This summer, we set our sails for Lafayette, Louisiana, where we joined marine educators, scientists, and advocates from around the world at the National Marine Educators Association (NMEA) Annual Conference, held June 28–July 3, 2025. The event, hosted by NMEA’s Southern Association of Marine Educators (SAME), marked a special milestone: 20 years of advancing Ocean Literacy, and we were thrilled to be part of the celebration.
From the moment we arrived, we were immersed in a community of like-minded individuals dedicated to sharing the wonders and importance of our ocean. The week was packed with innovative sessions, collaborative workshops, and powerful conversations about the future of ocean and climate education.
Sharing Our Work on a Global Stage
We were honored to contribute to the conference in several meaningful ways, representing not only Educational Passages but also our regional NMEA chapter: Gulf of Maine Marine Educators Association (GOMMEA):
- Cassie presented in partnership with the Ocean Affairs Council of Taiwan during the International Ocean Literacy Leadership Workshop, where she highlighted the power of cross-cultural collaboration in ocean education.
- Daryn led a concurrent session, showcasing our Miniboat Program and the ways it connects students to the sea—and to one another—through hands-on STEAM learning, real-world exploration, and international partnerships.
We’re so grateful to everyone who attended our sessions and showed interest in our work. Your questions, insights, and energy meant the world to us.
A Taste of Cajun Culture
Beyond the conference halls, we made time to soak up the rich Cajun culture that makes Lafayette so vibrant. From spicy jambalaya, crawfish and grits, and fresh beignets to late-night zydeco music and warm Southern hospitality, the experience added a whole new layer of connection and joy to our time together.
Whether it was exploring the wildlife surrounding the university campus, dancing to live music, sharing delicious food, or learning the stories behind this niche region, every moment outside the sessions deepened our appreciation for the culture and community that hosted us so generously.
Celebrating 20 Years of Ocean Literacy
Ocean Literacy is understanding the ocean’s influence on you – and your influence on the ocean. NMEA has been integral to the development and promotion of Ocean Literacy since 2005, and is a key contributor of global resources such as: the Ocean Literacy Guide and A Handbook for Increasing Ocean Literacy: Tools for Educators and Ocean Literacy Advocates. Both essential in explaining the core principles and fundamental concepts of ocean sciences for learners of all ages and the educators and advocates that implement the components throughout initiatives and institutions.
Take a deep dive across the years with the new interactive timeline by clicking on the image below:
Leaving Louisiana Inspired and Energized
After a week of learning, networking, and exchanging ideas, we left Lafayette with full hearts and a renewed sense of purpose. The conference served as a powerful reminder that our collective efforts—whether in classrooms, communities, or on the water—are part of a much larger wave of change.
With ocean and climate education more important than ever, we’re heading into the upcoming school year feeling inspired, informed, and ready to sail full speed ahead.
Want to Learn More?
If you’re curious about the National Marine Educators Association, want to get involved, or are interested in attending a future conference (mark your calendars—NMEA 2026 is in Maryland!), visit www.marine-ed.org.
Together, we can keep making known the world of water.
