Wedding & Charity: Donate to Support Science in Our Honor

A marine scientist is using a personal milestone – an upcoming marriage with Eileen – as an opportunity to highlight and support organizations dedicated to scientific advancement and conservation. The individual, whose field of expertise is shark science, is encouraging friends, family, and colleagues to consider donations to four specific charities in lieu of traditional wedding gifts.

Supporting Scientific Communities

Minorities in Shark Sciences (MISS)

One organization highlighted is Minorities in Shark Sciences (MISS), which focuses on increasing inclusivity within the field of shark research. The scientist is a “Friend of MISS” and has actively mentored members of the organization, recognizing its impact through professional development, networking opportunities, and scholarships. Donations to MISS can be dedicated in honor of the couple’s marriage through a specific process on their donation page.

Did You Know? MISS provides professional development, networking, and scholarships to increase inclusivity in shark sciences.

The American Elasmobranch Society (AES)

The American Elasmobranch Society (AES), the world’s oldest and largest professional society for shark research, is another beneficiary. The scientist is currently serving a second term on the AES Board of Directors. Donations to the AES student travel scholarship fund aim to enable greater participation in the organization’s annual conference, providing networking and job opportunities for early-career researchers.

Shark Advocates International (SAI)

Shark Advocates International (SAI) is presented as a highly impactful ocean conservation organization. Its President, Sonja Fordham, is described as a key figure in numerous shark conservation successes over the past two decades, regularly representing sharks at international meetings. Given SAI’s small operational size – a one-person team – donations are expected to have a significant effect. Donations can be made through a dedicated link, though specifying the donation is in honor of the couple requires direct coordination with Fordham.

Expert Insight: Focusing donations on smaller, highly effective organizations like SAI can maximize impact, as a greater proportion of funds directly supports conservation efforts rather than administrative overhead.

The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS)

The scientist also supports the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS), citing the organization’s role in defending science against perceived attacks. The individual volunteers with UCS and participated in coordinating a letter signed by nearly 100,000 scientists, which reportedly influenced Congressional action. A dedicated donation link has been created for supporters wishing to contribute in honor of the marriage.

Looking Ahead

It is possible that this public call for charitable donations will inspire others to link personal events with philanthropic giving. The success of this approach could lead to increased visibility and funding for the highlighted organizations. Further, the scientist’s continued involvement with MISS and AES suggests a long-term commitment to fostering diversity and supporting the next generation of researchers. SAI and UCS may see increased support as well, depending on the reach of this initiative and broader public interest in their respective causes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What organizations are being supported?

The organizations being supported are Minorities in Shark Sciences (MISS), Shark Advocates International (SAI), The American Elasmobranch Society (AES), and The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS).

How can donations be made in honor of the couple?

Each organization has a specific donation process, some with dedicated links and others requiring a note indicating the donation is in honor of David and Eileen’s marriage.

What is the scientist’s connection to these organizations?

The scientist is a “Friend of MISS,” a mentor to MISS members, currently on the Board of Directors of AES, recognizes SAI President Sonja Fordham as a mentor, and volunteers with UCS.

How do you typically celebrate milestones and give back to causes you believe in?