June 6, 2017 — SEAFOOD NEWS — Chris Oliver, executive director of the North Pacific Fisheries Management Council and soon to be head of the National Marine Fisheries Service, did not want a going away party and his staff assured him they would not throw one during his last fisheries council meeting.
But shortly after the agency “B” reports yesterday morning, members of the Council’s Advisory Panel, the Scientific and Statistical Committee, other agencies involved in Alaska’s fishing industry, and stakeholders all quietly gathered in the main meeting room to wish him well.
Deputy Director Dave Witherell started things off with a tongue-in-cheek video showing the young Oliver coming to Alaska from Texas and “of course, falling in love with Alaska.” Oliver is an accomplished hunter and fisherman, one of many talents highlighted in the humorous tribute.
Witherell turned serious at the end, though, and called Oliver an important role model, a “leader, mentor, and friend” — words that would be echoed by many during the event.
Then Captain Stephen White, Coast Guard member of the Council, stepped up to present Oliver with the Meritorious Public Service Award on behalf of the Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard.
As White pinned the award on Oliver’s lapel, the commendation was read aloud.
“….Mr. Oliver led the Council’s efforts in rationalizing the world’s most complex fisheries, significantly improving safety measures and practices amongst federal fishing fleets and preserving sustainability of fishery resources for future generations.
“…Mr. Oliver’s vigilance, leadership, and professionalism have been fundamental to the stewardship of Alaska’s fishery resources. His many contributions and dedication to public service are most heartily commended and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Coast Guard.” The commendation was signed by Rear Admiral Michael F McAllister, Commander of the 17th Coast Guard District.
Other members of the Council related poignant and humorous stories about Oliver and his 15 years as the executive director of the Council — longer than any other.
Council chairman Dan Hull described Oliver as a “great mentor, pragmatic, a man who gets straight to business, but he’s always open to alternative views and innovation. He’s been a strong supporter of our partner agencies and user groups and communities.
“There is no one more experienced or knowledgeable,” Hull said, “or with a better character or attitude to lead NOAA Fisheries.
“The loss to this region is a huge gain for the nation, the agency and for the regional fisheries management council system across the country,” Hull said.
Oliver took the microphone after sustained applause and remarked “I wouldn’t have had this opportunity if it weren’t for this Council. And the support of an excellent staff. They make me look good.” A slight pause, then “They mostly make me look good.”
The audience, many of them on their feet, laughed lightly.
Then with an emotion-laden voice, Oliver said, “This has been the hardest career decision I’ve ever made. I will do you proud.”
This story originally appeared on SeafoodNews.com, a subscription site. It is reprinted with permission.