FROM THE TOS PRESIDENT

Paula Bontempi

Dear TOS Members,

Recently I had the privilege to attend a symposium at an oceanographic institution where a very brave and wonderful group of students led a panel discussion on being an ocean, Earth, atmospheric science student at this moment. The students provided their hopes and concerns at a time when they entered graduate studies within or soon following the global novel coronavirus pandemic, an unprecedented moment in history. Many are finishing at a time of what they see as chaos in the world. I have heard from students within my own institution and beyond that they are deeply concerned about Earth’s climate crisis, would like to engage with the public on behalf of science, wish to push politics out of science, and truly question their employment prospects. Many students express a deep sense that they lack control about what happens next in their lives or in the world. In response to the students’ honesty at this symposium was a rousing chorus of cheers from the early, mid, and senior career attendees in the room, suggesting both an appreciation for their willingness to speak up and a resonance of the ideas across generations. But what happens next?

We must, as a community, listen to our colleagues, validate their feelings, and support each other. While some of you may be asking what this has to do with The Oceanography Society, emotional validation is a key skill of communication. This is something on which we all should work, especially at a time when the role of science in society is under a direct challenge. If we truly want to support our future (and current) scientific leaders, then we must practice our listening and communication. An approach of “tough love” impacts human compassion and boosts anxiety and depression. In just a short search online I found that knee jerk responses, many of which I have uttered myself, can overshadow and dismiss someone’s feelings:

• “It could be worse”
• “Don’t think too much about it”
• “Just move on”
• “Let’s talk about something else”
• “Try to put this in perspective”
• “You’re taking X too seriously”

We all have a role to play in what happens next in science, technology, and education. The world and the public need data and science. Don’t underestimate your role as an agent of change. So many members have reached out about how an international organization, such as The Oceanography Society, can continue to lead a very dedicated community as we implement our strategic plan with focus and optimism. Here’s how:

1. Give a person your full attention
2. Let them talk
3. Ask questions
4. Acknowledge, reflect, and accept

Work to make sure you understand and hear their words. We don’t have to agree, but we do have to listen without prejudice.

I welcome your feedback on how TOS might support our membership better. Thank you to all of you for making the Society an incredible and transformative institution. Our continued effort to reach our future and current leaders, build communities, and be effective ambassadors to science and its value to the world could not be more important.

Sincerely,

Paula

The Oceanography Society has updated the Oceanography advertising page to reflect the journal’s recent transition to an electronic-only publication and our ability to embed videos in the flipbook version of each issue. Advertisement rates have been reduced for traditional ads, with slightly higher fees for video ads.

STUDENT HIGHLIGHT

Hop on Instragram and meet Moronke Harris, elected Student Councilor on the TOS Council.