Seven students graduated from the University of the Virgin Islands Masters of Marine and Environmental Studies program this month despite significant challenges presented by COVID-19. These students are no strangers to adversity and in fact three of the graduates are part of what are lovingly call the “Hurricohort”, those who began their program just before hurricanes Irma and Maria.

Theirs was not an easy journey. Success was not guaranteed…it was won by doing the next hard thing each day. So join us as we celebrate them, these seven, who deserve to take a bow and relish what they have achieved.

Youth Ocean Explorers from St. Thomas had the rare opportunity to participate in the National Park Service's Sea Turtle Monitoring Program on Buck Island Reef National Monument in St. Croix.

Since Hurricanes Irma and Maria swept through the Caribbean in September 2017, marine researchers at the University of the Virgin Islands noticed a dramatic decrease in the number of green sea turtles in Brewers Bay, St. Thomas, and, a possible decrease in hawksbill sea turtles as well.  Both of these species are protected as their populations have been greatly impacted by over-harvesting of eggs and adults over the past centuries. What does this mean for local populations of these fascinating creatures?

All sea turtles species found in the US Virgin Islands are protected under the Endangered Species Act. It is illegal to touch or harass them at any time. This encounter was possible under an exclusive research NMFS permit. What a wonderful and unique opportunity for the community to get up close and personal.