UW-Stevens Point: American Fisheries Society recognizes UWSP fisheries expert Hansen

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A fisheries expert at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point has received the highest award for an educator from the American Fisheries Society (AFS).

Michael Hansen, professor of fisheries and an expert in fisheries population dynamics of walleye in inland lakes and lake trout in the Great Lakes, received the Excellence in Fisheries Education Award at the AFS annual meeting in Nashville, Tenn.

“The CNR is very proud of its teaching excellence tradition,” said CNR Dean Christine Thomas. “We consider teaching to be the centerpiece of what we do. We are very pleased with the Society’s recognition of one of our own faculty members.”

Hansen has been a member of AFS since 1986 and was recognized in 2007 with the Meritorious Service Award by the North Central Division of the AFS. He serves as faculty adviser for the UWSP student chapter of the American Fisheries Society.

“I encourage all of my students to become involved in AFS,” said Hansen. “This award is the highest possible award for a fisheries educator in North America, so this recognition very much is a high point in my career.”

A native of Ashland, Hansen is co-editor of the North American Journal of Fisheries Management. He was appointed to the Great Lakes Fishery Commission by President Bush in 2004. He continues to conduct research on fishery management issues for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

A faculty member at UWSP since 1996, Hansen received the University Scholar Award in 2000. He is also an adjunct assistant professor at the University of Michigan, Michigan State University and UW-Milwaukee. Hansen holds degrees from Michigan State University, Cornell University and UWSP.