Written by Randall Wells

In the run-up to the SMM biennial conference, the Board of Governors and Board of Associate Editors have selected Bill Perrin as the winner of the Kenneth S. Norris Lifetime Achievement Award.

Dr. Perrin, a past-president of SMM and current Board member, has been recognized for the high standards of excellence that he has demonstrated in his work, along with his dedication, perseverance, and strength of character in dealing with highly controversial issues.

His efforts have set an important example for the next generations of marine mammal scientists, and they have made a large and positive difference for the species with which Bill has worked, especially members of the genus Stenella, around the world.

The winner of the award delivers a plenary address at the next biennial conference, and publishes an associated article in Marine Mammal Science.

Bill has been dutifully informed that receipt of this award does not mean that he can refrain from continuing his contributions to the field and the Society.

I am very happy to report that the winner of the 2009 Kenneth S. Norris Career Achievement Award is Dr. Sam H. Ridgway.  This award was established in honor of the Society’s founding president as an acknowledgement of exemplary lifetime contributions to science and society through research, teaching, and service in marine mammal science. The award is granted every second year, in association with the Society’s Biennial Conference.

Sam has made an enormous contribution to our field, from his pioneering work on the physiology of marine mammals, to studies of marine mammal medicine and, more recently, the effects of anthropogenic sound on marine mammals.  We are honored to recognize Sam’s contribution to our field in this way.  As this year’s honoree, Sam delivered a plenary lecture at the Biennial Conference in Quebec City and will write an associated paper for Marine Mammal Science.  Please join me in congratulating Dr. Sam Ridgway on this award.

Sam Ridgway (center) with Andy Read (left) and Mike Hammill (right) at the 2009 biennial conference in Québec City, Canada