File/AP PhotoNew Orleans, La.- According to a news release from the University of New Orleans, President Barack Obama has nominated UNO professor Norma Jean Mattei to the Mississippi River Commission.
In that capacity, they say Mattei will help oversee a drainage basin that covers 41 percent of the nation.
Mattei is a professor and chair of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering.
Mattei says, "The Mississippi River plays such an important role in the economic health of our nation, but with today's changing weather patterns, we can't forget that the mighty Mississippi can have a major impact on the safety of the people living on her banks."
She says she is very excited "to serve the public in this capacity."
Mattei's appointment must be confirmed by the U.S. Senate.
If confirmed, she will serve as commissioner for a nine year term.
