November 28, 2022

Washington Sea Grant (WSG) is thrilled to be recognized by the 2022 Sea Grant Excellence in Communication Awards in the online/social media category around the program’s 50th anniversary celebration. This communications campaign included many components, such as a story map, a lunch and learn series, a commemorative video, and a social media campaign that highlighted historical photos. The initiative culminated an interactive virtual event, which was held in late 2021.

As one of the earliest Sea Grant programs in the United States providing marine research, outreach and education, WSG has developed a body of work that has shaped the state’s marine environment and maritime economy. The objective of the 50th anniversary communications campaign was to provide context for reflecting back and allow current stakeholders to learn about ways in which WSG and partners might best contribute to the marine environment and maritime economies of the future.

The campaign integrated DEI values with a new “Emerging Artist” program, which fosters collaboration with an emerging local artist of color. For the inaugural BIPOC artist, we selected Vietnamese-American artist Nam Sui, featuring his fish rubbing of a rockfish on a commemorative gift bag. The artist was also honored at the virtual Celebration event.

Explore the campaign:

• 50 Years of Washington Sea Grant story map
• Podcast interview with WSG Director Russell Callender
• Commemorative video
• Blog series featuring staff profiles and historical photos
• Recording of virtual celebration event

###

Washington Sea Grant, based at the University of Washington, helps people and marine life thrive through research, technical expertise and education supporting the responsible use and conservation of coastal ecosystems. The National Sea Grant College Program is part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce.
wsg.uw.edu

Join the conversation: @WASeaGrant and Facebook.com/WaSeaGrant.