On Saturday, September 20, 2025, graduate students from the 7th cohort of the MS in Operational Oceanography (MOO) program participated in two simultaneous outreach events, reflecting the program’s commitment to public engagement and science communication. One group attended the Rutgers University Marine Field Station (RUMFS) and JCNEER 2025 Open House in southern New Jersey, while another contributed to International Coastal Cleanup Day at Brooklyn Bridge Park in New York City.
At RUMFS, three students presented a Slocum glider, one of the program’s most recognizable and widely used ocean observing instruments. They spoke with attendees about the capabilities of the glider and its role in advancing coastal and oceanographic research. Conversations also highlighted the mission of the MOO program, the broader Graduate Program in Oceanography, and the Department of Marine and Coastal Sciences at Rutgers University. The open house welcomed several hundred visitors, including families, educators, and community members, many of whom expressed strong interest in the tools and research that help scientists monitor and protect New Jersey’s coastal ecosystems.
At Brooklyn Bridge Park, two additional students joined hundreds of volunteers participating in International Coastal Cleanup Day. On behalf of our partner RanMarine Technology, they piloted a WasteShark autonomous surface vehicle to collect floating debris from the East River. The demonstration not only showcased the effectiveness of autonomous surface vehicles in addressing marine debris but also provided an opportunity for meaningful conversations with the public about broader challenges facing urban waterways, the importance of ocean observing systems, and emerging technologies that support sustainability.
Together, these two events demonstrated the reach of Rutgers’ ocean science programs, connecting with diverse audiences across both regional and urban settings. They also underscored the central role that graduate students play in advancing marine science education, community engagement, and the translation of cutting-edge research into solutions for real-world environmental challenges.
