Michael R. Vaughan of Christiansburg, Va., professor of fisheries and wildlife sciences in the College of Natural Resources at Virginia Tech, has been conferred the "professor emeritus" title by the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors.

The title of emeritus may be conferred on retired professors and associate professors, administrative officers, librarians, and exceptional staff members who are specially recommended to the board of visitors by Virginia Tech President Charles W. Steger. Nominated individuals who are approved by the board of visitors receive an emeritus certificate from the university.

A member of the Virginia Tech community since 1980, Vaughan has achieved international recognition by conducting leading research on the biology, ecology, and management of bears, while also contributing to the knowledge on deer, tigers, and sea turtles. His contributions have been published in more than 100 peer-reviewed scientific journal articles and book chapters.

He has filled leadership roles in the International Association of Bear Research and Management and The Wildlife Society, and has served on numerous working groups and advisory boards. He has been recognized with several awards including the National Wildlife Federation Environmental Publication Award, the Virginia Wildlife Professional Award, and the National Biological Service Performance Award.

He has twice served as leader of the award-winning Virginia Cooperative Fisheries and Wildlife Research Unit, which is based in the College of Natural Resources’ Department of Fisheries and Wildlife Sciences. He says one of his most important accomplishments was mentoring 45 graduate students.

Vaughan received his bachelor's degree from North Carolina State University, a master’s degree from Oregon State University, and a Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin, Madison.

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