The American Geophysical Union has elected its first black President. AGU is one of the largest science organizations in the world. As we close out Black History Month, Dr. Brandon Jones is already speaking out on behalf of the AGU’s scientific community at a challenging time and blazing new pathways for future scientists.
I had the pleasure of talking with Dr. Jones recently and have known him for several years. We share the same fraternity, Alpha Phi Alpha, and I was the second African American elected President of the American Meteorological Society. Jones served on the AGU Board of Directors in 2017 and was AGU President-Elect in during the period 2023 t 2024.
What’s the AGU anyhow? Its website noted, “AGU is an international, nonprofit scientific association whose mission is to promote discovery in Earth and space science for the benefit of humanity.” The AGU is a pillar of science engagement, innovation, and dissemination across multiple disciplines. As of 2021, its Black membership was just under two percent.
Dr. Jones has a degree in Biology from Lincoln University, PA, a Historically Black College and University. He also holds a master’s degree and a doctorate in Marine Sciences from the University of Delaware. I recetly asked him a few questions about his goals as President and the future of the AGU.
Dr. Shepherd: What is your vision for AGU right now and going forward?
Dr. Jones: My vision is to help AGU continue to develop the elements of future adaptiveness and maintain a posture of future preparation. As the largest professional society in the world for Earth and space science, AGU needs to focus on sustainability in a rapidly changing social and political environment.
Dr. Shepherd: Why is your historic achievement so important personally and in the bigger picture?
Dr. Jones: When I was 7 or 8, I had a vision of becoming an oceanographer. I had no idea what it would entail, how long it would take, or where I would end up. But I kept that vision and was open to experiences and opportunities that moved me forward. Subsequently, I learned quite a bit in that journey and now I am in this leadership role as the first black president of AGU. I am a product of opportunities that were intentionally designed to expand access to science and I think the return on investment from those efforts is undeniable.
Dr. Shepherd: What thoughts do you have about Black History Month and its significance?
Dr. Jones: Evolution occurs when new information is used to continue building on what came before. A lack of awareness about the past weakens the substrate that new information can be applied to, thereby impacting the change that is necessary for survival. Black History Month is part of the informational substrate that tells the whole truth of this Nation’s history. Without it, change is choked and national security is compromised.
It is an honor to call Dr. Jones a colleague and friend. Like me, he understands the challenges and opportunities ahead. While I am sure takes pride in being a pioneer and role model, many of us hope that the days of “firsts” are waning.
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