To promote the value of ocean science, enhance ocean literacy, contribute to policy and increase public and private support, GSO engages marine scientists, students, policymakers, business leaders and the public in Rhode Island and around the globe.
Even in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, GSO continued to build on its portfolio of outreach programs in 2020.
The Coastal Resources Center worked directly with fishing communities internationally and locally to address COVID-19 challenges. They highlighted risks and fostered dialogue in Ghana, linked Filipino fisherfolk directly to buyers, and in partnership with Rhode Island Sea Grant, aided the aquaculture industry and fisheries sales while continuing critical work on coastal resilience and marine spatial planning.
The Office of Marine Programs focused on and engaged K-12 students—their classes and activities upended by this year’s abrupt switch to distance learning—with ocean science content delivered virtually in their homes. The Inner Space Center provided professional development for teachers, policymakers and other marine-related stakeholders and engaged middle, high school and undergraduate students in virtual programs. The Coastal Institute also provided virtual climate change lessons for high school students and undergraduates.
Public seminars and lectures hosted on campus transitioned to online delivery coordinated by GSO students, faculty, the Coastal Resources Center, Inner Space Center, R.I. Sea Grant and the Coastal Institute with leading scientists, journalists, and ocean practitioners.
GSO informed audiences through print and digital magazines, including 41ºN, published by the Coastal Institute and Rhode Island Sea Grant, and GSO’s alumni magazine, Aboard GSO.