Celebratory Wishes to the 2025 Graduating Cohort!
The University of California, San Diego's Scripps Institution of Oceanography celebrated the graduation of its Class of 2025 this June, marking the culmination of years of dedicated research and study in the field of oceanography and environmental systems.
The graduating class, comprising 88 graduates from PhD, Master of Science (MS), Master of Advanced Studies (MAS) degree programs, and 148 graduates from the Environmental Systems (ESYS) undergraduate programs, is set to make a significant impact in various sectors of marine science and conservation.
Among the graduates, Elizabeth Perez, an MAS MBC student, focused her capstone research on coral reef resilience and bleaching trend analysis to support local management in Pohnpei, Micronesia. Upon graduation, she will be working a short-term position with the Houk Lab at the University of Guam's Marine Laboratory, investigating potential environmental drivers of coral bleaching in Pohnpei.
Hale Brown, an MAS CSP graduate, found significant spatial disparities and gaps in current heat policies through a mixed-methods approach that combined detailed mapping of heat-related hospitalizations with interviews from key stakeholders. Brown's capstone project, Nighttime-Accentuated Heatwaves in California, addresses the threat of extreme nighttime heat and its intensification due to climate change.
Cate Stone, a BS in Environmental Systems graduate, developed an interest in pursuing a career in water resources through internships and will begin a full-time job as a stormwater/environmental specialist with a consulting firm in San Diego after graduation. Stone also participated in a seven-week field research program through the UC Natural Reserve System's California Ecology and Conservation Program during her studies.
George Nassar, who earned his bachelor's degree in marine biology, focused his research on kelp forest ecology, restoration, and culture techniques. After graduation, he will continue his work at the Smith Lab as part of the BS/MS contiguous program.
Scripps Oceanography is renowned as one of the world's most important centres for global earth science research and education, offering unparalleled education and training for the next generation of scientific and environmental leaders. The institution's comprehensive graduate degrees (PhD, MS, MAS) primarily focus on oceanography, marine biodiversity and conservation, and climate science, while its undergraduate programs (Scripps and ESYS) train students in Earth, ocean, atmospheric, and environmental systems sciences.
The graduation ceremonies were held on Pawka Green to honour the dedication, perseverance, and accomplishments of the graduates. Keynote speakers at the events included Scripps alumna Mayela Manasjan '03, Marcia McNutt, PhD '78, president of the National Academy of Sciences, and six-time IRONMAN World Champion Mark Allen '80.
As these graduates embark on their careers, they will carry the knowledge and skills they've gained from Scripps Oceanography to address some of the most pressing challenges facing our planet today, from climate change to marine conservation.
The graduates of the University of California, San Diego's Scripps Institution of Oceanography, Class of 2025, will apply their learnings in marine biology, climate science, and oceanographic research to sectors of marine science and conservation. Elizabeth Perez, an MAS MBC graduate, will delve into coral reef resilience and bleaching trend analysis, while working with the Houk Lab at the University of Guam's Marine Laboratory. Hale Brown, an MAS CSP graduate, will address the threat of extreme nighttime heat with his capstone project, Nighttime-Accentuated Heatwaves in California.
Cate Stone, an Environmental Systems graduate, has developed an interest in water resources and will start a career as a stormwater/environmental specialist in San Diego. George Nassar, who earned a degree in marine biology, will continue his research on kelp forest ecology at the Smith Lab. Scripps Oceanography offers programs that focus on oceanography, marine biodiversity, climate science, and education, equipping students with skills for career and personal-growth, as well as self-development.
During the graduation ceremonies on Pawka Green, keynote speakers inspired the graduates to address the urgent challenges facing our planet, such as climate change and marine conservation, utilizing the skills-training and learning they've gained from Scripps Oceanography. Their impact may transcend academic life, as some may even aim for a career in sports, potentially excelling in ncaa-basketball or even making it to the NBA.
