Building public trust in science requires more than good data, it demands connection. By bridging academic research, commercial innovation, and public policy, the AMS plays a powerful role in turning knowledge into real-world impact. To meet the challenges of our time from extreme weather to energy, public health to emergency response, we must continue to break down silos and champion communication across all sectors of our diverse membership, and with the general public.

Interdisciplinary collaboration isn’t just a goal, it’s already delivering results. Through efforts like the Early Career Leadership Academy and the Certified AMS Teacher program, I’ve seen firsthand how the Society’s strategic vision fosters innovation and opportunity. While serving as Commissioner on Professional Affairs I worked to expand these cross-cutting initiatives, and if elected to Council I would build on that momentum, growing synergies among commissions, boards, and committees. I also will stay focused to honor the legacy of the late Matt Parker by continuing to strengthen and grow AMS certification programs.

I’m especially passionate about mentoring students and early-career professionals, particularly women and those from underrepresented communities. These emerging leaders are the future of AMS, and I am deeply committed to helping them thrive through inclusive engagement, mentorship, and support.

My journey with AMS began in 2001 as an undergraduate walking into my first Annual Meeting in Albuquerque as a student assistant; I was the only one from my school and I knew no one. I quickly felt at home, and that experience shaped the course of my career. The relationships and inspiration I’ve found within this community are a constant source of purpose and pride. If elected to Council, I will lead with transparency, collaboration, and optimism, and I will work every day to ensure AMS remains a welcoming, forward-looking, and empowering home for all.

Maureen R. McCann is a broadcast meteorologist at Spectrum News 13 in Orlando, FL. In addition to her on-air role, McCann is a Certified Instructor with the National Disaster Preparedness Training Center, teaching FEMA curriculum on hazardous weather to emergency managers, public officials, community leaders, first responders and the general public. She served two 3-year terms as AMS Commissioner on Professional Affairs, rotating off in 2022.

McCann shares a hometown with the AMS; she was born and raised in the Boston area. She received a Bachelor of Science degree in Atmospheric Science from Cornell University in 2002 and a Master’s in Emergency in Crisis Management from the University of Central Florida (UCF) in 2020, along with a Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Systems.  In 2022, she was honored with the UCF Emergency Management Alumni Achievement Award.

McCann began her broadcasting career at WABI-TV5 in Bangor, Maine followed by WTVH-5 in Syracuse, NY and News 8 Austin in Austin, TX. She then moved to Denver, CO for a position at KMGH. In Denver, she earned an Emmy Award and Colorado Broadcaster’s Association Award for a storm chasing series following the late Tim Samaras and his research group. She has been with Spectrum News 13 since 2013. 

While an undergraduate, McCann was a student assistant at the 2001 and 2002 Annual Meetings, and she credits those early experiences to launching her involvement in the Society. She has participated in local chapters in Central New York, Central Texas, Denver/Boulder, and Central Florida. She served a term on the AMS Broadcast Board and was chair in 2013. As Commissioner on Professional Affairs, she maintained roles with the Awards Oversight Committee, Planning Commission, Early Career Leadership Academy, and Mentoring365 working group. She has served on draft committees for the Task Force on Certifications, Task Force on Leadership Development and the AMS Statement on Media Expectations in Severe Weather. McCann earned the CBM designation in 2008 and CCM in 2016. She was designated a Fellow of the AMS in January 2021. Currently, she serves on the AMS Board for Certified Digital Meteorologists. 

Outside of AMS, McCann has been a member of local Rotary clubs. She also holds membership with the Irish Meteorological Society and National Weather Association.