A Message from the Executive Board (COVID-19 Update)
The February Welcome to WAN Happy Hour at the Blackfinn Ameripub in DC was a fun-filled evening of meeting old friends, making new acquaintances and, for many new members, an introduction to WAN. We toasted, we cheered, we touted upcoming events, we checked our calendars, and we made plans to meet again. If you were new to WAN that evening, you discovered that this network is made up of leaders in government agencies, academia, and non-profits. There are writers, researchers, engineers, students, and interns. From fishermen to fellows, water is the great unifier of this workforce diversity. That evening, we were reminded by two amazing women, Helen Brohl and Lynne Mersfelder-Lewis, that the engagement of women in marine, freshwater, and coastal affairs, particularly in leadership positions, is growing year after year. If you left the happy hour feeling uplifted from the extraordinary camaraderie within this field, welcome to WAN!
As we enter May, despite differing restrictions in the DMV, we know a typical day “in the office” means lots of group phone and conference calls, webinars, and back-and-forth emails. We struggle to stick to the boundaries we have created for ourselves between our computers, phones, and the rest of our lives with our families, roommates, friends, and pets. Our labs are shut down, our dissertations are defended virtually, our classes are taught on-line, our job interviews are held in chat rooms, our field research has been delayed, and our critical plans interrupted. Outside the work world, we are experiencing virtual doctor visits, happy hours, and even purchasing homes that are not physically “walked through” until purchased!
Our Executive Board has been working to keep creativity, community, and connection during this time of social-distancing. This year, the Women’s Aquatic Network (WAN)—and the women behind it are celebrating the 35th anniversary of our establishment in 1985. Physical distancing has not taken the wind out of our sails! The camaraderie you felt at the happy hour can not be taken for granted. As we navigate these unchartered waters, WAN is venturing into the sea of virtual events. Let's continue to support each other. If you are able, please join us in keeping a focus on the importance of aquatic science to our society.
We are lucky to live in a time when we can stay connected even when we can’t be together physically.
Now is the time to adjust our sails and make life smoother for everyone! Be safe, be kind, be supportive, and most of all be well!