1.  Tell Your Own Story Online

Workshop Lead: Sarah Curry

Overview: Use your phone to tell your own story. With social media being the ever present way to communicate your message and/or market your business, it’s easier than ever to reach new audiences. But it can be hard. In this workshop you will learn how to think about visually communicating your message in a way that feels right for you and your business. Bring your phone and a few ideas on some basic stories you might like to share with the world. For example, who you are, the motivation for your work, the coolest thing you’re working on, or an overview of the conference you’re attending. 

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2.  Science Policy Careers

Workshop Lead: Dr. Marcy Cockrell

Overview: Have you ever wondered what a career in science policy entails, or what science policy even is? Join this workshop to hear from an exciting and distinguished panel of professional women working at the intersection of aquaculture and science policy. In this moderated “fireside chat” style panel, workshop participants will learn more about what science policy is, what an educational and career path in science policy might entail, and discuss how science policy can be used to strengthen diversity, equity, and inclusion in science more generally. There will be ample time reserved for Q&A with the panelists. 

 

3.  Effectively Communicating Ocean and Climate Change

Workshop Lead: Blair Morrison and Dana Henderson

Overview: Trying to communicate climate change, but people just don’t seem to respond to your facts and science? Come learn how to be a more effective and compelling climate communicator! Join us as we introduce the National Network for Ocean and Climate Change Interpretation (NNOCCI), a collective of over 500 climate communicators, and evidence-backed strategies for talking about climate change. In this workshop, attendees will learn how specific values and metaphors make audiences more receptive to ocean/climate change messaging and how we can change the national discourse to be more positive, civic-minded, and solutions-focused. We will also discuss  (and practice!) strategic framing of sustainable aquaculture as a climate solution that can be woven into communications with a variety of stakeholders. 

 

4.  Photovoice: a community based approach to social science research

Workshop Lead: Natalie Lord 

Overview: Join this session to learn about a participatory research approach, the photovoice methodology! During this workshop, you will learn about how to conduct a photovoice project which includes a multi-step process: participant training, photo documentation, written narratives, one-on-one interviews, a focus group, and a community outreach event. Photovoice is a unique research method that allows the participants to take the lead in conducting data collection and guide the outcomes of the project. The workshop format will include a brief presentation of the methodology, time for questions and discussion about equitable engagement of research participants, and a mini photovoice focus group activity. 

 

5.  Gullah Geechee Foundations in Aquaculture

Workshop Leads: Marilyn L Hemingway and Victoria Smalls

Overview: Join executive directors from two organizations, The Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor (GGCHC) and the Gullah Geechee Chamber of Commerce (GGCC), as they share the captivating intersection of Gullah Geechee heritage and the realm of aquaculture. In this enlightening session, we will delve into the profound impact of aquaculture on the lives of Gullah Geechee farming and fishing communities, shedding light on the collaborative efforts between GGCHC, GGCC and local communities, as well as federal agencies like NOAA, to champion sustainable marine aquaculture. The Gullah Geechee people are descendants of West and Central Africans enslaved in the lower Atlantic states during the era of slavery. Their distinctive heritage, nurtured on isolated coastal plantations, finds expression in their culinary traditions, arts, crafts, and the unique Gullah language. Join us to explore the enduring legacy of the Gullah Geechee people and uncover how aquaculture serves as a foundational pillar for cultural preservation, economic empowerment, and environmental sustainability. Our workshop promises to inspire, educate, and deepen your appreciation for the indelible impact of the Gullah Geechee on American culture and history.