deeply admired his commitment to advancing our knowledge of the Earth system and supporting the next generation of scientists,” said UCAR President Antonio Busalacchi. “Berrien was an extraordinarily gifted scientist with particular expertise in global climate as well as satellite observations, as well as a skilled administrator and teacher. He will be deeply missed.”
In 2007, Moore was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his work as a Coordinating Lead Author for the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. He was known for his collaborative and visionary style as both an educator and researcher.
Moore, who had been the UCAR member representative for OU since 2011, collaborated with many UCAR researchers, including former UCAR President Rick Anthes, with whom he co-chaired the National Research Council (NRC) report, “Earth Science and Applications from Space: National Imperatives for the Next Decade and Beyond.”
“Our community has lost an important and influential leader — not only for his contributions to our science, but for his commitment to accessible opportunities for the next generation of scientific leaders,” said NSF NCAR Director Everette Joseph, in reflection on Moore’s impact. “On a personal note, I will always be grateful for his kindness and support.”
In a statement remembering Moore, the University of Oklahoma noted his dedication to his students and colleagues, along with his enduring impact on the Earth system science community.
“We greatly appreciate Berrien’s service to the Earth system science community. He will be deeply missed,” said UCAR Community Programs (UCP) Director Bill Kuo.
UCAR is a nonprofit consortium of 131 North American colleges and universities, including the University of Oklahoma, focused on research and training in Earth system science.