Record number of exhibits bring research to life at 24th annual Marine Science Day
At two and a half years old, James was nervous to touch a Chesapeake Bay blue crab. However, as he lifted the live specimen for closer examination, his face quickly broke into a wide smile.
That enthusiastic curiosity was on full display across the Gloucester Point campus during Marine Science Day, W&M’s Batten School & VIMS’ marquee open house recently held on May 30. With a record number of exhibits, including posters, hands-on activities and educational demonstrations, coastal and marine research was memorably brought to life for James and more than 1,800 other attendees at the 24th annual event.
For many, Marine Science Day is a highly anticipated tradition. Years ago, James Bygert regularly attended the open house with his young daughter, Stephanie. Now when they visit, they are joined by her own two children, including James, who is named after his grandfather.
“I brought Stephanie when she was little, and now I’m here with my grandkids. We’ve had a grand time,” said Bygert, explaining why the event has become an intergenerational family affair. “The people here are super nice, friendly and helpful.”
Bygert's daughter, Stephanie Molloy, added her appreciation that there were a wide range of exhibits. “There's hands-on opportunities, and there's good stuff for every age,” she said. “We've been coming again since I was pregnant, and it's been fun to watch [James] grow up and try new things each time. And we’ll be back next year to do new things.”
During Marine Science Day, the public has access to academic buildings and laboratories at the Batten School of Coastal & Marine Sciences & VIMS, enabling visitors to learn and interact with scientists and students. Exhibits ranged from the live touch tanks to seining in the York River, a marine life costume contest, face painting, marine science trivia, a photobooth and a marine science career fair.
“The career fair was my favorite,” said recent high school graduate Connor Castle, who made the long drive from Front Royal, Virginia, with his mother and aunt to attend the open house. “I learned a lot about some of the various things you can do in the field. The two people that stood out to me were the senior marine scientist and the park ranger, because their jobs are so different.”
“This has been awesome,” echoed his mother, Kathleen Castle. “I feel like this is a great opportunity for a lot of kids to come, especially if they're interested in science and conservation.”
Each year, Marine Science Day is organized and administered by a small army of faculty, staff, students and supporters. In 2026, more than 250 volunteers set up stations, directed traffic, registered attendees, drove shuttle buses, distributed waders and life jackets, presented research and facilitated interactive activities.
“I want to share my sincere gratitude for everyone's help hosting a fantastic Marine Science Day,” said Kristen Sharpe, the associate director of outreach and engagement who leads the event. “I am always amazed by the creative activities and informational displays that our scientists, students and educators develop to make their work accessible and interesting to a diverse audience.”
Clear, sunny weather provided an ideal backdrop for both fun and learning, which Sharpe said made all the dedicated time and effort well worth it. “I heard nothing but great things, and saw many smiling and happy faces,” she said, before previewing next year’s event milestone: “Next year will be our 25th annual Marine Science Day, so you can anticipate quite a few nostalgic flashbacks and celebratory activities in 2027!”
To support educational programming at the Batten School & VIMS, consider making a gift to the Outreach Fund (4117).
Marine Science Day 2026 was made possible through the generous support of our sponsors: Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation, Colonial Pipeline Company, The Owens Foundation, Chesapeake Bank, Bank of America and Elizabeth Cabell.