July 10-11, 2003

ITEM 120-1008-R0703   Authorization to Confer of Professor Emeritus of Biological Sciences and Zoology upon Andrew L. Sheldon; The University of Montana-Missoula

THAT: Andrew L. Sheldon, Professor of Biological Sciences and Zoology, in his 34 years of service to The University of Montana, has merited the appreciation and commendation of the Board of Regents of the Montana University System, and has earned recognition as Professor Emeritus of Biological Sciences and Zoology.

EXPLANATION: Professor Sheldon earned his Ph.D. degree in 1966 from Cornell University. He joined the Zoology faculty at The University of Montana in 1969, later becoming a faculty member in the Division of Biological Sciences when it was formed. Professor Sheldon has a well-deserved reputation among faculty colleagues and students as an accomplished, dedicated, and demanding teacher who challenges and engages students intellectually, who balances theory and empirical studies, and who introduces historical perspective as well as the latest ideas and innovations in a discipline. Many zoology, biology, and wildlife biology students have gained from his careful, encouraging, and firm mentoring. One of his many important legacies is the large number of his students who are making their own contributions as university faculty, aquatic biologists, fisheries managers, and ecological consultants.

Professor Sheldon's research has addressed issues in an impressive array of disciplines including aquatic ecology, fisheries biology, invertebrate biology, conservation biology, community ecology, biogeography, quantitative analysis, and limnology. His work has been described in over 40 scientific publications. Professor Sheldon also has had major, positive impact on the scientific development and achievement of many faculty colleagues by sharing his insights and experience. He spent 6 years as a departmental and program administrator in zoology and wildlife biology. In all of his activities, Professor Sheldon's high personal and scientific standards, work ethic, gentle nature, and intellect have earned him the affection and respect of those who have worked with him.

The Division of Biological Sciences is honored to recommend Professor Andrew L. Sheldon for Emeritus status.