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MOSCOW, Idaho. Dr. Zach Penney, a Wallace High School graduate and proud Nimiipuu Tribal member, has received the University of Idaho Silver and Gold Award, one of the institution’s highest honors for alumni. The award recognizes graduates who have made outstanding contributions in their field and brought distinction to the university. Penney was honored on April 30th, 2026.
Dr. Penney earned his Ph.D. in Natural Resources from the University of Idaho with a focus on fisheries. Penney has built a career centered on fisheries biology, tribal leadership, and public service. He currently serves as Director of Strategic Initiatives for the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission, where his work supports tribal fisheries, treaty rights, and the long-term health of the Columbia River basin. He previously served as a senior advisor to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration during the Biden administration, helping guide fisheries and tribal engagement at the federal level.
His professional path reflects a strong commitment to science, community, and service. He started his career working for the Nez Perce Tribe’s Fisheries Program. At CRITFC, Penney has been recognized for advancing fisheries science and strengthening the relationship between tribal nations and natural resource management agencies. His leadership has helped elevate tribal perspectives in conversations about salmon recovery, habitat protection, and sustainable resource stewardship.
The University of Idaho’s Silver and Gold Award honors living alumni with a distinguished record of achievement, leadership, and service. Penney’s recognition adds to a career already marked by both professional excellence and community impact.
In addition to this honor, Penney has received other recognition for his work in fisheries science and leadership, including a Meritorious Service Award from the American Fisheries Society. His other list of accolades include:
· University of Idaho Silver and Gold Award (2026), recognizing distinguished alumni achievement and service.
· NOAA Senior Advisor to the Administrator (2022-2025), the first-ever role focused on both fisheries and tribal engagement.
· NOAA Sea Grant Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship (2014), serving as a legislative fellow in the U.S. House of Representatives office of Rep. Jared Huffman (CA-02).
· American Fisheries Society (AFS)/Sea Grant Best Student Paper Award (2013), for presentation at the AFS annual meeting in Little Rock, Arkansas.
· AFS Meritorious Service Award (2021), recognizing contributions to the fisheries profession.
· Director of Strategic Initiatives, Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission (CRITFC) (2025-present), after serving as Fishery Science Department Manager (2015-2022).
· Ph.D. in Natural Resources (Fisheries), University of Idaho (2013); M.S. in Earth and Ocean Sciences, University of Victoria (2007); B.S. in Fisheries, Sheldon Jackson College (2004).
Article Source: https://www.uidaho.edu/alumni/awards
