The Robert B. Annis Water Resources Institute (AWRI) at Grand Valley State University (GVSU) — a pioneering research institute located on the shore of Muskegon Lake, an estuary of Lake Michigan — seeks an executive director to continue its traditions of scholarly excellence, enduring impact, and innovative education. With a mission to integrate research, education, and outreach to enhance and preserve freshwater resources, AWRI plays a vital role in addressing a myriad of water-related issues with important implications for the region and the planet. Reporting to the dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the largest college at GVSU, the executive director will lead a talented and diverse team of federally funded researchers and serve as a convener and advocate for the institute and its work at the university, community, and national level.

Since its founding nearly 40 years ago, the Robert B. Annis Water Resources Institute has been at the forefront of water science scholarship, application, and education. AWRI’s state-of-the-art research infrastructure, explicit and direct engagement with people and place, and its dedication to training the water resources leaders of tomorrow have made it an invaluable resource for West Michigan’s dynamic coastal communities. Over four decades, it has grown into a nationally recognized education and research facility with strong endowments, global scholarly stature, a fleet of research vessels, over 48,000 square feet of dedicated space to conduct its work, and designation as a member of the National Association of Marine Laboratories. AWRI also stands as the only educational institution on the eastern shores of Lake Michigan dedicated to the study of aquatic ecosystems and serves as a key player in providing research opportunities for GVSU graduate and undergraduate students with its well-equipped aquatic science facilities. In the face of ever more visible challenges to ecosystem health and public higher education, the opportunities provided through AWRI make significant contributions to the fostering of healthy ecosystems and economies across the state of Michigan, the Midwest, and beyond.

Working with the provost, dean, scientific advisory board, faculty, staff, and AWRI’s deeply engaged external partners and supporters, the executive director will grow the institute’s standing as a leader in applied water research, training the next generation of aquatic and environmental science professionals to contribute to an emerging blue economy in Muskegon and the state. They will accomplish this by growing the institute’s research portfolio, collaborating across GVSU, maintaining AWRI’s leadership as a community supporter and resource, and expanding its educational offerings to a larger, more diverse group of future water science scholars.

Grand Valley State University has retained Isaacson, Miller, a national executive search firm, to assist the Robert B. Annis Water Resources Institute Executive Director Search Committee in its identification and review of candidates. All inquiries, nominations, and applications may be sent in confidence to the Isaacson Miller web site.