Digging Deep, Rising High: The Lifetime Achievements of Jeff Shellebarger

In our fourth story in this seven-part series, we’re excited to highlight our 2025 Franklin alumni award winners—showcasing their accomplishments and providing some insights as we seek this year’s nominations. The Franklin College of Arts and Sciences Alumni Awards honor outstanding alumni across various categories. These individuals exemplify rhe Franklin Spark, the characteristics that unite the arts and sciences: ambition, curiosity, creativity, innovation and leadership, throughout their industries and communities.  

Nominations can be made through September 30 across eight categories: College-Service Award, Distinguished Alumni Award, Family Award, Innovation Award, Lifetime Award, Mid-Career Award, Organization Award, and Young Alumni Award. 

Jeff Shellebarger, a double-degree graduate in Geology from the University of Georgia, has spent his life bridging the worlds of science, business, and global leadership. His journey—from field research in the Appalachian Mountains to the helm of one of the world’s largest energy companies—embodies the transformative power of a Franklin College of Arts and Sciences education. 

Jeff’s passion for geology was sparked during his time at UGA, where he earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees. His early research took him deep into the North Georgia mountains, studying the region’s complex rock formations and laying the foundation for a career that would span continents and decades. 

Soon after graduation, Jeff joined Chevron as an exploration geologist. Over the next 38 years, he rose through the ranks, living and working abroad for a decade and leading projects across North America, Asia, Africa, and Canada. His scientific expertise and strategic vision culminated in his role as President of Chevron’s North American Exploration and Production Operations, where he oversaw six major business units and helped shape the future of global energy production. 

Jeff’s career placed him at the intersection of science, policy, and international affairs. He became a respected leader in investment strategy, regulatory policy, and global partnerships, and in 2021, he served as Chairman of the World Petroleum Congress, convening top energy and government leaders to discuss the future of the industry. 

Even in retirement, Jeff remains deeply connected to UGA. He serves on the Department of Geology Alumni Advisory Board, offering mentorship and strategic insight. In 2015, he and his wife, Sydney, established the Shellebarger Professorship in Geology, an endowed position that supports faculty excellence and advances research in the geosciences. Their generosity also extends to the Geology Faculty Start-Up Fund, which helps recruit and support new faculty members.  

Today, Jeff continues to stay active—spending time outdoors with family and friends, supporting UGA, and engaging with the next generation of scientists. His life reflects the very best of Franklin’s ideals: a career built on curiosity, leadership, and global impact. Truly, a lifetime of achievement. 

Jeff’s legacy is not only one of professional achievement, but of enduring commitment to education and mentorship. His contributions have ensured that future generations of UGA students receive the same rigorous and inspiring foundation that shaped his own path. 

For more information on the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences Alumni Awards and previous winners, click here. 

To submit a nomination, click here.