06/15/2026
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1NH5tefGqR/ We lost one of our own--Dr. Cox presented a Science Cafe in March 2022.
The Gulf and Caribbean Fisheries Institute (GCFI) is deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Shelly-Ann Cox, Chief Fisheries Officer of Barbados, an esteemed fisheries scientist, and long-standing member of the GCFI family.
For more than a decade, Dr. Cox was an active and valued contributor to GCFI’s work and mission. Her engagement with the Institute began during her time as a student at The University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus.
Throughout her career, Dr. Cox brought knowledge, integrity, and unwavering dedication to every role she undertook. As Chief Fisheries Officer of Barbados, she became a respected regional leader and advocate for evidence-based fisheries management, collaborative governance, and the empowerment of Caribbean fishing communities. Her thoughtful contributions and willingness to share her expertise greatly enriched the work of GCFI and strengthened partnerships throughout the region.
Dr. Cox was also a champion for women in marine and fisheries science. In 2016, she was instrumental in organizing the first Gender in Fisheries Session with other colleagues. She was also part of the team that launched GCFI’s Leading Ladies Calendar, an initiative that celebrated and highlighted the remarkable contributions of women across the Caribbean’s marine and fisheries sectors. Her contributions at GCFI included presentations on managing the sargassum influx, innovative approaches to fishery monitoring and traceability (DigiFish) and more recently on transforming fisheries through data innovation Her involvement with GCFI also reflected her commitment to mentorship, inclusion, and inspiring future generations of ocean professionals.
“Shelly-Ann embodied the spirit of service, collaboration, and excellence that defines our regional community,” said Fadilah Ali, Executive Director of GCFI. “She was a generous colleague, a thoughtful leader, and a passionate advocate for sustainable fisheries. She was always willing to support and her contributions to GCFI and to the wider Caribbean fisheries community leave a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire us.”
On behalf of its Board of Directors, members, and the broader GCFI Family, the Institute extends its deepest condolences to Dr. Cox’s family, friends, colleagues in Barbados, and all those across the region whose lives she touched through her leadership, mentorship, and friendship.
Dr. Shelly-Ann Cox’s passing is a profound loss to the Caribbean fisheries community. She will be remembered not only for her professional accomplishments, but also for her kindness, generosity, and steadfast commitment to advancing sustainable fisheries and empowering people throughout the region.
