Education Workforce Development

November 17, 2025November 17, 2025

UOG students earn national recognition at 2025 SACNAS NDiSTEM Conference

The University of Guam delegation stands tall at the SACNAS NDiSTEM conference in Columbus, Ohio. The group consisted of grant funded staff and students in STEM, many of whom that presented their research, at the largest diversity in STEM conference in the country.

Guam NSF EPSCoR and UOG Marine Lab student Napu Camacho presents his research at the SACNAS NDiSTEM conference in Columbus, Ohio. Camacho was one of the twelve UOG students who submitted abstracts and were selected to present at the national conference. His research looked to explore Guam’s marine fish diversity through environmental DNA analysis.

Amongst the hundreds of presenters at SACNAS NDiSTEM, three UOG students Azer Bilimon, Archancel Abellera and Cameron San Agustin were recognized for their presentations overall. All three students are participants in the NSF INCLUDES SEAS Programs at the University of Guam in partnership with the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant.

The University of Guam strengthened its presence in STEM (Science Technology Engineering & Mathematics) at the 2025 Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) National Diversity in STEM (NDiSTEM) Conference, where three UOG students earned national recognition for their research presentations.

UOG School of Engineering student Azer Bilimon received the Native American/Indigenous Student Research Abstract Award, while Archancel Abellera and Cameron San Agustin received Outstanding Research Presentation awards.

Continuing its strong participation in SACNAS, UOG sent a 28-member delegation—17 of them students—to this year’s conference including Lt. Governor Joshua Tenorio, who serves as a co-principal investigator for NSF Navigating Home and was the keynote speaker. The nation’s largest multicultural and multidisciplinary STEM event took place in Columbus, Ohio, gathering researchers and students from across the United States and its territories.

Cheryl Sangueza, Ph.D., a co-principal investigator of the NSF INCLUDES SEAS and NSF Navigating Home grants, and the head of student experience for Guam NSF EPSCoR, has led several months of preparation for students representing UOG at the conference.

“All EPSCoR and SEAS INCLUDES students who submitted an abstract were accepted to present and everyone smashed it,” exclaimed Sangueza. “SACNAS, where students present their research, network, meet phenomenal and inspiring scientists, and explore next step opportunities, is a key experience in the pathway to graduate school and for career decisions.”

Sangueza along with her capacity building team, who work across the NSF grants, UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant (UOG CIS & Sea Grant) and Guam Green Growth coordinate with students from the high school to graduate levels across various programs designed to increase success in STEM fields.

“As a past SACNAS Chapter of the Year, the University of Guam continues to advance island-based research and scientific voices from across Micronesia,” said Austin Shelton, Ph.D., director of the UOG CIS & Sea Grant. “We are proud that three of our students earned recognition at this year’s SACNAS NDiSTEM Conference. Their work reflects UOG’s growing community of locally trained scientists who address climate and biodiversity challenges through island knowledge and innovation.”

Award Winning Presentations

Bilimon presented “Evaluating the Mechanical and Sustainable Benefits of Fibrous Reinforcement in Seawater and Freshwater Mortar Mixtures.” Under the mentorship of Ernesto J. Guades, Ph.D., Bilimon studied how adding coconut fibers affects the strength and sustainability of mortar. The project was inspired by the resource challenges that island communities such as Guam and the Marshall Islands face.

Bilimon tested different fiber types, lengths, and amounts using a standard cement-sand-water mix to measure compressive strength. His research demonstrates how reusing waste materials—such as glass and discarded coconut shells—can reduce waste and support sustainable construction. By using seawater instead of freshwater, the study also addresses water scarcity and promotes eco-friendly building materials that reflect Indigenous knowledge and environmental sustainability in Pacific Island communities.

Abellera presented “Preserving Endangered Orchids in the Marianas: Propagation Techniques for Species Recovery.” Her research focuses on conserving Dendrobium guamense, an endangered orchid found only in the Marianas. To support recovery efforts, Abellera tested two propagation methods—division and stem cuttings—to identify the most effective approach for replanting and conservation.

San Agustin presented “Exploring Propagation Techniques for Conservation of Myrtella bennigseniana, a Native Savanna Shrub.” His study examined how to improve the propagation of Myrtella bennigseniana, a native shrub that helps restore Guam’s savanna ecosystems threatened by land development and habitat loss.

Else Demeulenaere, Ph.D., associate director for natural resources at the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, mentored both Abellera and San Agustin.

“The research presented by our students at the SACNAS NDiSTEM Conference speaks to their talent, hard work, and the strength of their academic preparation,” said UOG President Anita Borja Enriquez, DBA. “Their success reinforces our mission to empower students to advance science that serves island communities and inspires regional progress.”

For more than five decades, SACNAS has promoted diversity and inclusion in STEM by supporting students and professionals in pursuing advanced degrees, building careers, and contributing to their communities through science.

October 23, 2025November 17, 2025

Guam Green Growth Makerspace to hold weaving and laser engraver workshops to close out October

Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub technician Justin Cruz works with attendees of a laser engraver workshop at the CHamoru Village campus. The group will host another laser engraver workshop to close out October's training schedule.

Participants in a weaving workshop at the Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub learn the CHamoru Skills of creation with the coconut leaves. A katupat weaving workshop, compete with celebratory kadu, will be help this month at the CHamoru Village campus.

The University of Guam’s Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub has announced two workshops to be hosted at their CHamoru Village campus showcasing both cultural knowledge and high-tech innovation.

Fiber Laser Engraver Workshop

The fiber laser engraver workshop, to be held on Thursday, October 23rd from 5pm to 7:30pm, is geared toward the future of local entrepreneurship and design.

This modern, technical training will introduce attendees to the sophisticated world of fiber laser engraving, a process used for permanent marking and customization on materials like metals, plastics, and various industrial components. This skill is highly sought after in modern fabrication, manufacturing, and personalized gift industries.

“The workshop is perfect for designers, small business owners looking to expand their product offerings, or anyone interested in learning how to operate powerful, precision technology,” explained G3 Makerspace Coordinator Emily Wendte. “Mastering this tool provides a direct pathway into high-value, digitally driven production.”

Finanåguen Tinifok Katupat Weaving Workshop with Kadu

On the other end of the maker spectrum this weaving workshop, which will be held on Thursday, October 30th from 5pm to 7:30pm, focuses on the art of weaving the katupat, a diamond-shaped pouch traditionally woven from coconut leaves to hold rice. More than just a craft, tinifok (weaving) is a vital part of CHamoru heritage, blending sustainability with a functional art form.

Led by CHamoru weaver Martha Tenorio, the workshop provides hands-on instruction in this generational skill. It is a powerful chance for attendees to actively engage in cultural preservation, ensuring this traditional knowledge and the intricate, natural beauty of katupat continue to thrive.

According to Abby Crain the G3 Circular Economy Coordinator, along with the weaving showcase, participants will be treated to some kadu, or CHamoru Stew, to eat with the rice cooked in the katupat.

These two events highlight a strong community focus on holistic development. By valuing the knowledge passed down through generations—like the weaving of the katupat—while simultaneously developing modern digital manufacturing skills, the island community builds a resilient, prosperous, and culturally secure future.

Interested participants are encouraged to secure their spots soon as capacity is limited for these specialized sessions. Registration can be completed digitally at https://www.eventbrite.com/o/guam-green-growth-circular-economy-makerspace and more information about the G3 Makerspace is available at guamgreengrowth.org.

October 10, 2025October 21, 2025

UOG’s G3 Makerspace hosts 3D printing workshop that connects goals with skills

Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub’s Shawn Garcia recently led a 3D Printing workshop at the group’s CHamoru Village location. The workshop is the latest from the G3 Makerspace that aims to bring the benefits of 3D printing and additive manufacturing to local makers and business owners.

The Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub hosts regular workshops in their space in Hagåtña which include 3D printing, weaving, textiles, sewing, laser cutting and more. Full workshop schedules can be found on guamgreengrowth.org.

UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant Research Education and Extension Fellow Napu Blas assists during the workshop at the G3 Makerspace. The 3D printing workshop welcomed participants from many age groups including students and local makers.

The University of Guam’s Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub (G3 Makerspace) recently hosted a 3D Printing Workshop, offering the community hands-on experience with cutting-edge additive manufacturing technology. The event was a part of the G3 Sustainable September lineup, a month-long series dedicated to promoting environmental stewardship and achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on the island.

The workshop, designed to introduce participants to the fundamentals of 3D modeling and prototyping, demonstrated how this technology fits into the island’s circular economy model. Attendees learned how digital design translates into physical objects, exploring the process from conceptualization to the final print. This practical knowledge empowers participants to create functional items while minimizing waste.

The session was led by Shawn Garcia, who guided attendees through the use of the G3 Makerspace’s specialized equipment. Garcia emphasized the potential of 3D printing to utilize recycled materials, aligning directly with the G3 Makerspace’s mission to transform waste streams into valuable resources. The workshop highlighted the Makerspace’s commitment to building a local green workforce capable of driving innovation.

“Events like this 3D printing workshop are really important because they bridge the gap between the sustainability goals and tangible, actionable skills,” said Garcia. “By teaching and sharing these skills, we are working to grow a community of creators who can develop local solutions for local challenges.”

The G3 Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub, located in the CHamoru Village, serves as a resource center for entrepreneurs, artisans, and students looking to integrate circular practices into their work, further strengthening Guam’s commitment to a more prosperous and sustainable future.

Monthly workshop schedules are available along with registration access at www.guamgreengrowth.org and on the G3 Makerspace’s official Instagram @guamgreengrowthmakerspace.

August 4, 2025August 4, 2025

Tulane University biodiversity researchers visit Guam EPSCoR Biorepository, conduct workshops

TUBRI Senior Manager of Biodiversity Informatics Yasin Bakiş, Ph.D. discussing fish landmarks during his presentation.

Guam NSF EPSCoR Biorepository Research Associate Dave Burdick during the visit with TUBRI.

Hank Bart, Ph.D., Director of TUBRI, during his visit with the Guam NSF EPSCoR Biorepository Team.

Biorepository Assistant Professor Curator of Crustacea Rob Lasley, Ph.D., during the TUBRI workshop discussions.

TUBRI's Dr. Bakiş in discussion with the Guam EPSCoR Biorepository team during his visit.

Scientists from Tulane University’s Biodiversity Research Institute (TUBRI) collaborated with the University of Guam NSF EPSCoR Biorepository in April, leading a series of workshops focused on biodiversity technologies.

Hank Bart, Ph.D., director of TUBRI and professor of ecology and evolutionary biology and Yasin Bakiş, Ph.D. senior manager of biodiversity informatics, covered TUBRI-developed technologies, including the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in processing biological data and fish collection management software. The two TUBRI scientists also toured the university facilities.

“We do biodiversity informatics research and a lot of it is technology for how you can study organisms or infrastructure that you need to store data about organisms – databases, things like that,” said Bart.

“So what we hoped is that there’ll be opportunities to work together for setting up a database for collections, collections in the bio-repository but also other kind of technology they would need,” he added.

Bakiş agreed and added that one motivation for visiting with other institutions is the ability to collaborate in order to develop tools that can be used by other researchers.

“Rather than give them a presentation about what we are doing, it is like brainstorming actually,” said Bakiş, noting that their presentations usually include a lot of time for questions and discussions. “So when we go back home, we bring all those questions with us and we improve our tools and our information systems. It helps a lot.”

One of the main topics of the workshops was Imageomics, a new field of study that involves AI and machine learning to extract biological information directly from images that can turn collections of photographs into databases about organisms and provide insights on many areas of biological research. This has the potential for many uses including species identification, understanding morphology and enumerating samples of microscopic orgasms such as diatoms.

Following the visit Dave Burdick, Guam NSF EPSCoR Biorepository research associate, said he is interested in the potential benefits of utilizing machine learning for biodiversity research and working on ensuring Biorepository data is ready for AI applications. He believes that establishing and continuing a relationship with TUBRI can help improve the processing of Biorepository specimen data for these purposes.

“By making sure tropical western Pacific fish species are represented in images and data sets that train AI algorithms we can increase the effectiveness of those AI tools for the species in our waters,” said Burdick. “Ultimately, making our images and specimen data more ‘AI ready’ will help make the AI tools more useful for us down the road, as those AI tools will likely allow small teams like ours increase the scope and efficiency of regionally focused biodiversity research.”

Due to the rich variety of organisms found in our region, the Guam NSF EPSCoR Biorepository is home to thousands of specimens of marine organisms – many of which are still being identified to this day.

“In high diversity areas like the Mariana Islands there is much to be discovered, and much to learn about the species already reported here,” said Burdick, “so we’re always looking for ways to do the work more efficiently and effectively.”

Through this blossoming relationship with TUBRI, it is possible that developing technology may be used in the future to help identify organisms and organize data to more easily make that information accessible to the public.

July 23, 2025August 4, 2025

UOG Biorepository, Marine Lab and NAVFAC host sea sponge workshop

Participants of the UOG Marine Lab & NAVFAC Porifera workshop gather after a sea sponge specimen collecting session.

The University of Guam Marine Laboratory and Guam NSF EPSCoR Biorepository conducted a two-day workshop focused on Porifera—commonly known as sea sponges—bringing together researchers, students and marine professionals for hands-on learning and fieldwork.

Held on May 29 and 30, and conducted in partnership with the Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC), the workshop detailed the diversity of Porifera species in Guam’s waters, specifically in Apra Harbor. Participants learned basic taxonomy methods used by sponge biologists and also took part in an off-site specimen collection session.

The workshop’s main presentation was delivered by Jan Vicente, Ph.D., a researcher at the University of Hawaiʻi Manoa’s ToBo Lab, and Gustav Paulay, Ph.D., professor of biology at the University of Florida. Having researched sponges in Hawaiʻi for a decade, Vicente discovered similarities between sponge species found in Guam harbors and that of those in Hawaiʻi.

“It’s kind of crucial to have taxonomy workshops at local scales so that we can standardize the methods that we use in different places,” Vicente explains.

Following the presentation, participants of the workshop learned common sponge identification practices using in-person samples. “Some had never seen a sponge before and they went from never seeing a sponge before to identifying different spicule types, to carrying field descriptions as best as possible,” said Vicente.

Spicules are structural elements of a sponge made from calcium carbonate or silica that serve as their skeleton and are major factors in differentiating sponge species.

The workshop went outdoors for its second day as the researchers and participants conducted a sponge specimen collection session. The group convened at Outhouse Beach, a popular scuba-diving spot in close vicinity to Apra Harbor, and spent the morning collecting numerous specimens for identification and categorization back at the UOG Marine Lab. Once they returned to campus, the rest of the afternoon was used for identifying, photographing, and labeling these specimens before they head to storage in the Biorepository.

During a NOAA cruise to Guam in 2017, Vicente collected fresh porifera specimens to use in DNA comparisons against specimens found in Hawaiʻi. These comparisons confirmed to him that the same species of Porifera can be found both in Guam and Hawaiʻi. Through this discovery, Paulay connected Vicente with Robert Lasley, Ph.D., assistant professor and curator of crustacea at the UOG Biorepository, and the group concluded that a sponge workshop held on Guam would be significantly beneficial.

“It was a great opportunity to bring my knowledge from the harbors in Hawaiʻi, because a lot of the species that we find here and the harbors here are found in Hawaiʻi as well, and it’d be interesting to see what are the vectors involved in distributing those species,” Vicente stated.

He also cited the Marine Lab’s access to running seawater and its variety of scientific instruments specializing in studying sponge morphology as reasons to have the workshop here on Guam.

The workshop itself proved to be a success in Vicente’s eyes. Research compounded from years of surveys up until this very workshop has shown the team that local species of Porifera are part of an even bigger species complex originating all the way out from Singapore.

“These specimens that are sitting in museums right now from the ‘90s might be able to yield enough DNA to provide good sequences, but these fresh specimens that have been collected now are going to create even better data because sequencing technology now is amazing,” Vicente said.

Regarding what comes next after the workshop, Vicente hopes that in the next couple of years, there will be a better understanding of the species—providing not only insight into the workshop’s objectives, but also into the evolutionary history of these organisms, what drives them, how they speciate, and how they are connected across the Pacific archipelagos.

On Thursday, May 29 and Friday, May 30, 2025, researchers and students alike gathered at the University of Guam Marine Lab for a Porifera (sea sponge) workshop.

Conducted by the UOG Marine Lab and NAVFAC, the workshop detailed the diversity of porifera species in our local waters, specifically in Apra Harbor. Participants were educated on basic porifera taxonomy methods used by sponge biologists and also took part in an off-site specimen collection session.

The workshop’s main presentation was delivered by Jan Vicente, Ph.D., researcher at the University of Hawaii, Manoa’s ToBo Lab, and Gustav Paulay, Ph.D., professor of Biology at the University of Florida. Having researched sponges in Hawaii for a decade, Vicente discovered similiarities between sponge species found in Guam harbors and that of those in Hawaii. “It’s kind of crucial to have taxonomy workshops at local scales so that we can standardize the methods that we use in different places”, Vicente explains.

Following the presentation, participants of the workshop were taught common sponge identification practices using in-person samples. “Some had never seen a sponge before and they went from never seeing a sponge before to identifying different spicule types, to carrying field descriptions as best as possible”, said Vicente. Spicules are structural elements of a sponge made from calcium carbonate or silica that serve as their skeleton and are major factors in differentiating sponge species.

EPSCoR 20250529 PoriferaWorkshop 125 — *Jan Vicente, Ph.D., researcher at the University of Hawaii, Manoa’s ToBo Lab, demonstrates basic sea sponge identification methods through a microscope.*

During a NOAA cruise to Guam in 2017, Vicente collected fresh porifera specimens to use in DNA comparisons against specimens found in Hawaii. These comparisons confirmed to him that the same species of porifera can be found both in Guam and Hawaii. Through this discovery, Paulay connected Vicente with Robert Lasley, Ph.D., Assistant Professor and Curator of Crustacea at the UOG Biorepository, and the group concluded that a sponge workshop held on Guam would be significantly beneficial.

“It was a great opportunity to bring my knowledge from the harbors in Hawaii, because a lot of the species that we find here and the harbors here are found in Hawaii as well, and it’d be interesting to see what are the vectors involved in distributing those species,” Vicente stated. He also cited the Marine Lab’s access to running seawater and its variety of scientific instruments specializing in studying sponge morphology as reasons to have the workshop here on Guam.

EPSCoR 20250529 PoriferaWorkshop 175 1 — *The workshop participants begin the classification process following a morning of sea sponge specimen collection near Apra Harbor.*

The workshop itself proved to be a success in Vicente’s eyes. Research compounded from years of surveys up until this very workshop has shown the team that local species of porifera are part of an even bigger species complex originating all the way out from Singapore. “These specimens that are sitting in museums right now from the ‘90s might be able to yield enough DNA to provide good sequences, but these fresh specimens that have been collected now are going to create even better data because sequencing technology now is amazing,” Vicente explains.

In regards to what is to follow after the workshop, Vicente hopes that “in the next couple of years, we’ll have a better understanding of what the species are, which is going to provide not only information about the objectives of the workshop, but also the evolutionary history of these organisms, what drives them, how they speciate, and how are things connected around the archipelagos in the in the Pacific”.

July 8, 2025August 8, 2025

UOG School of Engineering research at G3 Makerspace explores plastic as construction material

Ernesto Guades, Ph.D., an assistant professor at the University of Guam School of Engineering, works with COMPASS NextGen undergraduate interns to prepare a plastic lumber prototype using an extruder machine at the Guam Green Growth (G3) Circular Economy Makerspace & Innovation Hub.

Ernesto Guades, Ph.D., an assistant professor at the University of Guam School of Engineering, heats the plastic mold attached to the extruder machine. He is conducting a research project at the Guam Green Growth (G3) Circular Economy Makerspace & Innovation Hub exploring how certain types of recyclable plastic can be prototyped into commercial-grade plastic lumber.

The research project involves using the shredder and extruder machines at the Guam Green Growth (G3) Circular Economy Makerspace & Innovation Hub to prototype commercial-grade plastic lumber from recyclable plastic, shredded into small components like the one shown above.

The Guam Green Growth (G3) Circular Economy Makerspace & Innovation Hub is collaborating with Ernesto Guades, Ph.D., an assistant professor at the University of Guam School of Engineering, on a research project exploring how certain types of recyclable plastic can be prototyped into construction materials.

According to Guades, the project received funding through the Pacific Regional Integrated Sciences and Assessments (Pacific RISA) Economic Valuation of the G3 Initiative. Guam NSF EPSCoR is a catalyst for Guam Green Growth.

The broader goal of the economic valuation is to assess and quantify the economic impact and return on investment of the G3 initiative, including components such as the G3 Makerspace & Innovation Hub and the G3 Conservation Corps workforce development program.

“We are working on projects on sustainable materials, particularly plastics,” Guades said. “They provided some seed funds to study how we can convert recycled plastics into materials that can be used in construction.”

The project, which began in January, focuses on creating plastic lumber using specific types of recyclable plastic. While plastic lumber is commercially available, Guades said they are usually costly and limited in application.

“The strength of what we found is comparable to what is commercially available,” he said. “We would like to make it affordable so the result is quite comparative,” Guades said.

Initially, Guades used polypropylene, also known as Type 5 plastic, which is commonly found in food containers. With promising results, the research is now entering a second phase, which expands both the scope of materials and the scale of production.

“Previously, we only studied one type of plastic—Type 5, which is polypropylene. So, what we are doing now in the next stage is we try to also cover the other types of plastic,” he said. “We are now going to Type 2, which is called high-density polyethylene.”

This next phase includes combining—or hybridizing—different types of plastics to evaluate their combined strength and usability.

“We try to combine them … and find out what’s the effect. Whether we can include them as one or we can separate them,” he said.

All fabrication and prototyping are being done at the G3 Makerspace & Innovation Hub using specialized equipment, including a shredder and an extruder machine.

The shredder breaks down plastic waste into smaller flakes, making it easier to process. The extruder melts the shredded plastic and pushes it through a mold to create new products.

Guades is also working with the COMPASS NextGen grant program to engage six undergraduate intern researchers over the summer. Some of these students, from the UOG School of Engineering, are conducting hands-on work at the G3 Makerspace, assisting with the operation of the shredder and extruder, and researching plastic combinations to achieve the right balance of Type 2 and Type 5 plastic for strong, commercial-grade plastic lumber.

The project also aims to create larger sample sizes that could be tested in practical construction scenarios.

“Because now we have limited sections—only very small—we would like to make a bigger section so that we can apply that in several applications,” Guades said.

Potential uses include bridge and housing construction. “Well, it is for plastic lumber. This can actually replace timber or wood. But we would like to do more than that. So, the applications will be for bridges or maybe for structural components of houses. So that’s the target,” he added.

“This is based on the initial experience that we have—it’s promising,” he said. “We are getting a comparable result and even better than what is available commercially.”

The Guam NSF EPSCoR program and the G3 Makerspace are connected through their shared mission to advance sustainability and innovation in Guam.

Guam NSF EPSCoR supports research and workforce development in STEM fields that feed directly into the initiatives at the G3 Makerspace. With collaborative projects like this one with the UOG School of Engineering, researchers and students transform scientific knowledge into sustainable products and technologies, helping to drive Guam’s green economy forward.

July 8, 2025July 9, 2025

Guam Green Growth reports regional and local initiatives at July meeting

UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant Director Austin Shelton, Ph.D., and Lt. Gov. Josh Tenorio facilitate the July Guam Green Growth (G3) Steering Committee. At the meeting, G3 working groups share updates that feed into the island-wide action framework dashboard.

Members of the Guam Green Growth (G3) Steering Committee working groups highlight progress on local and regional initiatives supporting the 17 U.N. Sustainable Development Goals, including a new Green Growth hub and a watershed restoration workforce program.

At the July Guam Green Growth (G3) Steering Committee meeting, members highlighted progress toward the 17 U.N. Sustainable Development Goals—both locally and regionally—including the launch of a new Green Growth hub in Micronesia and a watershed restoration workforce initiative that expands the G3 Conservation Corps.

One of the highlights described by Austin Shelton, Ph.D., director of the University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant and co-chair of the G3 Steering Committee, was the plan to unveil the Marshall Islands Green Growth initiative at the 27th Micronesian Islands Forum held this month in Majuro.

Marshall Islands President Hilda Heine, Ed.D., first expressed the commitment to start their own Green Growth hub back in April.

“During our conference on Island Sustainability, that the Governor co-chaired with the University of Guam President Enriquez back in April, there was a commitment that President Heine made to launch Green Growth in the Marshall Islands — that is coming to fruition this week and we are really excited for them to build on that,” Shelton said.

According to Shelton, to lay the foundation for the Marshall Islands’ hub, the G3 team—alongside Hawai‘i Green Growth and the Local2030 Islands Network—has been helping develop their dashboard and supporting grant-writing efforts to establish a circular economy makerspace.

Another major announcement at the steering committee meeting was the creation of the G3 Guam Restoration of Watersheds (GROW) Corps—a program focused on watershed restoration. During the program, members will work closely with the UOG Sea Grant GROW team and the Guam Department of Agriculture’s (Guam DoAg)

Division of Forestry and Soil Resources. “That’s for six months. That’s going to be more jobs and more trained individuals to go into our green workforce,” Shelton said.

Under the leadership of UOG and the Governor’s Office, G3 working groups also shared local initiatives under different action categories contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. These achievements are integrated into the G3 action framework dashboard to monitor island-wide progress.

The reports included the following highlights:

Healthy and Prosperous Communities: Guam DoAg helped develop the first regional Pacific Food and Agriculture Strategy through partnerships with the SPC and other island nations. Guam’s Forest System Plan has been adopted and includes the designation of green spaces and conservation areas. The department is now developing rules and regulations to support its implementation.
Educated, Capable, and Compassionate Island: The GCA Trades Academy reported plans to launch the first maritime courses on Guam and to create airline industry training programs. Meanwhile, the working group also reported the groundbreaking of a new campus of the Northern Marianas Technical Institute in Saipan this month.
Sustainable Homes, Utilities, and Transportation: The Guam Energy Office received a $1.5 million Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant for improvements in government-owned buildings. Projects include installing solar panels, outdoor solar LED lighting in selected parks, and working with mayors to identify other public lighting locations.
Sustainable Alliances: Guam has reaffirmed its request for a UN visiting mission during the UN C-24 (Special Committee on Decolonization) Pacific Regional Seminar in March 2025, according to Melvin Won Pat-Borja, executive director of the Guam Commission on Decolonization. He said the C-24 has adopted a resolution that reflects this request.
Thriving Natural Resources: The GROW team planted over 5,000 trees in Ugum last year, according to Fran Castro, associate director for operations and development at UOG Sea Grant. Also, UOG Sea Grant and Guam DoAg, Division of Aquatic and Wildlife Resources held a series of fisheries stakeholder meetings across the island, where they shared and gathered community feedback on proposed fishery management measures, including size limits, mandatory licensing and catch reporting, ban on the harvesting of atuhong (bumphead parrot fish), ban on commercial sale of six species, and limiting night time spear fishing.

After the reporting, Shelton acknowledged the efforts of the working groups, saying, “Thank you to all of you, our G3 working group, for all the amazing work that you are doing. It is being tracked in our Guam Green Growth dashboard, and I think the world is really taking notice of that.”

Shelton also mentioned that Guam was recently featured by the American Leadership on the SDGs—an initiative led by the UN Foundation and the Brookings Institution’s Center for Sustainable Development that recognizes individuals and communities advancing the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals.

June 30, 2025June 30, 2025

Students board the Nautilus vessel before Marianas Trench expedition

SeaGrant 20250505 EVNautilusTour 78 1024x683 1

Students from the University of Guam’s (UOG) National Science Foundation Inclusion across the Nation of Communities of Learners of Underrepresented Discoverers in Engineering and Science (INCLUDES), Navigating Home and Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR) programs recently embarked on an extraordinary journey of scientific discovery, touring the state-of-the-art research vessel, Nautilus Live. This unique opportunity provided future island scientists with an invaluable firsthand look into cutting-edge ocean exploration and research.

The three capacity building programs operate of out the UOG and are dedicated to broadening participation and fostering STEM education and aims to empower the next generation of marine and environmental scientists. The tour of Nautilus Live perfectly aligns with this mission, offering a tangible connection to the deep-sea research that shapes our understanding of the ocean.

Franki Guerrero of the UOG Capacity Building Team works closely with the students through their journeys and fellowships.

“I enjoyed seeing the students have a chance to really visualize the kind of science that is at work around our region,” said Guerrero. “They are taking away a lot of great information and inspiration from this tour.”

Operated by the Ocean Exploration Trust (OET), Nautilus Live is renowned for its telepresence-enabled expeditions, allowing scientists and the public worldwide to participate in real-time deep-sea exploration. The vessel is equipped with advanced remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and mapping systems, enabling the discovery and documentation of new marine species, geological formations, and historical artifacts on the seafloor. The vessel will be conducting an expedition to the nearby Marianas Trench.

During their immersive tour, UOG students explored various sections of the vessel, including the control room where ROVs are piloted, the data labs where scientific observations are processed, and the communication hubs that transmit live feeds from the ocean depths. They had the chance to interact with the ship’s crew and scientists, gaining insights into the diverse careers available in oceanography and marine science.

The visit to Nautilus Live underscores the University of Guam’s commitment to providing its students with unique, impactful learning experiences that extend beyond the traditional classroom setting. By connecting with leading global research initiatives like the Ocean Exploration Trust, UOG continues to cultivate a capable and engaged workforce ready to address the pressing environmental challenges facing island communities.

May 6, 2025May 6, 2025

Reflections on the 2024 Guam NSF EPSCoR Summer Math Research Program

(L-R): Dr. Leslie Aquino, Carlo Tapia, Joanna Laguana, Yoonji Seo, Sean McManus, Dr. Hyunju Oh, and Dr. Bastian Bentlage at the 2024 SMRP Student Showcase.

Joanna Laguana working on her project during the 2024 Summer Math Research Program.

2024 SMRP students discussing their project.

2024 SMRP student Sean McManus presenting their group's findings at the 2024 SACNAS National Diversity in STEM Conference.

2024 SMRP student Yoonji Seo presents her research findings at the 2024 SACNAS National Diversity in STEM Conference.

Guam NSF EPSCoR research program students Sean McManus, Sean Pascua, Sam Wheaton (Research Assistant), Carlo Tapia, Joanna Laguana and Yoonji Seo.

As EPSCoR prepares for its fifth year of the Summer Math Research Program (SMRP), we take a look back at our 2024 program and its students.

The SMRP is an eight-week opportunity for students interested in STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics) careers to engage in mathematical research. There are two components to the program: (1) the Summer Math Research Assistant program, in which students will work with a faculty member on existing projects, and (2) the Summer Math Research Experience program, in which small groups will collaborate on a project to explore the applications of mathematics toward research questions.

In 2024, Summer Math Research Experience (SMRE) students Carlo Tapia, Joanna Laguana, Yoonji Seo, Sean Pascua and Sean McManus developed a mathematical model to investigate how corals change after transplantation by analyzing the different bacterial communities present within the coral at different points in time. Guided by the program’s mentors, including Leslie Aquino, PhD, chair of the UOG Division of Mathematics and Computer Science and Bastian Bentlage, PhD, an associate professor of bioinformatics and co-principal investigator for research at Guam NSF EPSCoR, their project “An Analysis of Coral Transplantation and Bacterial Networks on Guam” contributes to the understanding of the island’s coral reefs and what influences their health and resilience.

Despite coming from different UOG programs – including math, business and biology – the students were able to bond quickly and developed an effective dynamic to accomplish their research project.

“In a way, we just balance each other,” said Pascua during the 2024 program, noting that the group made sure to allow each other to experience different aspects of the research they might have not before.

“We don’t want anyone to focus on being in one role for too long,” agreed McManus. “We want everyone to have experience in each role, whether it’s the writing, the research or the math part. I think we all just want to grow and ensure that we make the most out of this program.”

Fortunately, they were successful in this effort and were all able to learn more about tackling research from different perspectives. Their teamwork and project demonstrated that both biology and mathematics have a role to play in this type of research, with the use of each field strengthening the other.

“In biology, you can only use tentative language and inferences,” said Laguana, a biology student who learned how to tackle research with a more analytical approach through the program. “It takes a while for theories to become laws in comparisons to math. When you go through the motions and are able to successfully complete it, then you can say it’s a proof in a way that’s more concrete than inferences are.”

Because of the program, Laguana believes that the use of mathematical models can help supply more concrete evidence to help strengthen conservation efforts.

“I think our EPSCoR summer program has done really well at exposing our students to marine biology and things they might not have done normally,” said Aquino following the close of the program. “It gives them a chance to do real math research that’s relevant to Guam and our region. Some students really enjoy that aspect.”

Along with giving students a new understanding and experience in the mathematical research process, Aquino also noted that many students who have participated in the SMRP have gone on to graduate school and other STEM opportunities. In fact, students from the 2024 program, were able to present their research at the Society for the Advancement of Chicanos and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) National Diversity in STEM (NDiSTEM) Conference – the largest diversity conference in the United States.

Applications are open now for this year’s Summer Math Research Program. Students and students who are interested in gaining this type of experience can apply to by Friday, May 9. Participants will receive a stipend for participating in the program.

More information and applications can be found at the links below!

For sophomores
& juniors

For Seniors & Graduates

April 24, 2025April 24, 2025

UOG opens applications for summer math programs

$The Guam NSF EPSCoR Summer Math programs are open for applications. The Summer Math Research Assistant and Summer Math Research Experience is open for students from Sophomore, Junior, Senior and Graduate levels.$

The University of Guam (UOG) has exciting summer research opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students passionate about mathematics through two distinct programs supported by the National Science Foundation Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (Guam NSF EPSCoR). Applications are now being accepted for both the Summer Math Research Assistant and the Summer Math Research Experience programs.

These programs offer a unique chance for motivated students to engage in cutting-edge mathematical research under the guidance of UOG faculty. Participants will gain invaluable hands-on experience, develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and contribute to ongoing research projects with real-world applications.

Summer Math Research Assistant Program:
This program is open for college seniors and recent graduates looking to immerse themselves deeply in a specific research area. Summer Math Research Assistants (SMRA) will work closely with a faculty mentor on an existing research project, contributing to data collection, analysis, modeling, and potentially even manuscript preparation. This intensive experience provides a strong foundation for future graduate studies or careers in STEM fields.

“This is an incredible opportunity for undergraduates to get their feet wet in the world of mathematical research,” said Leslie Aquino PhD, a mathematics professor at UOG and a faculty member for the Guam NSF EPSCoR program. “Students will not only learn advanced mathematical concepts but also develop the crucial skills of collaboration, communication, and independent inquiry.”

Summer Math Research Experience Program:
The Summer Math Research Experience (SMRE) offers a broader introduction to mathematical research. College sophomores and juniors will work in small groups on focused research questions, exploring different areas of mathematics and their applications. This program emphasizes collaborative learning and provides a supportive environment for students to develop their research interests.

According to Guam NSF EPSCoR project associate Franki Guerrero, participants will receive various benefits including a stipend.

“The Summer Math Research Program is more than just an academic experience, it’s a chance to explore STEM in action, and build lasting mentorships,” explained Guerrero. “In addition, SMRE students receive a $4,800 stipend, and SMRAs earn $ 5,400 for the 8 weeks they will be in the program, making it both educational and financially supportive.”

Interested students are encouraged to visit the Guam NSF EPSCoR website at guamepscor.uog.edu for information about each program. Applications are being accepted until May 9, 2025.

For sophomores& juniors

For Seniors & Graduates

For sophomores
& juniors