December 3, 2007

I am proud and honored to be the first President of the Consortium for Ocean Leadership.  Nearly a year and a half ago, I was asked to help facilitate the merger of CORE and JOI.  I have spent this time helping to shepherd that process along, working out the details of how two successful organizations merge in a way that preserves the best of both.

Ocean Leadership is a Washington, DC based nonprofit organization that represents 95 of the leading public and private ocean research and education institutions, aquaria and industries with the mission to advance research, education and sound ocean policy.  The organization also manages ocean research and education programs in areas of scientific ocean drilling, ocean observing, ocean exploration, and ocean partnerships.

The name for the organization was chosen quite deliberately – the Consortium for Ocean Leadership.  We are a consortium- 95 members strong at this writing.  The “for” turns out to be a very important word in the title.  Together, our 95 member institutions represent the leadership of the ocean sciences community. Collective action will influence public policy in a more positive manner, resulting in greater impact at the federal level, with stronger programs and facilities to serve the community.

Ocean Leadership is designed to be just what the name implies — representing leadership. It is the only organization that embodies all the critical components — science, education and advocacy — necessary to maximize its impact on the future of ocean science and education. Through Ocean Leadership, our members play a critical role in shaping the future of oceanography.

You’ll notice some cosmetic changes right away – a new name, new logo, and new materials.  A lot will stay the same – we’re committed to providing the same high level science program management, leadership on the Hill, and education efforts for which both organizations were well known and respected.

I am very fortunate to be inheriting a strong framework.  Both Admiral Dick West and Dr. Steven Bohlen built CORE and JOI, respectively, into dynamic, successful organizations.  Dick will be retiring at the end of 2007, moving on to new challenges, and has graciously agreed to lend his support and guidance during my first month.  I am grateful that Steve will be staying on board helping me with the final stages of the merger continuing to serve as the lead of our major science programs.  

As you are well aware, ocean sciences face many challenges in research support, infrastructure needs, and developing the next generation of science leaders.  You can expect many updates from Ocean Leadership in the months ahead, as we navigate these challenges.  I’ll need your help and support – as Ocean Leaders – to help us chart a course that brings many successes to our community in the coming years and prepares us for the future.  This is an exciting time for ocean sciences – I’m excited to be here.  

Dr. Robert Gagosian