Bill Taylor joined Michigan State University in 1980 and is currently a University Distinguished Professor in Global Fisheries Systems in the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife. He is an internationally recognized expert in Great Lakes fisheries ecology, population dynamics, governance, and management. Throughout his career, Taylor has been active in the American Fisheries Society, serving as president of the society, the Michigan Chapter, and the North Central Division. Currently, he holds a U.S. Presidential appointment as a U.S. Commissioner (alternate) for the Great Lakes Fishery Commission. Recently, he has been named to the inaugural class of the American Fisheries Society Fellows Program.