Marshall Shepherd

Dr. J. Marshall Shepherd is the Georgia Athletic Association Distinguished Professor of Geography and Atmospheric Sciences at the University of Georgia, with a joint appointment in the College of Engineering. He directs UGA's Atmospheric Sciences Program and holds professorships in Geography and the College of Engineering. His research focuses on hydrometeorological extremes, urban climate, and tropical cyclones. Dr. Shepherd has held leadership roles including AMS President (2013) and chairs NASA's Earth Sciences Advisory Committee. He hosts Weather Channel's 'Weather Geeks' and contributes to Forbes Magazine.

Education: B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. in Physical Meteorology from Florida State University (first African American to earn FSU Meteorology PhD). Awards include the AMS Helmut Landsberg Award (2018), Presidential Early Career Award (2004), and Ted Turner Protector of the Earth Award (2014).

Research emphasizes urban heat islands, climate adaptation, and disaster resilience. Notable projects include leading UGA's UCAR membership and founding the Georgia Climate Project. Over $4M in extramural funding secured. Key areas include climate justice, tropical cyclone dynamics, and environmental policy. Advises NASA, NOAA, and international bodies.