Science was front and center during the University of Guam’s Charter Day festivities as students from the Guam NSF EPSCoR program helped spark curiosity among hundreds of visiting students from across the island.
Throughout the day, Guam EPSCoR student researchers hosted interactive outreach booths at the UOG Marine Laboratory, welcoming groups of elementary, middle, and high school students and the greater community, eager to learn more about the island’s unique marine and environmental ecosystems.
The outreach activities were designed to make science accessible and engaging. Visiting students explored hands-on demonstrations that introduced them to topics such as marine life, environmental monitoring, and the role of science in protecting Guam’s natural resources. EPSCoR students guided participants through experiments, answered questions, and shared their experiences pursuing careers in science and research.
The event created a rare opportunity for younger students to interact directly with college-level researchers working on issues relevant to Guam and the broader Pacific region.
For the EPSCoR student Diana Noto, the outreach was just as meaningful. Noto was excited to share her work and encourage the next generation of scientists.
“Seeing all the students make a connection with the marine life was a real win for me,” said Noto. “There were students who were really reluctant in the touch tank, and it was very rewarding to see the students interacting with the animals after they learned more about them.”
By the end of the day, the Marine Lab had welcomed hundreds of students from schools across Guam, many leaving with a deeper appreciation for the island’s marine environments—and a new curiosity about science.
The Guam EPSCoR program supports research and workforce development in STEM fields across the island, helping build local capacity in areas such as environmental science, data science, and sustainable resource management.
Through events like Charter Day, the program not only advances research but also connects young learners with the scientists and discoveries shaping Guam’s future.