Robert Gaudette Named Admiral Of The Chesapeake

     Annapolis, Md. -- Governor Martin O’Malley has designated Robert P. Gaudette Admiral of the Chesapeake for his outstanding leadership in public access and environmental initiatives and service to the State and its citizens. Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Secretary John Griffin presented Gaudette, newly retired from his position as DNR Director of Boating Services, with the award during his farewell celebration on May 31.

     “Mr. Gaudette has been a tireless advocate for boating access within our State’s waterways and the Chesapeake Bay throughout his 32 years with DNR,” said Governor O’Malley. “He exemplifies outstanding leadership and public service, and he understands the vital connection between our environment and our children’s future. That’s why he is more than deserving of the Admiral of the Chesapeake award.”

     The Admiral of the Chesapeake is awarded by Maryland’s Governor to those who have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to the conservation and restoration of the Chesapeake Bay, its surrounding landscapes, and the life that inhabits them. This lifetime achievement award is the highest honor the Governor can bestow on an individual for environmental contributions, and is given on an as-merited basis. 

     “Bob ranks in the top one percent of public servants that I have been honored to work with over my long career,” said Griffin. “He has been a valued leader for the Department and will be missed by me and all of his fellow colleagues.” 

     Gaudette joined the DNR family in 1981, serving as Director of several programs including Waterway Improvement, Engineering and Construction, and most recently, Boating Services. For the past five years, Gaudette has done an exemplary job in overseeing the funding and technical services for boating access, dredging and navigation projects, and leading advancements in waterway planning, boating regulations, Clean Marinas, marine sewage pumpouts and several State marina facilities. 

     Before his time at DNR, Gaudette worked as Assistant County Engineer with the Talbot County Department of Public Works where he coordinated public boating access and other projects for the County.  

     He was raised in Cambridge, Maryland and received his undergraduate degree from the University of Maryland Baltimore County and his master’s from Johns Hopkins University. 

     “I have very much enjoyed my time at DNR and working alongside other knowledgeable and dedicated people who share a common goal and passion to improve and promote the Chesapeake Bay,” said Gaudette. 

     Gaudette was also recently appointed by Governor O’Malley to the State Marine Contractors Licensing Board.