W&M’s Batten School Launches Blue Horizons Fellows Program

The Batten School of Coastal & Marine Sciences and the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) announced the launch of the Blue Horizons Visiting Fellows Program on September 8, 2023. This initiative, set to begin in fall 2025, will feature former U.S. Secretary of State John F. Kerry as its inaugural fellow. The program aims to engage thought leaders from various fields to foster innovation and dialogue around pressing environmental issues.

Derek Aday, Dean and Director of both the Batten School and VIMS, expressed enthusiasm for the program’s potential impact. “Through Blue Horizons, we will bring recognized thinkers and leaders from across disciplines and vocations to spark ideas, foster dialogue, and inspire the next generation of problem solvers,” Aday stated. He emphasized Kerry’s expertise at the intersection of science and policy, noting its relevance to the community’s efforts in addressing challenges facing coastal areas and marine ecosystems.

As environmental pressures escalate, Kerry will discuss these issues in a Fireside Chat scheduled for October 15, 2023. This event is part of William & Mary’s Year of the Environment programming, which celebrates the university’s commitment to environmental stewardship. Tickets will be made available through a lottery system, closing on October 1, 2023.

Kerry shared his excitement about joining the program, stating, “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, and I’m excited to be part of the conversation with the experts at the Batten School & VIMS.”

About the Blue Horizons Visiting Fellows Program

The Blue Horizons Visiting Fellows Program is made possible by the generous support of philanthropist Jane Batten, who has made significant contributions to the initiative. Each year, the program will invite distinguished fellows to the Batten School and VIMS to help advance scientific solutions. All fellows will deliver a public talk and engage in discussions with scientists, students, and practitioners.

Profile of John F. Kerry

John F. Kerry served as the 68th Secretary of State of the United States from 2013 to 2017. During his tenure, he focused on critical issues such as nuclear nonproliferation, combating extremism, and addressing climate change. Notably, he played a key role in negotiating the Iran nuclear deal and the Paris Climate Agreement.

In January 2021, Kerry was appointed the inaugural Special Presidential Envoy for Climate under President Joe Biden, marking him as the first principal on the National Security Council entirely dedicated to climate-related matters. Throughout his career, he has also been a U.S. Senator from Massachusetts and chaired the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

Kerry has authored several books, including his memoir, “Every Day Is Extra,” which reflects on his lifelong commitment to public service. He received numerous accolades for his efforts, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom on May 3, 2024.

The Blue Horizons program represents a significant step toward addressing environmental challenges through interdisciplinary collaboration, drawing on Kerry’s extensive experience to inspire future leaders in science and policy.