WASHINGTON, D.C. – NCAS-M proudly celebrates four members of its community who have been recognized by the American Meteorological Society for outstanding achievements in atmospheric science, mentorship, and professional leadership.
These honors reflect the breadth of excellence across the NCAS-M community, from pioneering Earth system research to mentorship, science communication, and community engagement.
Dr. Xin-Zhong Liang Receives the Jagadish Shukla Earth System Predictability Prize
Dr. Xin-Zhong Liang
University of Maryland
NCAS-M faculty member Dr. Xin-Zhong Liang of the University of Maryland has received the Jagadish Shukla Earth System Predictability Prize as part of the 2027 AMS Awards and Honors.
The award recognizes Dr. Liang’s pioneering advances in regional Earth system modeling, hydroclimate predictability, and integrated human–Earth system prediction. His work has strengthened the scientific foundation for actionable weather and climate decision support.
NCAS-M Alumna Isha Renta Lopez Recognized for Outstanding Mentorship
Isha Renta Lopez
NOAA Weather Program Office
NCAS-M alumna Isha Renta Lopez, now with the NOAA Weather Program Office, has received the Robert H. and Joanne Simpson Mentorship Award.
The award recognizes her commitment to mentoring early-career scientists and expanding access to STEM for Hispanic and Latin communities through science communication and community engagement.
Dr. Sen Chiao Selected as an AMS Fellow
Dr. Sen Chiao
Howard University
NCAS-M congratulates Director Dr. Sen Chiao on his selection as a Fellow of the American Meteorological Society. Election as an AMS Fellow recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the atmospheric, oceanic, or hydrologic sciences, or their applications, over a substantial period of years.
Dr. Charles Ichoku Selected as an AMS Fellow
Dr. Charles Ichoku
University of Maryland, Baltimore County
NCAS-M also congratulates faculty Dr. Charles Ichoku on his selection as a Fellow of the American Meteorological Society. The distinction recognizes his sustained contributions to atmospheric science and his impact on the broader scientific community.
Celebrating Excellence Across the NCAS-M Community
These national recognitions highlight the impact of the NCAS-M community across scientific research, mentorship, education, science communication, and service.
NCAS-M congratulates Dr. Xin-Zhong Liang, Isha Renta Lopez, Dr. Sen Chiao, and Dr. Charles Ichoku on these well-deserved honors. Their achievements exemplify NCAS-M’s commitment to advancing atmospheric science and supporting the next generation of leaders in the field.
