The 2025 capstone and thesis projects at SMEA showcased a diverse range of interdisciplinary research addressing important environmental and social issues. Capstone teams collaborated with external partners to tackle real-world challenges, from enhancing environmental justice in flood management to exploring community benefit agreements for equitable renewable energy expansion. Our thesis-track students engaged in rigorous, independent research with topics ranging from marine science to policy analysis. 

Dan Tonnes, like many SMEA graduates with careers in the federal government or with federal funding, informed us he was leaving NOAA and federal employment after 25 years in order to take advantage of the buyout program. His premature exit from federal service has many ramifications for him, for NOAA with the loss of experience and talent, and for SMEA, as explained below. 

What is this column?
We are experimenting with ways to engage with our alumni and to inspire current students with their accomplishments. This section is a random walk through what we’ve recently observed about or heard from alumni. Please keep Graduate Program Advisor, Tiffany L. Dion, up to date with your accomplishments and changes in location or employment. ((tlcdion@uw.edu ) 
 
Dr. 

From monitoring humpbacks in Alaskan waters to shaping electric vehicle policy in Washington State, SMEA Alumni are actively leading and supporting cutting-edge research across environmental sectors. While their roles vary, they all share a commitment to interdisciplinary work and a passion for applied, real-world impact.
 
Ryan Swanson (SMEA class of 2019) is an environmental scientist at Environmental Science Associates (ESA) and conducts research for offshore infrastructure projects like tidal energy installations, fiber optic cables, and underwater battery systems. 

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. 

Grist highlights the work of SMEA research scientist Dr. Chris Sergeant on how melting glaciers in Alaska and British Columbia are reshaping salmon habitat. Sergeant discusses the ecological opportunities and risks as new lakes and streams form, while mining interests explore newly exposed lands. His research emphasizes the need for careful monitoring and collaboration to protect these vital ecosystems.
Read the full article here 

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. 

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

Applying to graduate school was one of the most difficult things I have ever done. Not necessarily because it was hard to put together an application, but because of the mental blocks that paralyzed me from even beginning. It took the pandemic, the realization that life was too short to not pursue your passions, and a LOT of therapy to get me to even apply. 

The School of Marine and Environmental Affairs will hold its next faculty meeting on Thursday, June 5, at 12:00 pm. Please see below for location details:
OCN Room 203  or via Zoom
A copy of the meeting agenda,06.05.25 Faculty Meeting Agenda Final, is provided. Please contact Hailie Borges (hrb25@uw.edu) with any questions or for more information. 

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