On February 18, 2025, California State University, Los Angeles held its Ocean Research Symposium, a cross-disciplinary event designed to showcase the breadth of ocean- and coastal-related research taking place across campus. The two-hour program welcomed students, faculty, and community members to the Student Services Building for a morning of presentations and discussion.
The symposium began with a welcome from Dr. Kate Sullivan (Anthropology), followed by opening remarks from Dean René Vellanoweth of the College of Natural and Social Sciences. The event was part of a broader effort to engage students in faculty-led research and to highlight opportunities available through the California State University Council on Ocean Affairs, Science & Technology (COAST), which offers funding support for both undergraduate and graduate research.
Faculty members from departments across the university—including anthropology, biology, chemistry, civil engineering, geography, history, English, and art—participated in lightning-style presentations. Their talks explored a wide range of ocean and coastal issues, from environmental and technological questions to historical and cultural perspectives. This interdisciplinary format emphasized the ocean’s relevance not only to science, but also to society, storytelling, and everyday life.
The symposium underscored Cal State LA’s commitment to fostering research that is locally grounded yet globally relevant. Students were encouraged to connect with faculty mentors and explore ways they can contribute to coastal and marine scholarship. The event closed with a Q&A and a shared sense of momentum for continued collaboration and exploration.