Welcome to February everyone, a month filled with love and Black history. This month, I have started reading Undercurrents of Power: Aquatic Culture in the African Diaspora by Kevin Dawson. It's an amazing account of the strong maritime skills and spiritual meaning of water in West African communities and how that was carried on during slavery in the Americas. It is a great companion to the book Black Jacks by W. Jeffrey Bolster about African American seamen in the age of sail. These are important stories to learn and share as while our maritime culture origins from around the world and certainly before European settlement, it is not highlighted and celebrated enough here in the Gulf of Maine. Black slaves and freemen were widely lauded for their maritime skills before, during, and after slavery.
Covering 70% of the earth’s surface, the ocean is naturally and strongly intertwined with human history and achievement. Let’s elevate the accomplishments and contributions of Black Americans as well as indigenous people who are exploring, understanding, and protection the ocean. There is a growing movement to revive these stories and importantly, grow Black expertise and influence in all things oceans from such organizations as Black in Marine Science, National Association of Black Scuba Divers, Organization of Black Maritime Graduates, and so many more. To learn more history, check out this article by the Ocean Conservancy and if you are near the Mystic Seaport Museum, there is an on-going exhibit about African American and Native American maritime history curated by Dr. Akeia de Barros Gomes.
Please help Shoals Marine Laboratory do our part of expanding diversity in marine sciences by donating to and/or spreading the word about our diversity scholarship. Let’s spread the love of diversity and the ocean!
With gratitude,
Don’t forget about our scholarship offers. This summer we are again offering a variety of scholarships including need-based, merit-based, course-specific and the Shoals Diversity Scholarships. Prospective students can apply for (and receive) multiple scholarships.
Deadlines for scholarships is March 17th. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our Academic Coordinators Dave (david.buck@unh.edu) and Liz (elizabeth.craig@unh.edu) for if you have other questions.
The Shoals Undergraduate Research Program (SURG) is specifically designed for undergraduate college students over the summer break. SURGs work directly with faculty mentors and SML scientists to conduct research experiments and projects, combining new areas of discovery with ongoing, long-term monitoring. SURG provides invaluable experience and helps students develop skills that will increase their marketability when it's time to apply to graduate school or pursue your career aspirations.
Want to live on the island this summer, conduct exciting research, and get paid? The SURG application deadline March 1st, so don't wait!
Mark your calendars! On Thursday, March 16, Cornell's extensive network of alumni, family, and friends around the world will come together to show their support for the next generation of leaders during Cornell Giving Day. This year more than ever, we need your support to sustain a robust annual operating fund which is imperative for supporting expenses incurred by the rising costs of food, fuel, and building materials.
If you are interested in volunteering as a fundraising Giving Day Champion, please contact Mike Coburn (Alumni and Friends Association Chair) at mcoburn@bcm.edu. Thank you for helping us achieve our goals during this year’s Cornell Giving Day!
