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Research to Real-World Learning: The Virginia Scientists and Educators Alliance (VA SEA) Model

Research to Real-World Learning: The Virginia Scientists and Educators Alliance (VA SEA) Model

Wed, Oct 8 2025, 3 - 4pm

Speaker(s): Sarah Nuss and Lisa Lawrence

Location: Webinar

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Discover how the Virginia Scientists and Educators Alliance (VA SEA) is transforming the way science reaches the classroom! Since 2015, this unique partnership has brought together graduate students from the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) and other universities with K–12 teachers to turn cutting-edge research into creative, classroom-ready lesson plans.

To date, VA SEA has produced 86 teacher-vetted lessons that have been downloaded over 26,000 times in 172 countries. Graduate students gain hands-on experience in science communication and outreach, while teachers receive engaging, research-based resources to spark curiosity in their students—at no cost.

In this webinar, presenters share how VA SEA builds bridges between scientists, educators, and students, and see how this Virginia-grown idea has inspired similar efforts across the country.

Speakers:

sarah nuss

Sarah Nuss, Virginia Institute of Marine Science

Sarah Nuss, Director of VIMS Office of Outreach and Engagement, has spent the past 20 years  designing and leading education programs that connect students, teachers, and communities to the Chesapeake Bay and its coastal ecosystems. Her team’s work includes summer marine science camps, field-based learning experiences, and professional development for both K–12 educators and graduate students. Sarah’s research centers on how pre-service teacher training influences the integration of environmental education in schools, the role of experiential learning in shaping student and teacher outcomes, and the pathways that guide young people toward careers in ocean science. Sarah serves as Co-PI for VA SEA. 

lisa lawrence

Lisa Lawrence, Virginia Institute of Marine Science

Lisa Lawrence, Associate Director of Strategic Initiatives & Broader Impacts at VIMS, blends her background in fisheries science with a passion for making marine research matter to the public. She creates innovative resources for teachers, mentors graduate students in science communication including as Co-PI for VA SEA, and partners with researchers to amplify the real-world impact of their work. Her contributions have earned her national recognition, including awards from both the Mid-Atlantic and National Marine Educators Associations.

Referenced Project(s)
Virginia Scientists and Educators Alliance (VA SEA) & Partners