The University of Washington School of Marine and Environmental Affairs (SMEA) would like to thank everyone who participated in our Winter 2026 Speaker Series. Over several weeks, the series brought together leaders from the maritime industry, government, environmental organizations, and the Port of Seattle to share their expertise and perspectives with our community.
We are deeply grateful to our guest speakers, Tong Zhu, John Wolfe, Toshiko Hasegawa, Steve Metruck, Captain Mark McDonnell, Sandy Kilroy, Alex Adams, Jon Sloan, Kathleen Hurley, Delaney Cyphers, Andy Gregory, and Bookda Gheiser, for generously sharing their knowledge and professional experiences. 

Please join us in celebrating Dr. Terrie Klinger on her retirement and transition to Professor Emeritus in 2026.  
A benthic ecologist, Dr. Klinger’s research has focused on applying ecological theory to practical management solutions, including ecosystem-based approaches to managing natural resources in the ocean, the ecological effects of environmental stressors, such as ocean acidification and habitat loss, and how rocky intertidal communities respond to and recover from disturbance. 

The School of Marine and Environmental Affairs (SMEA) is pleased to announce the 2026 Winter Speaker Series, “Building a Port for the Future.” Hosted in partnership with leaders from the Port of Seattle, the Northwest Seaport Alliance, and the U.S. Coast Guard, this year’s series will explore how ports shape economic opportunity, community well-being, and environmental resilience across the region.
Running from January 15 through February 26, the series brings together senior executives, commissioners, environmental planners, SMEA alumni, and federal sector leadership for weekly conversations on the challenges and opportunities facing modern maritime systems. 

New research co-authored by Nives Dolšak, Ph.D., director of SMEA, explores how different audiences perceive the emerging issue of deep-sea mining. The study, published in Environmental Research Letters, compares perspectives between the general public and environmental organizations.
The findings suggest that public support for deep-sea mining can shift depending on how the issue is framed, for example, emphasizing economic benefits or environmental risks, while environmental organizations tend to hold more consistent views. 

A recent publication in PARKS Journal examines how cities around the world can better protect biodiversity through stronger recognition and management of urban protected areas (UPAs). The article was developed in collaboration with the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s World Commission on Protected Areas Urban Conservation Strategies Specialist Group and was featured in a special issue connected to the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi. 

Now more than ever, students at the School of Marine and Environmental Affairs (SMEA) are committed to making a real-world impact. SMEA students are critical thinkers with diverse lived experiences and a passion for the environment. Our graduates are equipped to seize opportunities and resolve complex environmental problems in our local communities, nation, and around the globe.
Make a gift today to the SMEA Graduate Student Fellowship Fund. 

A new article from the University of Washington School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences highlights research led by former SAFS research scientist Connor Lewis-Smith, now a specialist with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Based on interviews with commercial shellfish growers across the Pacific region, the study explores how industry stakeholders view ocean acidification, adaptation strategies, and the need for continued environmental monitoring as ocean conditions change. 

Professor Ryan Kelly was interviewed for his work with environmental DNA in two publications, NPR and Science.
Scientists want to track the world’s biodiversity using DNA in the air by Ari Daniel.
DNA captured from the air could track wildlife, invasive species–and humans by Warren Cornwall. 

Congratulations to our soon-to-be graduates for the 2025 theses and capstone presentations! 

Why did you decide to pursue a master’s in 
marine affairs?

To expand my knowledge of the different industries related to marine affairs and ecology.

Describe your experience in applying to and selecting a graduate program.

I had researched a variety of schools but had my heart set on going to UW. I had applied to a few programs at the school but SMEA was my top choice

How did you first hear about SMEA?