Women in Coastal Science Speaker Series

Meet the women shaping the future of our coasts.

From rescuing marine life to tackling climate challenges, these experts are making waves in conservation, research, and coastal resilience. Join us for this free, monthly speaker series and gain insight into their groundbreaking work.

Save your spot and register today!

Upcoming: April 25, 2025 at 10-11 AM

Exploring. Protecting. Inspiring.

Why join us at the Speaker Series?

The Women in Coastal Science Speaker Series is a free, award-winning program that brings together leading female scientists, conservationists, and researchers to share their expertise. Held monthly, this engaging series covers topics ranging from marine mammal rescue to habitat restoration, giving attendees an inside look at the critical efforts shaping our Gulf shores.

What to Expect:

In-depth discussions with top women in marine science
Insights on conservation, sustainability, and climate resilience
Interactive Q&A sessions with industry experts
A welcoming and inclusive learning environment

📍 Location: East Beach

📅 Dates: Fourth Friday of each month, March–October (Plus two special Saturday sessions on Memorial Day Weekend & World Ocean Day!)

🎟️ Admission: Free and open to the public

First Name:

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Which date(s) are you interested in attending?

Friday, March 28

Friday, April 25

Friday, May 23

Saturday, June 7 World Ocean Day

Friday, July 25

Friday, August 22

Friday, September 26

Friday, October 24

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A political scientist by training, her research explores disaster resilience from a sociopolitical perspective. Her book Local Disaster Resilience: Administrative and Political Perspectives (Routledge, 2013) analyzed disaster resilience related to Hurricane Katrina and the Deepwater Horizon oil spill among U.S. Gulf Coast counties. Much of her research examines public perceptions related to natural hazard governance, including issues of climate change, hazard mitigation, and pollution. Some of her most recent research explores the social equity issues that emerge with natural hazard mitigation. She also has a robust line of research that considers how social identities of race, ethnicity, partisanship, and generation influence public attitudes towards the environment and disasters. Ross is a faculty fellow with the Institute for a Disaster Resilient Texas and serves as the coordinator of the Marine and Coastal Management and Sciences doctoral program at TAMUG. She teaches graduate courses in environmental management, environmental conflict resolution, and research methods in coastal resources.

Women in Coastal Science is excited to welcome Virginia Rose, Founder and Chair Emeritus of Birdability, as the Season 4 opener for the program.

At 14 years old, Virginia’s life changed when a horseback riding accident resulted in a spinal cord injury. A wheelchair user ever since, she discovered birding 17 years ago and found a deep connection to nature, empowerment, and community. As a retired high school English teacher, she remains passionate about helping others experience that same joy, particularly those with mobility challenges. Her commitment to accessibility in the outdoors led to the creation of Birdability, a movement dedicated to breaking down barriers and ensuring everyone has the opportunity to enjoy nature.

Virginia’s work is driven by the belief that "every single person can see themselves as a decision maker, a changemaker, as someone who can take a passion and turn it into a movement." Her advocacy has reached far beyond individual birding experiences, inspiring a nationwide conversation about accessibility and inclusion in outdoor spaces.

Join us in the Community Room at Dellanera RV Park to hear Virginia share her inspiring journey, insights on accessibility, and how small actions can create lasting change.

Women in Coastal Science | Birding Without Barriers with Virginia Rose

Women in Coastal Science

Register for This Year’s Series

Don’t miss the opportunity to hear from leading experts in coastal science. Whether you're a student, educator, or simply passionate about the environment, this series is designed to inspire and educate.

Past Events & Highlights

Curious about what to expect? Check out highlights from past Women in Coastal Science events, including recorded talks, guest speaker insights, and key takeaways.

Past speakers have included experts such as:

Dr. Vanessa Mintzer: Conservation ecologist with a Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Ecology, specializing in the ecology and conservation of threatened species.
Dr. Jamie Steichen: Instructional Assistant Professor in Marine Biology with a Ph.D. in Oceanography, focusing on active learning in marine science education.
Dr. Kristin Brzeski: Conservation geneticist at Michigan Technological University, using genomic techniques to study wild canids and protect endangered wildlife.

Be part of the conversation. Be part of the change.

Join the Movement

Women in Coastal Science isn’t just an event—it’s a community. Follow us for updates, speaker announcements, and behind-the-scenes content.