Office of the Secretary

Contact: John Wright 202/208-6416

For Release: April 10, 1997

Brown will advise Secretary Babbitt on scientific and policy issues of primary importance to the Department

Secretary of the Interior Bruce Babbitt today announced the appointment of William Y. Brown as Science Advisor to the Secretary. Brown will work directly with Secretary Babbitt on key scientific and policy issues concerning the Department.

“Bill has a unique blend of skills, experience and background that will serve the Department and the Administration well,” said Babbitt. “His advice and recommendations will help us continue to honor our longstanding commitment to leaving the land in better condition for future generations to enjoy.”

Brown, 48, is a native of Artesia, California. He received his formal training at the University of Virginia (B.A. 1969, biology, with highest distinction), John Hopkins University (M.A.T. 1970), the University of Hawaii (Ph.D. 1973, zoology), and Harvard Law School (J.D., 1977).

Before taking the position at Interior, Dr. Brown served as director and executive committee member of the Center for Marine Conservation, Environmental Training Institute, Environmental Law Institute, and the Environmental and Energy Study Institute. He also served as director of the U.S. Committee for the United Nations Environment Programme, Audubon Naturalist Society, and Harvard Environmental Law Society.

In 1977, Dr. Brown was appointed director of the federal Endangered Species Scientific Authority, an agency created by executive of the President, with responsibility for U.S. endangered species treaty commitments. In 1980, he was appointed director of the International Convention Advisory Commission, with similar responsibilities. He left government service in 1981, to join the Environmental Defense Fund, where he served as senior scientist and attorney, and acting executive director.

Dr. Brown served as director of government affairs, and later as vice president for environmental planning, at WMX Technologies, Inc. (Waste Management), from 1985-1994. In 1994, he joined Hagler Bailey Consulting, where he directed its international environmental programs. He affiliated with the World Wildlife Fund in March 1996, where he served as Senior Fellow, advising on environmental issues.

Dr. Brown is a member of Phi Beta Kappa, Sigma Xi (The Scientific Research Society). Phi Sigma (The Biological Research Society), the IUCN Commission on Environmental Planning & Strategy, and the D.C. bar. He has served on many panels and advisory groups, including the National Academy of Sciences Committee on Science and the Endangered Species Act, and the State Department Antarctic Advisory Committee. He has also authored numerous publications.

He lives near Glen Echo, Maryland, with his wife, Mary McLeod and two daughters, Julia and Emma Brown. His wife Mary is an attorney with the State Department.

Dr. Brown’s appointment as Science Advisor to the Secretary is effective immediately.

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