UOG CIS and Sea Grant Celebrate “Homecoming” at Alumni Mixer Benefiting Endowment Fund

The University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant (UOG CIS & Sea Grant) brought together dozens of sustainability professionals, partners, and supporters for a special “Homecoming”-themed alumni mixer in December at Capitol Kitchen, raising funds for the UOG Endowment Fund while strengthening the island’s network of environmental leaders.

The evening event drew current and former team members, program partners, and supporters who have contributed to building Guam’s capacity in sustainability, conservation, and environmental protection over the years. The gathering underscored the growing community of professionals with ties to UOG CIS & Sea Grant who continue to advance sustainability initiatives across the island.

“This was more than just a reunion—it was a celebration of the community we’ve built together and the impact we continue to make on Guam’s future,” said Austin Shelton Ph.D., Director of the UOG CIS & Sea Grant. “Seeing so many familiar faces, from alumni to partners who have been with us from the beginning, reminds us why this work matters and how far we’ve come together.”

The fundraiser featured a grand prize raffle with proceeds benefiting the UOG Endowment Fund. Jae Cruz, an alumnus of the Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps, won the evening’s top prize—a two-day staycation at the Hyatt Regency Guam.

UOG CIS & Sea Grant associate director for communications and community engagement Kyle Mandapat emphasized the importance of maintaining connections within Guam’s sustainability community. “Our alumni and partners are leaders in their fields, working across government, nonprofits, and the private sector to create a more sustainable Guam,” he said. “Events like this help us stay connected, share ideas, and inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.”

The “Homecoming” theme reflected both the return of professionals who have come back to Guam to contribute their expertise and the sense of family that defines the CIS & Sea Grant community. Many attendees have participated in programs such as the Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps, the NSF Navigating Home Fellowship, marine research initiatives, natural resource management programs, legal fellowships, and various sustainability training programs.

The UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant has become a hub for environmental education, research, and workforce development on Guam, partnering with government agencies, community organizations, and educational institutions to address critical challenges including climate resilience, marine conservation, renewable energy, and sustainable resource management.

Phillip Cruz, UOG CIS & Sea Grant program leader and one of the longest tenured team members, was happy to see the lasting impact the center has had on the community and was grateful for all the support over the years. 

“I always enjoy catching up with former CIS & Sea Grant team members and learning about what they’re doing today,” said Cruz. “I’m most thrilled when I hear about how much of an influence their time on our team has on their current careers. We have done so much work in the conservation and island sustainability space collectively, and we have more work to do. It would not be possible without the contributions of everyone here.”

The event also helped to showcase the work of the center as the road to the 17th University of Guam Conference on Island Sustainability begins with the signature event slated to return to the Hyatt Regency Guam Grand Ballroom from April 20 to 24, 2026.