Posted on April 17, 2023
Dr. Greg Stunz has been named the Senior Executive Director of the Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies (HRI) at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi (TAMU-CC) by Dr. Kelly Miller, President and CEO of TAMU-CC. Stunz has served as HRI’s Interim Senior Executive Director since November 2022.
“Dr. Greg Stunz’s commitment to the HRI mission, his incredible record as a researcher and Endowed Chair, and his proven success as a servant leader will ensure further excellence as the Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies continues to grow its national and international profile,” Dr. Miller said.
Stunz first joined HRI in September 2007 as one of the founding chairs. In addition to his role as Senior Executive Director, Stunz is HRI’s Chair for Fisheries and Ocean Health, Director of the Center for Sportfish Science and Conservation at HRI, and a Texas A&M University System Regents Professor.
“I am honored to take on the role of Senior Executive Director at HRI and follow in the footsteps of the outstanding leaders that have come before me,” Stunz said. “We will continue to implement the vision that Ed Harte set forth when he founded the Institute by developing transdisciplinary, science-driven solutions that benefit the greater Gulf. I look forward to leading HRI while working alongside our Chairs and outstanding institutional team.”
Stunz is the fourth Senior Executive Director of HRI since its inception in 2000. Previous directors included Dr. David Yoskowitz, Dr. Larry McKinney, and Dr. Robert Furgason.
“I am thrilled to see Dr. Stunz in his new role as the head of HRI,” said Dr. Ahmed Mahdy, Executive Vice President for Research & Innovation at TAMU-CC. “I am confident that under his leadership HRI will multiply its impact as a beacon for Gulf of Mexico research. Greg brings a stellar research experience and engagement record with a demonstrated commitment to service excellence. I look forward to the exciting future of HRI and all the accomplishments that Dr. Stunz and the HRI team will achieve.”
Stunz came to TAMU-CC in 2002 as a marine biology professor after holding positions in academia and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). With his experience in both research and management, he recognizes the value of science-driven solutions to address real-world problems. Additionally, Stunz brings an understanding that people are a key part of the equation, and managing for both a healthy environment and economy is vital for the Gulf of Mexico.
Stunz has conducted extensive field research. Whether getting “hands-on” with sharks, examining how artificial reefs enhance the marine environment, or gathering data to develop sound sportfishing regulations, Stunz’s research provides an objective foundation for wise management that helps build sound policy.
He is often sought out to address governmental, academic, and private sector groups on topics ranging from projections of Red Snapper population recovery to the future of sportfishing in the Gulf of Mexico. Stunz lends his experience to multiple local and national boards and committees including Chairman of the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council, the Texas Sea Grant Advisory Committee, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Coastal Resources Advisory Committee, among others.
