Bigelow Laboratory Appoints New Board Leadership

Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences announced upcoming changes to the leadership of its board of trustees today, as well as the addition of three new trustees and two new members to its advisory board. Bill Burgess will replace Louise Bowditch as chair and will lead the board of trustees in their efforts to support and guide the nonprofit institute's global ocean research. All appointments will take effect on October 3.

"Our science is imperative to the future of the oceans and the planet, and it wouldn’t be possible without the support of our board and donors," said Deborah Bronk, president and CEO of Bigelow Laboratory. "Louise has been a vital leader on our board for the last six years, and it’s exciting to have such an accomplished successor to continue her work."

Burgess has worked closely with emerging growth technology companies as an adviser and investor throughout his career. He is a general partner at North Bridge Venture Partners. Bill has deep experience on boards of public and private corporations as well as nonprofit organizations, including having served as chair at The New England Aquarium and Vice Chair of Dartmouth College. He has served on the Bigelow Laboratory board of trustees since 2015 alongside his wife and fellow trustee Barbara Burgess.

Tom Allen, Priscilla Brooks, and Marion Howard will join the board of trustees in October, and Marion Flores will begin serving as treasurer. Brigitta Tadmor will remain as vice chair. Joining the advisory board will be Kimberly Hamilton and Maureen Stancik Boyce.

"Bigelow Laboratory’s bold approach to science is revealing ocean life in new ways and unlocking its hidden potential to help address global challenges, Burgess said. "The Laboratory is known for both the quality and efficiency of its research. I look forward to helping this incredible group of scientists and staff as they deepen our understanding of the Blue Planet."