Louella Losinio - Guam EPSCoR

April 22, 2025April 22, 2025

UOG introduces 5th G3 Conservation Corps

The 5th cohort of the Guam Green Growth Kupu Conservation Corps, along with Governor Lou Leon Guerrero, Lieutenant Governor Josh Tenorio, UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant Director Austin Shelton, PhD, and UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant Associate Director for Communications and Engagement Kyle Mandapat, hold signs displaying the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals in CHamoru.

UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant Director Austin Shelton, PhD, speaks at the launch of the 5th cohort of the Guam Green Growth Kupu Conservation Corps. According to Shelton, the enhanced program resulted from the university's and its partners' commitment to workforce development, particularly through the G3 Conservation Corps program."

UOG President Anita Borja Enriquez addresses the 5th cohort of the Guam Green Growth Kupu Conservation Corps. She called the new cohort, “the future leaders of Guam’s environmental movement."

The University of Guam (UOG) has announced 12 new participants for the Guam Green Growth (G3) Kupu Conservation Corps, marking its expansion into a six-month program that offers enhanced training and benefits.

The new cohort was introduced by the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant on Monday, March 31, at the UOG Global Learning and Engagement Building.

Over the next six months, the new G3 Kupu Conservation Corps members will receive comprehensive training and hands-on experience in various sustainability areas connected to Guam’s green economy. These areas include agriculture and aquaculture, island beautification, invasive species removal, reforestation, circular economy practices, recycling, and renewable energy.

UOG President Anita Borja Enriquez, DBA, called the new cohort, “the future leaders of Guam’s environmental movement.”

“You will gain valuable knowledge, background, and experiences that will ultimately be passed forward and appreciated through this movement for a more sustainable island,” Enriquez added.

Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero, who co-chairs the G3 initiative with Enriquez, also emphasized the importance of having a new cohort participate in the program. “We need people who are very conscious minded of conservation, of sustainability. Because that’s how we can continue our quality of life that we so much deserve.”

Here are the new members of the G3 Kupu Conservation Corps:

Christian Arriola
Curtis-Robert Bukikosa
Joshua Cepeda
Marrae Cruz
Audree Justine Amuan James-Perez
Mi’yah Max
Eyana Pereda
Matthew Pangelinan
Nicolas Quinata
John Reynold
John Rushworth
Gideon Tyquiengco

Reflecting on his decision to join the conservation corps, Bukikosa said, “I want to take care of the island and make sure that the resources we have last for the future.”

Meanwhile, Max saw the program announcement as an opportunity to contribute more to the island. Reynold, originally from the Federated States of Micronesia and a Guam resident for 14 years, emphasized that “giving back to the community is important.”

UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant Director Austin Shelton, PhD, said that the enhanced program came to be because of the investments made by the university and its partners into workforce development, in particular, into the G3 Conservation Corps program.

“This is something that has grown in the past few years,” Shelton said.

According to Shelton, the integration of the G3 Conservation Corps with the G3 Kupu Corps for this cycle offers significant advantages. In addition to expanded training, the program now includes an extra month of salary and healthcare benefits for the participants.

Beyond the program’s benefits, Shelton also emphasized its core impact on building a sustainability mindset, which is foundational for the transition to a green economy. “Your role is really important because this is a workforce development program that supports the road toward a green economy,” he said, addressing the new cohort.

Upon completion, participants will receive a stipend and the opportunity to earn up to 80 continuing education units (CEUs) from UOG Global Learning and Engagement. They will also engage with a diverse range of environmental organizations and initiatives across Guam and the broader Micronesia region. The first G3 Conservation Corps program  was launched in 2021.

What is G3?  
The UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant facilitates the  Guam Green Growth, or G3 initiative, in cooperation with the Office of the Governor of Guam and the G3 Working Group, whose members represent all sectors of society. With the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals and G3 Action Framework as a guide, G3 develops tangible solutions to sustainability challenges and contributes to a green economy for the island region. 

Guam NSF EPSCoR is the catalyst for G3. One of its programs is the G3 Conservation Corps, a workforce development initiative that creates opportunities in the green economy.

April 22, 2025April 22, 2025

Initial results of valuation study show Guam NSF EPSCoR’s G3 socio-economic potential

Christian Valencia, an economist working on a valuation study of the Guam Green Growth (G3) initiative, shares his initial findings at the Green Growth Summit at the 16th UOG Conference on Island Sustainability. According to Valencia, every dollar invested in the G3 Conservation Corps returns over three times its value to Guam.

For every dollar invested in the Guam Green Growth (G3) Conservation Corps at the University of Guam, the island receives more than three times that amount in economic and social value, according to the partial results of an economic valuation of the G3 initiative.

Christian Valencia, an economist, revealed a snapshot of the ongoing study during the 3rd day of the 16th UOG Conference on Island Sustainability.

Guam NSF EPSCoR is the catalyst for G3. One of its programs is the G3 Conservation Corps, a workforce development initiative that creates opportunities in the green economy.

According to Valencia, the study aims to answer a crucial question: How does the G3 initiative — starting with the G3 Conservation Corps — impact the island economically, and how can this information guide future decisions?

With $1.5 million in legislative funding and a $500,000 local match from 2022 to 2024, G3 is estimated to generate an annualized benefit of $1.7 million, according to Valencia. Around $521,461 of the local investment was appropriated for the G3 Conservation Corps program.

“This results in a return on investment (ROI) of 3.42, meaning for every dollar invested in the G3 Conservation Corps, Guam receives more than three times that amount in economic and social value,” Valencia said.

Valencia provided samples of some of the activities evaluated in the study.

An example involves the removal of invasive algae by the G3 Conservation Corps from Guam’s coral reefs, in collaboration with NOAA, the Marine Lab, and the National Park Service. The estimated economic benefit of this effort is $1.7 million per year, based on reef-related economic values associated with diving and snorkeling activities.

Tree planting efforts under the Guam Restoration of Watersheds (GROW) have also produced significant results. To date, over 5,400 trees have been planted, contributing to carbon sequestration, improved air quality, and stormwater mitigation. These activities have an estimated long-term benefit of $235,000 over the next 20 years, according to Valencia.

“Just putting everything in perspective, these are preliminary estimates, and of course, our work continues, but it’s already clear, G3 is leveraging these local investments to achieve more value for our island community,” he added.

Valencia highlighted the importance of moving beyond traditional economic indicators, such as the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), which he said often fails to capture the full value of sustainability efforts.

“GDP only measures market output, but it does not account for the non-market benefits of environmental conservation, social equity, and public health,” he said. “Our goal is to put a number to the value of these initiatives and show how they contribute to the broader well-being of the island community.”

As the project continues, Valencia will refine their models to quantify the impacts of G3’s work further, helping policymakers and the public understand the actual value of investing in a sustainable future for Guam.

The Pacific Research on Island Solutions for Adaptation (Pacific RISA), based at the East-West Center and Arizona State University, supports the economic evaluation study.

April 21, 2025April 21, 2025

Marshall Islands joins Green Growth movement, commits to 100% renewable energy at UOG sustainability conference

Republic of the Marshall Islands President Hilda Heine, PhD, signs the Blue Planet Climate Agreement, committing the Marshall Islands’ transition to full renewable energy by 2045. Present at the signing are Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero, UOG President Anita Borja Enriquez, DBA, Blue Planet Alliance Executive Director Francois Rogers, UOG Center for Island Sustainability Director Austin Shelton, PhD, and UOG CIS&SG Associate Director for Communications and Community Engagement Kyle Mandapat. The event also coincided with the signing of the Marshall Islands as the newest member of the Green Growth movement on April 9, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency, Guam.

The University of Guam facilitated a historic moment for green economic growth and sustainable development when the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) embraced the Green Growth movement and committed to full renewable energy during the 16th UOG Conference on Island Sustainability.

On Friday, April 11, Marshall Islands President Hilda Heine, PhD, who served as the keynote speaker at the conference, signed the Blue Planet Climate Agreement, officially pledging the Marshall Islands’ commitment to transition to 100 percent renewable energy by the year 2045.

This agreement, established in partnership with the Blue Planet Alliance, reinforces the nation’s critical role in climate action and builds upon its 2018 adoption of the 2050 Climate Strategy, which aims for net-zero emissions through renewable energy.

“This alliance today is helping us to move forward to meet that goal. So it’s really supportive of that commitment that we made back in 2017,” said Heine.

The Marshall Islands now joins a network of other island nations, territories, and states—such as Guam, CNMI, Hawaii, Tonga, and Tuvalu—who have committed to the Blue Planet Climate Agreement. This growing global effort is a demonstration of resilience and collaboration among island communities to overcome their shared energy challenges.

Francois Rogers, executive director of Blue Planet Alliance, emphasized the importance of this collective agreement, highlighting its role in fostering cooperation among island nations.

Alongside the signing of the Blue Planet Climate Agreement, Heine also officially joined the Green Growth movement at the conference. Witnesses in the signing included Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero of Guam, UOG President Anita Borja Enriquez, DBA, who are the co-chairs of the Guam Green Growth or G3 initiative.

On the important role of the Green Growth movement in strategically implementing measures addressing global sustainable development goals, Celeste Connors, co-chair of the Secretariat for Local2030 Islands Network said, “This is what we’re signing today. It’s recommitting to these green growth principles, island values, and really measuring what matters to our community, building on our political leadership, and implementation and concrete action.”

The Local2030 Islands Network facilitates the Green Growth movement across the Pacific region.

The 16th UOG Conference on Island Sustainability also hosted the first Green Growth Summit, where Borja Enriquez said the Green Growth movement is for the future of the island, “Who are we doing this for? We are doing this for our manhoben, for our youth, for generations to come.,” she said.

At the start of the conference, Borja Enriquez emphasized the university’s part in the movement, “Our conference theme underscores the urgency and proactive approach that we are taking to secure a sustainable future for our island and the broader Pacific region. And the University of Guam plays a vital role in generating knowledge and developing practical solutions for island sustainability,” she said.

UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant Director Austin Shelton, PhD, said the expansion of the Green Growth on Guam and across the region indicates an increasing acceptance of the importance of sustainable development. “Sustainability used to be a fringe idea, now it is the centerpiece of global accords — thanks to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. And Guam has found its place as a leader in that movement,” he said.

In 2023, UOG announced its expansion of the G3 Initiative across the Western Pacific, following a $1.4 million grant from the U.S. Department of State through the NOAA National Sea Grant College Program. This grant supports the expansion of the Local2030 Islands Network and the Green Growth Initiative to the RMI, CNMI, Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of Palau.

February 7, 2025February 7, 2025

UOG EPSCoR and INCLUDES introduce 2025 undergraduate fellows

Above, the eight undergraduate research fellows for the Guam NSF EPSCoR and Guam NSF SEAS Island Alliance INCLUDES student research programs are together with their family, friends, and research mentors at the family orientation meeting in January

The University of Guam has announced the selection of eight students from diverse STEM fields as the 2025 undergraduate research fellows for the Guam NSF EPSCoR and Guam NSF SEAS Island Alliance INCLUDES programs.

The undergraduate fellows were introduced at a family orientation meeting held in January. Among the eight students, four are part of the NSF EPSCoR Student Research Experience (SRE), while the other four are part of the NSF SEAS Island Alliance INCLUDES undergraduate fellowship.

Here are the 2025 research undergraduate fellows:

Archancel Abellera (INCLUDES)
Azer Bilimon (INCLUDES)
Kiaza Jerao (INCLUDES)
Cameron San Agustin (INCLUDES)
Napu Camacho (EPSCoR)
Ale’a Duenas (EPSCoR)
Maya Flores (EPSCoR)
Diego Quioge (EPSCoR)

Both programs aim to encourage students to pursue careers in STEM fields. As part of their experience, students engage in research projects with various mentors who possess expertise in areas ranging from marine biology and plant conservation to engineering

Some students have participated in other NSF EPSCoR or INCLUDES programs, such as Bilimon from the Marshall Islands, who worked with UOG Civil Engineering assistant professor Ernesto Guades, Ph.D., on research exploring the potential of coconut fibers as a construction material. Bilimon mentioned that he will continue working under Guades’ mentorship for his undergraduate fellowship.

Reflecting on his fellowship, Bilimon, who is enrolled in the civil engineering program at UOG, stated, “Science has always piqued my curiosity, thanks to my love for sci-fi movies, and I was part of the STEM students at my previous institution. Especially since the Marshall Islands has been struggling with climate change, I want to learn more to find solutions that can improve my community.”

For Jerao, being selected as a 2025 undergraduate fellow marks a significant step in her STEM career. She is eager to grow academically, professionally, and personally through this opportunity.

“What interests me in STEM is how it pushes the boundaries of what we know and can do. Whether it’s exploring new scientific principles or solving real-world problems, STEM allows us to translate complex ideas into practical solutions that can truly make a difference,” Jerao shared.

Duenas, a previous SEAS Island Alliance undergraduate fellow, has returned to the program, this time as a Guam NSF EPSCoR researcher under the mentorship of Bastian Bentlage, Ph.D. She explained, “I chose to pursue another student research experience to explore a wider range of opportunities beyond fisheries and gain exposure to different areas of research.”

Now that she has a better understanding of what to expect from the experience, Duenas is determined to make the most of her time in the program. “I hope to spend as much time as I can in the lab to learn new things beyond the scope of my project,” she said.

Quioque, whose mentor is Robert Lasley, Ph.D., the curator of crustacea of the Guam EPSCoR GECCO Biorepository, hopes the skills he acquires from the research experience will bolster his confidence in pursuing a career in biology.

“My inspiration for applying for the student research experience was to push myself out of my comfort zone,” said Quiogue, a junior majoring in Applied Biology. “I also wanted to gain valuable skills and experience.”

The undergraduate research programs offer participants a chance to collaborate with experienced researchers and benefit from ongoing mentorship. Through near-peer sessions, the participants can learn from individuals who have recently completed their fellowship. Participants also receive a monthly stipend to support their work in the program. Additionally, the program provides opportunities to attend national STEM conferences, allowing for networking and the exchange of knowledge.

January 15, 2025January 28, 2025

UOG workshop reveals findings on tackling crown-of-thorns outbreaks

Dr. Ciemon Caballes, a senior research associate at the University of Guam's NSF EPSCoR and assistant professor at the UOG Marine Lab, presented findings from a study during the "Guam Crown-of-Thorns Starfish Outbreak Response Strategy" workshop in December at the UOG Marine Lab.

Insights into reproductive trends, predation patterns, and climatic triggers observed before a crown-of-thorns (COTS) outbreak are crucial for developing effective mitigation strategies to protect coral reefs, according to Ciemon Caballes, Ph.D., a senior research associate at the University of Guam’s NSF EPSCoR and assistant professor at the UOG Marine Lab.

Caballes shared his insights during the “Guam Crown-of-Thorns Starfish Outbreak Response Strategy” workshop in December at the UOG Marine Lab.

COTS are marine invertebrates known for their predation on corals. They can cause devastating impacts on coral reefs by depleting coral populations. They are found in reefs across the Indo-Pacific region.

Caballes’ research, supported by a grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, in collaboration with UOG’s NSF EPSCoR and Sea Grant, and other local and federal resource management agencies, focuses on understanding and mitigating these outbreaks.

“When we try to catch a serial predator, like the crown-of-thorns starfish, we need to build a profile,” Caballes said noting that understanding COTS and the trends leading to an outbreak is crucial for an effective mitigation strategy.

Caballes outlined several hypotheses regarding the formation of COTS outbreaks. The first suggests that outbreaks are a natural biological predisposition, given the species’ high fertilization rates.

According to Caballes, even a single mating pair can initiate a population surge. He said a female starfish could potentially produce over 100 million eggs in one spawning season while a male can produce around 50 billion sperm.

Surprisingly, he pointed out that, despite a male-skewed sex ratio, crown-of-thorns starfish maintain high fertilization rates, achieving up to 30% success even when separated by significant distances.

The second hypothesis links outbreaks to the overfishing of natural predators, leading to the release of COTS from predatory pressure and triggering a trophic cascade.

He also discussed the nutrient hypothesis, which posits that elevated nutrient levels from river runoff result in increased phytoplankton densities. Since phytoplankton provide a source of food for COTS larvae, the spike improves their survival and development rates. However, he also said recent findings indicate that excessive phytoplankton might lead to overfeeding, affecting larvae survival negatively.

Caballes also recalled several significant outbreaks, particularly one in 2009, and noted the possible influence of temperature and strong El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events on COTS populations. He illustrated the correlation between high precipitation and river discharge events, such as those in 2003 and 2004, and subsequent COTS outbreaks in 2006 and 2007.

Caballes noted, “With back-to-back coral bleaching events compounded by COTS outbreaks, corals are struggling to recover.” He emphasized the need for effective management strategies to address these dual threats.

“This workshop is the culmination of our work since 2022. The project began in March of that year to assess the crown-of-thorns starfish populations around Guam and explore the feasibility of coral rehabilitation in these reef areas.” Caballes stated.

Caballes described their research efforts, which included testing various plots to determine if culling crown-of-thorns starfish would enhance the survival of transplanted corals.

Input from workshop participants have been integrated into the Guam COTS Outbreak Strategic Management Plan, which will be available to the public and distributed to all local and federal partners.

Fran Castro, associate director for operations and development at the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, participates in the "Guam Crown-of-Thorns Starfish Outbreak Response Strategy" workshop in December at the UOG Marine Lab.

The Crown of Thorns Starfish has been reproducing at high levels causing trouble for coral reefs surrounding Guam. The workshop held at the UOG Marine Lab aimed to provide updates on the growing population and their affects on the marine ecosystem of the island. Photo courtesy of GuamReefLife.com and David Burdick.

Fran Castro, associate director for operations and development at the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, highlighted the significance of the project in addressing COTS. She described multi-agency efforts that involved training local agencies and coordinating monitoring efforts.

November 25, 2024January 15, 2025

UOG-hosted town hall explores ocean energy for aquaculture, island power-source

Bastian Bentlage, associate professor of Bioinformatics at the UOG Marine Lab and one of the leads from UOG, speaks at the November town hall meeting, 'Ocean Energy Systems to Power Guam Aquaculture.' Bentlage states that UOG'd primary role in the project is to provide insights into site-specific considerations for evaluating the feasibility of deploying ocean energy systems.

While ocean energy system technologies are still in the development stage, their potential as a renewable energy source is promising, according to a technical report from a study developed by a team from the University of Guam, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), and Sandia National Laboratory.

The findings presented at a November town hall meeting, “Ocean Energy Systems to Power Guam Aquaculture,” focused on utilizing ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC) and wave energy conversion (WEC) technologies to power a proposed Guam Aquaculture Innovation Center and, potentially, as a renewable power source for Guam.

UOG hosted the town hall with the support of Guam NSF EPSCoR and the Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, during which PNNL, the lead entity for the project, presented the findings and gathered feedback from community participants to inform future research.

Since the performance of OTEC and WEC systems is site-specific, they examined two potential locations for the proposed aquaculture center: Tanguisson on the west side of Guam and an area near the UOG Marine Lab on the east side, according to Bastian Bentlage, associate professor of Bioinformatics at the UOG Marine Lab.

“One of the questions we asked is what are the options for powering an aquaculture facility using renewable energy that harvest the power of waves or thermal gradients between surface and deep-sea waters,” Bentlage said.

Bentlage explained that UOG’s primary role in the project was to provide insights into site-specific considerations for evaluating the feasibility of deploying these ocean energy systems. He emphasized the importance of including team members familiar with Guam’s unique landscape and marine environments.

Bentlage and David Crisostomo, an aquaculture specialist with the UOG Sea Grant Program, are leading the research at UOG for this project.

Crisostomo described the proposed aquaculture center as a potential game-changer for Guam’s aquaculture industry. He stated that the center will serve as a research hub for cultivating local species. Additionally, it could provide a business incubator setup for individuals interested in entering the aquaculture industry.

At the town hall, the project leads presented the benefits as well as the infrastructure, environmental, and economic impacts of OTEC and WEC.

In her presentation, Fleur de Peralta, senior advisor with the Risk & Environmental Assessment Group at PNNL, highlighted the benefits and challenges of ocean energy systems for Guam. She stated that OTEC can provide baseload power, which helps stabilize the grid and supports black start capabilities. The ocean’s depth near Guam is ideal for the technology, and the consistently warm surface temperatures ensure an adequate temperature differential. Additionally, OTEC, once deployed, will create jobs in installation and maintenance, among others.

However, there are challenges to consider. For OTEC, further research is needed to assess water temperatures and depths accurately, and environmental protection requires additional study. The permitting process remains unclear among various agencies, and shore-based plants must be designed to withstand natural hazards.

Regarding WEC, de Peralta presented assessments by Sandia that indicate Guam possesses substantial wave resources. However, ensuring a reliable survival strategy for installations is essential, and deployment can be costly, necessitating a careful balance of cabling and mooring expenses with location choices.

De Peralta noted, “Outreach engagements with the Guam community and stakeholders is an important part of our project to gain insights on the use of marine energy systems as a clean energy power source and considerations on the potential impact on the island, environment, culture, and livelihood of the island’s communities.”

Peralta, who grew up in Guam, said that the information shared during the town hall discussions will inform further assessments and the development of ocean energy systems.”

Meanwhile, Charles Gunzel, a program manager at PNNL, also emphasized the importance of community feedback, which ocean energy system designers should consider.

“It’s extremely satisfying to engage with the residents of Guam, learning their unique concerns, so these can be made known to the planners, designers, and manufacturers of tomorrow’s ocean energy systems,” Gunzel said.

According to Bentlage, a significant outcome of this project is the strengthened partnership between UOG and the two National Laboratories that lead in renewable energy research and development.

“We intend to build on this relationship to enhance research capacity in this area, supporting informed decision-making as Guam works to diversify its economy and transition to renewable energy,” Bentlage stated.

The project commenced in early 2023 after receiving funding from the US Department of Energy Water Power Technologies Office (WPTO).

Charles Gunzel, a program manager at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, highlights the importance of community feedback in designing and developing ocean energy systems. Gunzel participated in the "Ocean Energy Systems to Power Guam Aquaculture" town hall meeting in November.

At the “Ocean Energy Systems to Power Guam Aquaculture” town hall meeting in November, presenters shared findings on ocean energy systems from a technical report by the University of Guam, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, and Sandia National Laboratory. The focus was on OTEC and WEC technologies to power the proposed Guam Aquaculture Innovation Center and support renewable energy efforts for Guam. They also gathered feedback from members of the community.

David Crisostomo, aquaculture specialist at UOG Sea Grant, describes the proposed aquaculture center as a potential game-changer for Guam’s aquaculture industry at the November town hall meeting, "Ocean Energy Systems to Power Guam Aquaculture."

Fleur de Peralta, senior advisor with the Risk & Environmental Assessment Group at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, presents the benefits and challenges of ocean energy systems for Guam. De Peralta is one of the presenters at the “Ocean Energy Systems to Power Guam Aquaculture” town hall meeting in November.

November 1, 2024December 3, 2024

UOG EPSCoR graduate students spotlight coral research at national conference

During the 28th National Science Foundation Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (NSF EPSCoR) conference, graduate students from the University of Guam presented research that may contribute to coral reef restoration and recovery efforts on the island.

The graduate research assistants or GRAs, all supported by Guam NSF EPSCoR, participated in the research poster presentations at the October 13 to 16 event in Omaha, Nebraska.

NSF Director Sethuraman Panchanathan served as keynote speaker, delivering the talk ‘Innovation Anywhere, Opportunities Everywhere: Accelerating Science and Technology Through Talent, Ideas, and Innovation.”

“The representation of our island at the NSF EPSCoR National
Conference is important because it highlights the growing capacity of our university to conduct research in marine and coastal sciences, as well as to train and mentor a new generation of scientists who possess a deep understanding of our land and ocean resources,” said UOG President Anita Borja Enriquez, DBA.

“Participating in this conference every year positions us as a
thriving research hub for Guam and the entire region,” she added.

For Guam NSF EPSCoR Principal Investigator and Project Director Terry Donaldson, PhD, the Guam NSF EPSCoR team showcased innovative research in one of the nation’s most diverse and intricate marine and coral ecosystems. He said the conference also highlighted the increasing participation and representation of UOG students in STEM.

“This achievement was made possible through the support of the National Science Foundation’s EPSCoR Program, which has been instrumental in fostering research and collaboration in Guam and the region. The conference also provides, through networking opportunities, pathways for student advancement in post-graduate training and entry into the workforce,” Donaldson said.

The following Guam NSF EPSCoR GRAs presented at the conference:

Xavier De Ramos
Anela Duenas
Nikko Galanto
Lauren Kallen
Reilly Kleven
Diana Noto
Andrew O’Neil

Kallen’s poster, titled “The genetic characterization of Drupella fragum outbreaks on Guam,” focused on Drupella fragum, a sea snail that feeds on reef-building staghorn corals.

In the abstract, Kallen highlighted the importance of understanding the dynamics of Drupella fragum population outbreaks, as these outbreaks have the potential to decimate coral colonies rapidly.

While the causes of these outbreaks “remain poorly understood,” the research theorizes that they may be linked to temperature stress and overall reef health, among other factors.

Galanto’s research on “Investigating thermal resilience of Symbiodiniaceae among staghorn Acropora spp.” aims to investigate the thermal resilience of Symbiodiniaceae, a type of alga that has a symbiotic relationship with staghorn corals.

“Some corals are more tolerant to rising sea surface temperatures than others, and some of these disparities may be attributed to thermally tolerant Symbiodiniaceae,” Galanto’s research states.

Like Galanto, Anela Duenas’ poster presentation, “Ecophysiology of coral species replacement in reef flats of Guam,” examines the effects of thermal stress on coral species with Symbiodiniaceae.

“Over the last decade, reefs in Guam have been impacted by coral bleaching events, causing a significant decline in live coral cover,” Duenas says in the abstract. “This research project will contribute to management and restoration efforts by providing crucial information on the role of Symbiodiniaceae in thermal stress on Guam’s reefs.”

According to Bastian Bentlage, PhD, UOG associate professor of bioinformatics and Guam NSF EPSCoR co-principal investigator, the conference poster presentations exposed the team to diverse scientific research.

“Our team presented mostly on climate change impacts on our natural resources, particularly the marine sciences. The poster sessions are quite different from other subject matter conferences because it ranges the whole gamut,” Bentlage said.

For Cheryl Sangueza, PhD, associate professor at the UOG School of
Education and student program coordinator for Guam NSF EPSCoR, empowering the students to participate in the EPSCoR National Conference not only enriches their academic journey but also amplifies their unique voices in the scientific community.

“When these young scholars share their insights and innovations,
they demonstrate that diverse perspectives are crucial in shaping a more inclusive and progressive world of research. What I enjoy most is seeing how our University of Guam students represent our grants, our university, our island, and our region! Our students leave a memorable impression of our university and our island, and we take
great pride in their work,” she said.

The national conference brought together hundreds of participants, including students, scientists, and administrators from 28 states and territories receiving research funding from NSF EPSCoR.

October 10, 2024October 10, 2024

Guam EPSCoR students gearing up for SACNAS 2024

From corals to crabs, a group of Guam NSF EPSCoR students are preparing to present posters of their research at the 2024 Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) National Diversity in STEM (NDiSTEM) Conference.

The multi-disciplinary and multicultural event, scheduled for October 31 to November 2 in Phoenix, Arizona, aims to foster diversity in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

A total of 46 attendees from Guam, including 34 students, will be participating in the conference.

The students are supported by various grants and scholarships from the Guam NSF EPSCoR, NSF INCLUDES SEAS, Navigating Home, SLOAN, and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), as well as travel scholarships from SACNAS, Chapter Officer Leadership October Retreat (COLOR), and the Research Corporation of the University of Guam.

During the conference, the participants will attend workshops, present research, and connect with officials from schools nationwide for research experience opportunities.

Mya Ngemaes, a senior biology major, is one of the nine students supported by Guam NSF EPSCoR.

Her poster presentation focuses on the impact of heat stress on the respiration and photosynthetic efficiency of Guam’s dominant shallow corals, Acropora speciosa and Porites cylindrica.

Ngemaes conducted a tank experiment to simulate heat stress conditions and compare the performance of corals under both ambient and elevated temperatures.

“I’m really excited because this is the work that I have been doing for a whole year,” Ngemaes said. “Being able to talk about it to other people and sharing what we do here at UOG is something I feel super excited about.”

Daniel Urbano, majoring in applied biology, will present his research on true crabs and macroalgae on Guam.

“We have been surveying macroalgae (sargassum) in the Pago Bay reef flat outside Marine Lab. There are very few surveys done of this type, and more so, all have been done in temperate waters. Guam’s waters are tropical, and they are full of life. So, we are recording this biodiversity,” Urbano said.

Urbano looks forward to his first SACNAS presentation. “I haven’t presented anything in a conference this size. The biggest one that I had was the CIS (UOG Sustainability Conference) early this year. This is a huge step up basically.”

Nicole Pineda, a senior majoring in biology, is excited to attend the conference and meet new people from different STEM disciplines and backgrounds. She believes that the conference will provide opportunities for networking and learning. “It is nice to see and be part of a conference that is so diverse and has a lot of different cultural aspects to it,” she said.

Anela Duenas, a Guam NSF EPSCoR Graduate Research Assistant, participated in the SACNAS conference twice. This year, she is coming back as a lead for the NSF Guam EPSCoR students attending SACNAS.

“It feels nice to help other students go through things that I went through,” she said. “Cause I have now some knowledge – like how I can help them prepare. How can I help them be better during the conference.”

At the Near Peer orientation welcoming the student SACNAS delegation and their parents, UOG Senior Vice President and Provost Sharleen Santos Bamba emphasized the importance of the students’ participation in the conference. “SACNAS is an amazing opportunity,” she said. “You will be representatives of this institution. But larger than that, you will be representatives of the island.”

SACNAS was founded 51 years ago to foster the success of underrepresented Americans – from college students to professionals – in attaining advanced degrees, careers, and leadership positions in STEM.

March 11, 2024March 11, 2024

UOG’s 4th conservation corps boasts diverse lineup

Members of the 4th cohort of the Guam Green Growth (G3) Conservation Corps hold signs representing the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals. They are joined by UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant Director Austin Shelton, Ph.D., Lt. Gov. Joshua Tenorio, Senior Vice President and Provost Sharleen Santos Bamba, and UOG Global Learning and Engagement Director Carlos Taitano, MBA.

Members of the 4th cohort of the Guam Green Growth (G3) Conservation Corps pledge their commitment to protect the environment and promote sustainability at an event launching the new members on Tuesday, February 27th, at the UOG Global Learning and Engagement Building.

Guam Green Growth (G3) Conservation Corps member Hannah Perez, with a background in human resources, shares her motivation for joining the program at an event launching the new members on Tuesday, February 27th, at the UOG Global Learning and Engagement Building.

Guam Green Growth (G3) Conservation Corps member Tristan Quintanilla, a policy analyst for four years, shares his motivation for joining the program at an event launching the new members on Tuesday, February 27th, at the UOG Global Learning and Engagement Building.

What do an accountant, former on-air personality, architect, and a human resources professional have in common?

They are passionate about the future of our island and entered the newest cohort of the Guam Green Growth (G3) Conservation Corps, a workforce development program by the University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, and the G3 initiative.

Now on its 4^th cycle, the program introduced its 12 new members on Tuesday, February 27, at the UOG Global Learning and Engagement Building.

Addressing the new G3 Conservation Corps, UOG Senior Vice President and Provost Sharleen Santos Bamba, Ph.D. said, “You represent the next generation of environmental leaders. Your enthusiasm commitment, and thirst for knowledge inspire us all. The next five months will be a journey of discovery, hard work, and profound personal growth.”

Most members of the 4th cohort come from industries outside the environmental and conservation sectors. Some of them have already established careers in their respective fields but are interested in exploring opportunities within the emerging green economy. 

The members of the new G3 Conservation Corps are:

Nate Aguon (Barrigada)
Thomas Benavente (CNMI, Tamuning)
Makeo Blas (Mangilao)
Telel Blesam (Palau)
Jaevynn Cruz (Talo’fo’fo)
Rico Lizama (Yona)
Beato Manglona (Tamuning)
Jem Miller (Dededo)
Hannah Perez (Barrigada)
Tristan Quintanilla (Hågat)
Emma Sánchez (Dededo)
Loren Villanueva (Yigo)

At the event, the G3 Conservation Corps members shared their motivation for joining the program.

Quintanilla, a policy analyst for four years, stated, “I believe that this is a way to merge the past and the future. As a researcher, I would often look at problems, and search for solutions. However, I noticed a significant difference between learning about things and being able to practice them. So, I am looking forward to that.”

Perez, with a background in human resources, expressed, “Ever since I was younger, I’ve been passionate about addressing climate change because I know it directly impacts our island. Rising sea levels, and trash in the ocean, you see that every day.”

UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant Director Austin Shelton, Ph.D., told the new G3 Conservation Corps that diverse opportunities are available to graduates of the program. 

“Whether your interest lies in aquaculture, agriculture, or even nighttime efforts to catch brown tree snakes, there are immediate job openings in these areas. Many opportunities are available right here at the Research Corporation of the University of Guam, as well as through our various local and federal agency partners,” he said.

Shelton added that most of the members of the previous cohorts had achieved success in pursuing their aspirations after the program. “Over 70 percent of our graduates have transitioned into green jobs or have chosen further training, all closely aligned with the green economy.”

Throughout the five-month program, the G3 Conservation Corps will undergo training and gain exposure in various sustainability-related areas, including agriculture and aquaculture, island beautification, invasive species removal, reforestation, circular economy practices, recycling, and renewable energy. 

They will also have the opportunity to engage with diverse environmental organizations and initiatives on Guam and the rest of the Micronesia region.  

After completing the program, the G3 Conservation Corps will earn up to 80 continuing education units (CEUs) from UOG Global Learning and Engagement.

The first G3 Conservation Corps program  was launched in 2021.

WHAT IS G3?  

The UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant facilitates the  Guam Green Growth, or G3 initiative, in cooperation with the Office of the Governor of Guam and the G3 Working Group, whose members represent all sectors of society. With the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals and G3 Action Framework as a guide, G3 develops tangible solutions to sustainability challenges and contributes to a green economy for the island region.

February 25, 2024March 6, 2024

Young entrepreneurs receive mentorship from G3 Makerspace

Prikura Guahan President Yang Wang and team members Jerrick Palomares, Harry Vitae, and Eric Kwan showcase the latte-stone-shaped stamp and inkpad set they crafted using locally sourced wood and invasive bamboo. The team created the product for the 2023-2024 JA Company of the Year Competition using equipment from the G3 Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub (Photo credit: UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant)

Prikura Guahan’s latte-stone-shaped stamp and inkpad set crafted from locally sourced wood and invasive bamboo. G3 Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub has been actively involved in assisting Junior Achievement Guam teams such as Prikura (Preserve) Guahan in crafting products for the annual JA Company of the Year Competition Hub (Photo credit: UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant)

The Guam Green Growth (G3) Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub (G3 Makerspace) opened its doors to Junior Achievement (JA) Guam teams as they prepared for a competition for young entrepreneurs.

JA is a non-profit organization dedicated to educating students about work readiness, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy through experiential, hands-on programs.

In February of this year, the non-profit held the 2023-2024 JA Company of the Year Competition at the Guam Community College in Mangilao to recognize these young entrepreneurs and their innovative products.

Each year, G3 Makerspace has been actively involved in assisting JA teams such as Prikura (Preserve) Guahan, whose members consist of students from Harvest Christian Academy and St. John’s School.

In December, Prikura Guahan attended mentorship sessions and workshops focused on using the cutting-edge equipment at the G3 Makerspace. At the end of the sessions, Prikura Guahan used the G3 Makerspace equipment to turn locally sourced wood and invasive bamboo into a latte-stone-shaped stamp and inkpad set for the competition.

“The reason why we chose the stamp is because we wanted to show how invasive bamboo is to Guam. So, for our inkpads, we used invasive species bamboo to make the ink itself,” said Yang Wang, Harvest Christian Academy student and Prikura Guahan president.

The team engraved positive messages such as ‘good work’ and ‘hafa adai’ into the latte stone-shaped stamps. “For the stamp, we used locally sourced wood and laser-cutting and wood-cutting machines to create the (latte stone) shape and laser-engraved parts,” she added.

Wang credits G3 Makerspace and Innovation Hub coordinator Abby Crain for providing guidance in the production process. Wang said Crain suggested using charcoalized and crushed invasive bamboo for the inkpads.

“We assist the teams however we can — whether mentoring, counseling, consulting on materials to use, packaging, and even during conceptualization. We also help them develop and find the most cost-effective ways for production,” Crain said on the range of assistance provided by G3 Makerspace to Prikura Guahan and other JA teams.

“We have a partnership with Junior Achievement. Our (Makerspace’s) mission is to promote circular economy and sustainability, and we also aim to promote local production and utilize the plethora of resources available on Guam. We encourage people to buy local instead of importing, and we want to help business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs,” Crain added.

According to a release from JA, 146 high school students joined this year’s competition, with nine student companies stepping up to the challenge. Companies such as Graphic Center, Title Guaranty of Guam, GTA, Dusit Thani Resort Guam, Bank of Hawaii, and Community First Guam provided support to the student teams.