Scripps Alum Tim Gallaudet Named Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere

Navy Rear Adm. Tim Gallaudet, USN (Ret.), who received a doctorate from Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego, was sworn in as Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere today. 

Gallaudet had already joined the Navy and been commissioned an officer before he received a master’s degree in oceanography from Scripps in 1991, and then a doctorate in 2001. He was appointed Oceanographer of the Navy in September 2015.

Gallaudet credits his time at Scripps, first advised by oceanographer Jim Simpson, then later by underwater acoustician Christian DeMoustier, for teaching him more than just science.

“I am honored to have been unanimously confirmed by the Senate, and am certain my work at Scripps was absolutely essential to it,” said Gallaudet. “Nearly all the senators and Senate staffers complemented my scientific qualifications. More importantly, what I learned and whom I have maintained relationships with at Scripps will help me do the very best for the nation when I am sworn in and become the acting NOAA Administrator.”

In his new position, Gallaudet will oversee the day to day operations of NOAA as well as create strategic plans for the future, and supervise the many agencies that NOAA oversees including the National Marine Fisheries service, National Ocean Service, National Weather Service, and many others.

Gallaudet previously served with the Naval European Meteorology and Oceanography Detachment, Souda Bay, Greece; the Naval Oceanographic Office, and the staffs of the Commander, Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command and Oceanographer of the Navy as well as Deputy Oceanographer of the Navy for the Chief of Naval Operations.

- Mallory Pickett