Congressman Langevin blogged about his visit to R/V Endeavor during the Endeavor 40th anniversary open house.

“For 40 years, the research vessel Endeavor has been providing hands-on learning experiences for scientists and would-be scientists. The National Science Foundation owns the ship, but it’s the Graduate School of Oceanography at the University of Rhode Island that operates it at sea – embarking on nearly 600 expeditions over the past four decades. For more than half the year, Endeavor is on the water with a crew of scientists and students. And just before it set sail again for a 30-day autumn expedition, the Endeavor opened up its doors for free tours from its home dock in Narragansett.

Endeavor’s open house was very well attended, and I was one of many Rhode Islanders who wanted an up-close look at the scientific vessel. It was incredible to see the capabilities on board, and the extensive recording equipment used to test the water and study marine life. It was exciting given the Endeavor’s long history of training the next generation of oceanographers – feeding an industry that is critical to protecting the Ocean State’s vast coastal resources. The Endeavor is a home away from home for the students and educators who study aboard her, and it was so interesting to share the experience for a day.

I was especially pleased to see the number of people stopping at the port for a tour. URI is an economic driver in our state and it trains many talented young people from Rhode Island and beyond. It’s important that Rhode Islanders, then, feel connected to URI and the work that they’re doing. URI supports our state in so many ways, and it was nice to see so many Rhode Islanders out to support URI.”