Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps assists with sea turtle monitoring program

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Members of the Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps recently spent a week with the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant Sea Turtle Monitoring Program to learn about sea turtle monitoring and conservation. This photo was taken in connection with research authorized under the ESA Recovery Permit ES42195A-3 and funded by the Department of Navy on behalf of Joint Region Marianas (Sea turtle monitoring, protection, and educational outreach on AAFB; cooperative agreement #N40192-23-2-8000).

The Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps is a six month workforce development program supported by Kupu in Hawai’i. During the program, members are trained and hosted by agencies and programs with the intent to develop skills that can help them thrive in the emerging green economy. This photo was taken in connection with research authorized under the ESA Recovery Permit ES42195A-3 and funded by the Department of Navy on behalf of Joint Region Marianas (Sea turtle monitoring, protection, and educational outreach on AAFB; cooperative agreement #N40192-23-2-8000).

The Guam Green Growth (G3) Conservation Corps spent a week in the field immersed in vital conservation work alongside the University of Guam (UOG) Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant’s dedicated Sea Turtle Monitoring team. Corps members received invaluable hands-on training and education focused on the preservation of Guam’s native sea turtle populations and their crucial nesting habitats.

Throughout the week, the G3 Conservation Corps actively participated in various aspects of the sea turtle monitoring program. This included spotting turtle tracks, marking nests, conducting nest inventories, and learning how the project protects endangered green turtles.

In addition to nesting surveys, G3CC also cleared survey trails and removed marine debris from nesting beaches, aiding in long-term monitoring efforts and the safety of both nesting turtles and hatchlings.

“This partnership with the G3 Conservation Corps is incredibly valuable,” said Addie Ferguson, biologist for the Sea Turtle Monitoring Project. “Their enthusiasm and willingness to learn, coupled with the manpower they provide, significantly boosts our conservation efforts. It’s inspiring to see young individuals so dedicated to protecting Guam’s haggan.”

This collaborative effort underscores the importance of community involvement in safeguarding Guam’s unique biodiversity.

By providing hands-on training and fostering a deeper understanding of local ecosystems, the partnership between the G3 Conservation Corps and the UOG Sea Grant program is cultivating the next generation of environmental stewards dedicated to the long-term health of Guam’s natural environment.

The data collected during this week will contribute to the ongoing efforts to monitor and protect Guam’s precious sea turtle populations for years to come.

This work was done in connection with research authorized under the ESA Recovery Permit ES42195A-3 and funded by the Department of Navy on behalf of Joint Region Marianas (Sea turtle monitoring, protection, and educational outreach on AAFB; cooperative agreement #N40192-23-2-8000).

June 9, 2025July 1, 2025

Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps learns Food Security & Food Sovereignty at GSC Food Resiliency Hub

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WhatsApp Image 2025-06-11 at 12.42.47 PM

The Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps (G3CC) rolled up its sleeves and partnered with Guåhån Sustainable Cultures (GSC) during the week of June 9, for a deep dive into food sustainability and agriculture.

At the GSC Food Resiliency Hub in Yona, the G3CC learned about food security and food sovereignty, two pillars of sustainable food practices, the former of which ensures access to affordable and healthy food options to all people while the latter is a system wherein the people who grow, share, and eat farmed foods also govern its production and distribution.

The G3CC also helped to prepare garden beds for medicinal plants used in CHamoru culture alongside students enrolled in GSC’s summer program.

The fifth cohort of the G3CC rounded out the week at the Hub by tending to the coffee and fruit gardens on the property. They also assisted in harvesting pandanus leaves.

The group learned the proper and safest ways to plant papaya and pineapple, and helped remove Antigonon leptopus, an invasive species of perennial vine more commonly known as the “chain-of-love” vine.

With this week in books, the G3CC members now feel even more prepared for the emerging green economy with the skills shared by GSC and partners in sustainability like them.

According to members, it is through collaborations like this that the seeds of a more sustainable future for all people are grown.

June 6, 2025June 9, 2025

Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps sprouts new skills during Farm to Table workshop at UOG Triton Farm

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The Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps (G3CC) continues to collect seeds of wisdom this week at the UOG Triton Farm in Dededo.

The week of June 2, 2025 was a busy one for members of the G3CC’s fifth cohort who learned about the Farm to Table process under the guidance of UOG Triton Farm Manager, Jessica Nangauta,

While at the UOG Triton Farm, the G3CC learned different horticulture skills like air layering, a type of cloning technique used to propagate plants by encouraging root growth on branches while still attached to the parent plant.

The team also learned how to harvest, husk and process coconuts, resulting in the G3CC extracting seventy-four ounces of fresh coconut oil from about eighty coconuts.

Additionally, the G3CC learned how to maintain an aquaponics garden which included the removal of Rhinella marina, an invasive amphibian species in Guam commonly known as the cane toad.

To close out the week and celebrate the team effort between G3CC and UOG Triton Farm team, both groups gathered to prepare fresh produce and livestock for a special Farm to Table lunch experience, a culmination of lessons and hand-on experience shared throughout the week.

January 3, 2025January 3, 2025

Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps now recruiting for fifth season

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The Guam Green Growth Connservation Corps is recruiting members for its upcoming fifth season. Members will be involved with various sustainability linked projects including work with invasive species and other wildlife.

Members of the Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps will participate in weekly beautification activities throughout all villages on Guam. Activities include cleanups at roadsides and beaches, paintings and more.

Member of G3CC season 4, Jem Miller, inspects a tree in hunt of the invasive brown tree snake. The corps participates in various activities including work with partner agencies like the Guam Department of Agriculture.

The University of Guam’s Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps (G3CC) is now accepting applications for its upcoming fifth season. This five-month program provides twelve adults with valuable hands-on experience in environmental conservation and sustainability to develop the workforce for the emerging green economy.

Participants in the G3CC will engage in a variety of projects focused on environmental protection, restoration and sustainability, including:

Agriculture and Aquaculture
Circular Economy and Zero Waste
Ocean Conservation
Invasive Species Management
Energy Conservation and Renewable Energy
Watershed Restoration and Reforestation
Island Beautification

In addition to gaining valuable work experience, G3CC participants will receive professional development training, including leadership, teamwork skills, career readiness training, first aid certification and more.

Austin Shelton, Ph.D., the director of the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, who facilitate the G3CC program, says the program’s success has enabled its continuation and expansion.

“This will be our fifth cohort of participants with this original conservation corps, but since we launched, the impact multiplies with many graduates now employed with different agencies, groups and businesses in the green economy,” said Shelton. “The program expanded to include additional opportunities in the G3 Local2030 Islands Network Conservation Corps, the G3 Art Corps, and the G3 Kupu Corps.”

According to Shelton, nearly 100 people have graduated from one of the G3 Conservation Corps since the program’s launch in 2021.

“This program is perfect for people who are looking to make a change in their career path, for those who are ready o rededicate themselves to sustainability on Guam, or those who have always had a connection to sustainability and want to grow those skills,” added Shelton.

The selected applicants will receive continuing education credits from the UOG Global Learning and Engagement Office (GLE) and a stipend of $1300.00 every two-weeks. Two supervisors will also be selected from the applicants, who will receive $1500.00 bi-weekly.

Applications are being accepted until January 13, 2025 via the official program website at www.guamgreengrowth.org. Information about eligibility and more can be found on the website as well.

July 29, 2024December 31, 2024

UOG celebrates the graduation of the fourth Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps

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The Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps celebrated the graduation of fourth cohort at a ceremony held at Adelup. The five-month long workforce development program is geared towards developing a skilled workforce for Guam's emerging green economy. Photo courtesy of University of Guam

The University of Guam (UOG) and the Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps (G3CC) celebrated a milestone this month with the graduation of its fourth cohort. The ceremony, held at the Governor’s Complex in Adelup, honored the accomplishments of twelve individuals from all walks of life who dedicated five months to hands-on conservation and sustainability projects across the island.

According to Austin Shelton, Ph.D., the director of the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, the G3CC is a collaborative initiative between the University of Guam and various community partners, aimed at developing a skilled workforce for Guam’s emerging green economy.

Participants in the program receive comprehensive training in environmental science, conservation practices, leadership development and earn continuing education credits from UOG.

This year’s cohort undertook a range of projects in focus areas including invasive species removal with the Department of Agriculture, aquaculture with UOG Sea Grant, agriculture with UOG Triton Farms, watershed restoration with the Guam Restoration of Watersheds initiative, limestone forest work and plant identification with Tåno, Tåsi, Todu, and more.

“This is the start of this group’s legacy for the green economy in Guam,” said Shelton. “Through the program they have made major impacts like collecting 13,483 lbs. of trash and helping to harvest 135 lbs. of locally grown produce. It is a great way to begin their work in conservation for our island.”

Other impacts of the cohort included:

Collecting and recycling over 31,000 aluminum cans.
Preparing 200 feet of erosion control devices.
Planting over 340 seeds and seedlings.
Conducting 19 village roadside cleanups or beautification projects.
Maintaining nearly 4 miles of firebreaks.

“This program has affirmed our purpose in this world, which is to continue pursuing opportunities for the long-term environmental prosperity of the islands,” said G3CC graduate Thomås Benavente. “The conservation corps has mentally, physically and emotionally prepared us for what’s to come within our green economy.”

The graduation ceremony featured remarks from Lt. Gov. Joshua Tenorio, Vice-Speaker of the Guam Legislature Tina Muña Barnes, Senator Joe San Agustin and acting UOG Senior Vice PresidentMarlena Pangelinan, who encouraged the group to continue their work in conservation and sustainability.

“The University of Guam is proud to partner with this corps in cultivating the next generation of stewards for our island,” said Pangelinan. “As you graduate today, I encourage you to continue to be ambassadors for our island. Share your knowledge, inspire others, and work together to create a sustainable future for Guam.”

July 24, 2024December 31, 2024

G3CC Recycles Its Way to a Greener Liberation Day

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Rico Lizama and Tomås Benavente from the Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps collect aluminum cans from mesh wire bins placed throughout the 80th Liberation Day Parade.

The University of Guam’s Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps (G3CC) brought environmental responsibility to the forefront of the 80th Guam Liberation Day Parade. This year’s festivities weren’t just a celebration of freedom, but also a promotion of a sustainable future through a territory-wide recycling effort.

G3CC members stationed themselves along the parade route, enthusiastically collecting recyclables from the crowds. This initiative tackled a major challenge for Guam: managing waste generated during large events. To address this, the Corps focused on collecting aluminum cans, a readily recyclable material.

But the G3CC’s efforts went beyond collection. To bolster recycling and provide an extra perk for participants, the Corps distributed free can cages to all registered parade participants. These cages not only made can collection easier but also served as a reminder of the importance of recycling.

Phillip Cruz, coordinator for the Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps, highlighted the initiative’s goals. “Our goal this Liberation Day was to significantly increase recycling and divert cans from landfills,” Cruz said. The collected cans were donated to schools in partnership with IRecycle, a program that allows schools to raise funds by cashing in on recycled aluminum.

The G3CC collected an estimated total of over 7,500 cans throughout the 80th Guam Liberation Day celebration, successfully diverting them from the landfill

The project’s impact extended beyond immediate environmental benefits, according to Dr. Austin Shelton, director of UOG’s Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant. “This initiative combined environmental responsibility with community outreach and education,” Shelton said. “By incorporating recycling into the festivities, we weren’t only cleaning up after the parade, but also promoting a culture of sustainability on our island.”

The G3CC’s Liberation Day recycling effort served as a shining example of how Guam could celebrate its heritage while safeguarding its beautiful environment for future generations.

March 11, 2024December 31, 2024

UOG’s 4th conservation corps boasts diverse lineup

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Members of the 4th cohort of the Guam Green Growth (G3) Conservation Corps hold signs representing the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals. They are joined by UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant Director Austin Shelton, Ph.D., Lt. Gov. Joshua Tenorio, Senior Vice President and Provost Sharleen Santos Bamba, and UOG Global Learning and Engagement Director Carlos Taitano, MBA.

Members of the 4th cohort of the Guam Green Growth (G3) Conservation Corps pledge their commitment to protect the environment and promote sustainability at an event launching the new members on Tuesday, February 27th, at the UOG Global Learning and Engagement Building.

Guam Green Growth (G3) Conservation Corps member Hannah Perez, with a background in human resources, shares her motivation for joining the program at an event launching the new members on Tuesday, February 27th, at the UOG Global Learning and Engagement Building.

Guam Green Growth (G3) Conservation Corps member Tristan Quintanilla, a policy analyst for four years, shares his motivation for joining the program at an event launching the new members on Tuesday, February 27th, at the UOG Global Learning and Engagement Building.

What do an accountant, former on-air personality, architect, and a human resources professional have in common?

They are passionate about the future of our island and entered the newest cohort of the Guam Green Growth (G3) Conservation Corps, a workforce development program by the University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, and the G3 initiative.

Now on its 4^th cycle, the program introduced its 12 new members on Tuesday, February 27, at the UOG Global Learning and Engagement Building.

Addressing the new G3 Conservation Corps, UOG Senior Vice President and Provost Sharleen Santos Bamba, Ph.D. said, “You represent the next generation of environmental leaders. Your enthusiasm commitment, and thirst for knowledge inspire us all. The next five months will be a journey of discovery, hard work, and profound personal growth.”

Most members of the 4th cohort come from industries outside the environmental and conservation sectors. Some of them have already established careers in their respective fields but are interested in exploring opportunities within the emerging green economy. 

The members of the new G3 Conservation Corps are:

Nate Aguon (Barrigada)
Thomas Benavente (CNMI, Tamuning)
Makeo Blas (Mangilao)
Telel Blesam (Palau)
Jaevynn Cruz (Talo’fo’fo)
Rico Lizama (Yona)
Beato Manglona (Tamuning)
Jem Miller (Dededo)
Hannah Perez (Barrigada)
Tristan Quintanilla (Hågat)
Emma Sánchez (Dededo)
Loren Villanueva (Yigo)

At the event, the G3 Conservation Corps members shared their motivation for joining the program.

Quintanilla, a policy analyst for four years, stated, “I believe that this is a way to merge the past and the future. As a researcher, I would often look at problems, and search for solutions. However, I noticed a significant difference between learning about things and being able to practice them. So, I am looking forward to that.”

Perez, with a background in human resources, expressed, “Ever since I was younger, I’ve been passionate about addressing climate change because I know it directly impacts our island. Rising sea levels, and trash in the ocean, you see that every day.”

UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant Director Austin Shelton, Ph.D., told the new G3 Conservation Corps that diverse opportunities are available to graduates of the program. 

“Whether your interest lies in aquaculture, agriculture, or even nighttime efforts to catch brown tree snakes, there are immediate job openings in these areas. Many opportunities are available right here at the Research Corporation of the University of Guam, as well as through our various local and federal agency partners,” he said.

Shelton added that most of the members of the previous cohorts had achieved success in pursuing their aspirations after the program. “Over 70 percent of our graduates have transitioned into green jobs or have chosen further training, all closely aligned with the green economy.”

Throughout the five-month program, the G3 Conservation Corps will undergo training and gain exposure in various sustainability-related areas, including agriculture and aquaculture, island beautification, invasive species removal, reforestation, circular economy practices, recycling, and renewable energy. 

They will also have the opportunity to engage with diverse environmental organizations and initiatives on Guam and the rest of the Micronesia region.  

After completing the program, the G3 Conservation Corps will earn up to 80 continuing education units (CEUs) from UOG Global Learning and Engagement.

The first G3 Conservation Corps program  was launched in 2021.

WHAT IS G3?  

The UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant facilitates the  Guam Green Growth, or G3 initiative, in cooperation with the Office of the Governor of Guam and the G3 Working Group, whose members represent all sectors of society. With the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals and G3 Action Framework as a guide, G3 develops tangible solutions to sustainability challenges and contributes to a green economy for the island region.

December 20, 2023December 31, 2024

Guam Green Growth looking for 4th Conservation Corps

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Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps sets up signs just before participating in an island beautification event in the village of Barigada

Members of the Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps (G3CC) working together at an island beautification event

Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps (G3CC) Season 3 member, Jace Blas, helps in restoration efforts at M.U. Lujan Elementary School in the village of Yoña

Applications are now open for the fourth cohort of the Guam Green Growth (G3) initiative’s Conservation Corps program (G3CC).

This five-month workforce development program is designed to prepare individuals for careers in the growing green economy while providing valuable hands-on experience in environmental conservation and sustainability initiatives.

“We are excited to begin the fourth season of the G3 Conservation Corps,” said Austin J. Shelton, PhD, Director of the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant. “This program is preparing our people to enter the growing field of green jobs and help create a sustainable future for our island at the same time.”

The G3CC program immerses participants in a comprehensive training curriculum that encompasses a wide range of sustainability topics, including: agriculture and aquaculture, island beautification, invasive species removal, reforestation, circular economy, recycling, and renewable energy.

Through a blend of classroom instruction, hands-on field experiences, and mentorship opportunities, the program empowers participants to:

Develop the skills and knowledge needed to secure employment in the green economy.
Contribute to Guam’s sustainability goals through active engagement in environmental conservation projects.
Gain a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness between human activities and the environment.
Promote environmental stewardship and sustainability within their communities.

In addition to gaining valuable skills and experience, G3CC participants also have the opportunity to earn up to 80 continuing education units (CEUs) from the UOG Global Learning and Engagement program and receive a stipend for their participation. They will also gain exposure to diverse environmental organizations and initiatives on Guam and the region.

The G3 initiative spearheads the G3CC program in collaboration with the Office of the Governor of Guam and the G3 Working Group, which comprises representatives from all sectors of society. Guided by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the G3 Action Framework, G3 formulates tangible solutions to sustainability challenges and fosters a green economy for the island region.

Apply online at http://guamgreengrowth.org. Applications close on January 19, 2024.

November 30, 2023December 31, 2024

Shelton: Peace and sovereignty go hand in hand with island sustainability

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Austin Shelton, PhD, Director of the University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, delivers his insights on sustainability and peace during his keynote address at the 'Fanhita: Security, Sovereignty, and the Path to Peace' conference hosted by the Commission on Decolonization (Photo by UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant).

Guam’s path to sovereignty and peace includes producing more locally, trading better, and circularizing the economy, according to Austin Shelton, PhD, Director of the University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant.

Shelton mentioned these points in his keynote address at the “Fanhita: Security, Sovereignty, and the Path to Peace” conference recently organized by the Commission on Decolonization.

He highlighted the island’s significant reliance on imported goods and the urgent need to transition towards a more sustainable and self-reliant future.

Guam currently imports over 90% of its food and goods, a situation that poses immense challenges in terms of food security, economic stability, and environmental sustainability. Shelton emphasized that the recent Typhoon Mawar served as a stark reminder of the island’s vulnerability due to its overdependence on external resources.

“When typhoon Mawar hit the island a few months ago, it was a good chance to remember how we used to do all of these things and prepare,” he said.

To address these challenges and foster a more resilient and sustainable Guam, Shelton outlined a three-pronged approach: producing more locally, trading better, and circularizing.

Enhancing local food production is crucial for Guam’s food security and economic independence. Shelton highlighted several initiatives undertaken by the Guam Green Growth (G3) Initiative to promote local agriculture and aquaculture, including the partnership with Guahan Sustainable Culture for the community gardens.

Shelton also mentioned promoting aquaculture and aquaponics systems to increase local seafood production and supporting local farmers through education, technical assistance, and market access opportunities.

Guam’s strategic location can be leveraged to enhance trade partnerships and negotiate better trade deals, according to Shelton. He cited Singapore as an example of an island nation that has successfully diversified its trade network, ensuring a stable supply of essential goods.

He also emphasized the importance of political cohesion and collective bargaining power to negotiate fairer trade agreements that benefit Guam’s economy and food security. “We need solidarity and determination to fight for our collective best interests as an island,” he said.

Adopting circular economy principles can significantly reduce Guam’s reliance on imported goods and minimize waste generation. Shelton advocated for initiatives that promote recycling, waste reduction programs, and encourage the reuse and repurposing of materials. He also supported the development of local industries that utilize recycled materials.

Shelton said the G3 Conservation Corps plays a pivotal role in preparing the island’s workforce for the emerging green economy. Through hands-on training and education, the program equips participants with the skills and knowledge to pursue careers in agriculture, aquaculture, recycling, and circular economy sectors.

He said the G3 Conservation Corps has made significant contributions to Guam’s sustainability efforts, including aiding in typhoon recovery efforts after Typhoon Mawar and disaster preparedness initiatives, among others.

September 14, 2023December 31, 2024

UOG and University of Hawai’i Sea Grant partner to expand Green Growth Initiative

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The University of Guam announced the expansion of the Green Growth Initiative across the Western Pacific. A $1.4 million grant from the U.S. Department of State via the NOAA National Sea Grant College Program will strengthen the partnership between the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant and the University ofHawai’iSea Grant College Program.

UOG made the announcement on Tuesday, September 12, during the National Sea Grant Association meeting at the Hyatt Regency Guam. This marked the first time that Guam hosted the biannual meeting, bringing together over 70 directors and representatives from nearly all of the 34 Sea Grant programs nationwide.

The new grant will support efforts to expand the scope of Local2030 Islands Network and UOG’s Guam Green Growth Initiative to the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of Palau, and the Republic of the Marshall Islands.

During the press conference, Austin Shelton, Director of the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, emphasized the potential impact of this collaboration, stating, “This seed funding will enable our island neighbors to hire their own Green Growth coordinators. We aspire to collectively strengthen our capacity across Micronesia and the Pacific to advance sustainable development.”

Shelton further highlighted the value of knowledge exchange with regional partners, saying, “Our island neighbors are at the forefront of sustainability, and this partnership offers an exciting opportunity to expand capacity and knowledge exchange throughout the Pacific.”

Randall V. Wiegand, Acting President of UOG, acknowledged the transformative potential of this collaboration, stating, “This partnership expands the ways we, as a region, can support each other in advancing the green economy and addressing climate change.”

Galvin S. Deleon Guerrero, President of the Northern Marianas College and one of the program partners, said the partnerships “are essential to our collective efforts to improve the world.”

“Our aspirations are as expansive as the Pacific our ancestors traversed, and as profound as the Marianas Trench,” Deleon Guerrero added.

Darren Lerner, President of the Sea Grant Association and Director of the UH Sea Grant College Program, commended the long-standing partnership between the two universities. He praised UOG for its commitment to excellence, emphasizing the strength derived from the dedication of every program to this shared goal.

Jonathan Pennock, Director of the National Sea Grant College Program, also recognized the impressive growth of the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant program in a relatively short period of time. He emphasized its strong connection to the community and praised the program for effectively carrying forward the mission of Sea Grant.

In 2022, UOG achieved Sea Grant Institutional Status following a unanimous recommendation from the National Sea Grant Advisory Board and official designation from National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) senior leadership.

The National Sea Grant College Program is a collaborative effort between universities and NOAA. It is dedicated to enhancing the practical utilization and conservation of coastal and marine resources, with a vision of fostering a sustainable economy and environment. The Sea Grant network comprises more than 3,000 scientists, engineers, public outreach experts, educators, and students.