Dr. Carolyn A. Thoroughgood, dean of the University of Delaware Graduate College of Marine Studies (CMS) has announced the addition of David McCarren, Commander, U.S. Navy (retired), as executive officer of the college and executive director of the Sea Grant College Program. He replaces Richard Tarpley, who is leaving after 11 years of service in the dual position.
A world-class institution with more than 200 personnel, including students, faculty, and staff, CMS operates research and teaching facilities on the University's main campus in Newark and at the Hugh R. Sharp Campus in Lewes on the shores of Delaware Bay. As executive officer, McCarren will oversee an annual budget in excess of $13 million and be responsible for the day-to-day management of the college, including personnel, purchasing, ship operations, outreach, and contract-and-grant negotiations.
Additionally, McCarren will be responsible for the efficient operation of the University of Delaware Sea Grant College Program, which conducts research and education projects aimed at fostering the wise use, conservation, and management of marine resources. In February, Delaware Sea Grant received a $2.8 million award from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the State of Delaware, and the University to pursue 23 projects during the next year in areas ranging from coastal engineering to marine biotechnology.
McCarren has 20 years of experience administering research and education projects for the U.S. Navy. Prior to his recent retirement, at the rank of commander, McCarren served as Deputy, Technology and Integration, for the Naval Oceanographic Office at Stennis Space Center, Mississippi.
There, he managed 175 scientists and engineers in the evaluation and acquisition of new technologies to support the office's worldwide ocean survey mission. He oversaw a budget of more than $11 million and was regularly called upon to brief Cabinet-level visitors about the office's mission and policies. He also developed a comprehensive report for the Navy detailing the future direction of oceanographic data collection, including the use of advanced communications, airborne laser bathymetry, and autonomous underwater vehicles.
McCarren received his bachelor's degree in geological sciences from Pennsylvania State University and his master's degree in physical oceanography and meteorology from the Naval Postgraduate School. He is a member of the Marine Technology Society.
McCarren's office is in Robinson Hall on the Newark campus. He and his wife and their two daughters reside in Newark, Del.