William & Mary Unveils Blue Horizons Program with John Kerry

The Batten School of Coastal & Marine Sciences and the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) announced on September 8, 2023, the launch of the Blue Horizons Visiting Fellows Program. This initiative, set to commence in fall 2025, will feature former U.S. Secretary of State John F. Kerry as its inaugural fellow. The program aims to bring together esteemed thinkers and leaders to foster dialogue and inspire innovative solutions to pressing challenges facing coastal and marine environments.

Program Goals and Inaugural Event

Dean and Director of the Batten School and VIMS, Derek Aday, expressed enthusiasm about Kerry’s participation, noting, “Through Blue Horizons, we will bring recognized thinkers and leaders from across disciplines to spark ideas and inspire the next generation of problem solvers.” Kerry’s extensive experience in the intersection of science and policy is expected to greatly benefit the community dedicated to addressing issues affecting coastal regions.

Kerry will discuss these pressing matters during a Fireside Chat on October 15, 2023, a key event in William & Mary’s Year of the Environment programming. This initiative, led by Aday, underscores the university’s commitment to environmental sustainability and the health of communities reliant on marine resources. Tickets for the event will be available through a lottery system, which will close on October 1.

In reflecting on his role, Kerry stated, “I have been passionate about the oceans since I was a child… Our oceans feed billions, support coastal communities and regulate global temperatures. These precious resources need non-partisan science and solutions more than ever.” His remarks highlight the urgency of addressing environmental challenges through collaborative efforts.

Details of the Blue Horizons Visiting Fellows Program

The Blue Horizons program is made possible by the generous support of philanthropist Jane Batten, who has contributed significantly to the initiative. Each year, Blue Horizons Fellows will engage with the Batten School and VIMS, participating in public talks and discussions with scientists, students, and practitioners to advance scientific solutions.

Kerry has an impressive background in public service, having served as the 68th Secretary of State from 2013 to 2017. His tenure included pivotal roles in negotiating international agreements such as the Paris Climate Agreement and the Iran nuclear deal. In addition, he was appointed as the inaugural special presidential envoy for climate under President Joe Biden, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to addressing climate change as a national security issue.

Throughout his career, Kerry has also served as a U.S. senator, where he was chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and has been recognized with numerous honors, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom awarded in 2024 for his dedication to public service. He has authored several books, including his memoir, Every Day Is Extra, which reflects on his experiences and the demands of leadership.

The establishment of the Blue Horizons Visiting Fellows Program marks a significant step in fostering interdisciplinary collaboration aimed at tackling the complex challenges facing our oceans and coastal communities. As the inaugural fellow, John Kerry’s leadership and experience are expected to galvanize efforts at the Batten School and VIMS, inspiring future generations to engage in meaningful environmental stewardship.