Dear SML Community,

 

Honestly, I just did not ‘get’ the materials being hurled into the back row of the giant lecture hall during my first year in college. Why was I memorizing the Krebs cycle, when I really loved wildlife ecology? But there I was, in Introduction to Biology - a year-long overview of the entire field - required for all declared Biology Majors. I felt overwhelmed by this big class as well as these topics that didn’t really excite me. I began to question if I could see myself as a scientist and eventually ended up in my advisor’s office in a puddle of frustrated tears. Why was I struggling in my favorite subject in school since junior high?

 

Dr. McKenzie, my advisor, was an amazing field scientist whom I followed happily through the Oregon forests learning about plants and talking about ecology. He was living my dream job, but I could not imagine getting to where he was when I was being derailed by Intro Bio. He was there for me when I needed guidance and wisdom. He gave me his time, his long- view perspective, humor-filled cheerleading, and a plan for surviving Intro Bio that incorporated heaps of field time with him and a small group of ecology-loving students. With his help, I started to see myself as a scientist and kindled a passion for learning about our natural world that has sustained me for decades. And…here I sit, a PhD ecologist, running a field station…. Great teachers have long-lasting positive impacts on our lives. The poet W.B. Yeats said that “education is not the filling of a pot but the lighting of a fire.” 

Shoals has so many fire-lighting teachers! Every summer, I witness the positive impact of great teaching on our students. Last year, the SML community lost a legendary “life-changing” teacher and former director (1979-94), J.B. Heiser, who passed away on Earth Day. As we reflect on this one-year anniversary of his passing, we are excited to announce a memorial scholarship named in his memory, and which honors his legacy – The J.B. Heiser Marine Vertebrates Fund.  

 

Ric Martini, former SML faculty as well as dear friend and colleague of J.B., has generously established this endowment to provide support for Cornell undergraduate students, for courses and research at SML focused on marine vertebrates. This will open doors for many Cornell student scientists and provide them with opportunities that J.B. was passionate about. Currently, 85% of Cornell students who attend classes at SML receive scholarships - there is more demand than we can meet. We are grateful for this opportunity to alleviate demand by providing students with additional funds to attend our programs. It’s an incredible gift where the money is invested, and scholarships are awarded from the income earned. This allows the original gift to benefit generations of SML students.

If you are interested in donating to this fund, you can do so through SML’s giving page via Cornell and designate your gift to the JB Heiser Marine Vertebrates Fund in the special instructions box.                                            

                                            Gratefully,

Visit Appledore Island and Shoals Marine Lab this summer for one of our overnight programs and have an unforgettable experience!

Shoals Ecology - The best of everything Shoals has to offer! An adult program geared towards science exploration in three subject areas: ornithology, marine mammals, and intertidal species.

 

Seascapes and Landscapes - Join local artists and explore the beautiful landscapes, flora, and fauna of Appledore Island for a four-night, five-day creative getaway. And it is not just about art! Learn about the complex ecology surrounding the Isles of Shoals while exploring new mediums, techniques, and styles.

 

Take a Bite out of Appledore - In this unique retreat, we bring together ecologists and chefs to interpret the many natural gifts the Isles of Shoals have to offer. From plant foraging in edible uplands, to fishing with rod & reel, to kelp collecting in the intertidal zone, you will gain a deep appreciation for local, sustainable cuisine.

 

Isle of Shoals Birding - Join NH Audubon staff on a journey to Appledore Island for a three-day or four-day birding adventure! Over 200 species of songbirds, seabirds, and waterfowl occur on Appledore as migrants, making it a perfect spot to observe fall movements.

Our impact reports detail the difference we make at Shoals Marine Lab each season. Click below to learn what we accomplished in education, research, outreach, and sustainability in 2022.

No matter the reason or amount you gave, we want you to know that we appreciate your support during Cornell Giving Day and the UNH 603 Challenge. Our work wouldn’t be possible without your support, and we don’t take it for granted. As volunteers, donors, alumni, partners, mentors, and friends - your giving spirit empowers us to sustain our mission, and we are grateful for you!  

81 donors

$30,962 raised  

 

184 donors 

$93,541 raised  

It’s not too late to join the Shoal’s Navigator Circle 2023! A gift of $2,500 or more (during the current fiscal year) will qualify you as a 2023 member of this special group of SML supporters who benefit from exclusive programming throughout the year.