University College announces the appointment of Mary Skopec as executive director of Iowa Lakeside Laboratory Regent Resource Center, effective Dec. 20, 2016. 

Skopec comes to the University of Iowa from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR), where she has held several positions within the Watershed Monitoring and Assessment Section. She has also been an adjunct assistant professor in the UI Department of Geography since 2000. 

Skopec earned a BS and MA in physical geography and an interdisciplinary PhD in environmental science from the University of Iowa. 

In her new role at Lakeside Laboratory, Skopec will provide strategic vision and oversight for the Board of Regents’ biological field station, one of only two in the state of Iowa. Founded in 1909, Lakeside Laboratory’s mission includes academic course work, public outreach, and ongoing research, particularly in the area of water quality.

At the DNR, Skopec equipped Iowans with the tools needed to engage in public discourse regarding our natural resources. According to Skopec, “I have seen first-hand the desire of Iowa’s citizens to protect and improve the quality of our water resources.” 

“Skopec’s unique skill set and expertise make her an outstanding choice to lead Lakeside Laboratory at this critical junction,” notes Lon Moeller, associate provost for undergraduate education and dean of University College. “She understands the vital contribution biological field stations have to play in today’s environmental landscape. We are pleased to welcome her to Lakeside Laboratory.”