SC State, UGA take students on science-filled adventure from coast to classroom
Students explored marine ecosystems, culture and careers in the Southeast.
ORANGEBURG, S.C. — From casting nets off the Georgia coast to exploring marine labs and historic Gullah communities, students from South Carolina State University and partner HBCUs got a hands-on look at what careers in environmental science can really offer — and it was anything but boring.
Through a growing partnership between SC State’s Institute for Business, Environment, Communications and Transportation (BECT Institute) and the University of Georgia’s Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant, students and faculty from HBCUs and women’s colleges across Georgia and South Carolina took part in two high-impact experiences that combined science, culture and career exploration.
A road trip for science and much more
The first adventure kicked off in April with a four-day coastal field trip for students and faculty from SC State, Morehouse College and Clark Atlanta University. The journey spanned dozens of research sites and cultural landmarks across two states.
In South Carolina, the group visited the Baruch Institute, North Inlet-Winyah Bay Reserve, Folly Beach Pier and marine labs at Fort Johnson and the College of Charleston. They also met Zenobia Harper, founder of the Gullah Preservation Society, who shared stories and insight into the region’s rich cultural heritage.
In Georgia, students boarded UGA’s R/V Sea Dawg for a trawling expedition, toured an oyster hatchery and attended a career panel at Savannah State University. They wrapped up at the Wormsloe Institute, where conservation and history intersect.
The trip gave students face time with scientists, educators and community leaders — and a clearer sense of where their studies might lead.
Big ideas, bold goals at geoscience workshop
Over three days, the group developed a set of practical solutions, including:
- Expanding field-based learning experiences.
- Building stronger industry partnerships for internships and mentorships.
- Launching targeted programs to support underrepresented students.
- Strengthening collaboration between institutions, employers and funders.
Venetia Lyles, associate professor of chemistry at SC State and director of the Savannah River Environmental Science Field Station, and Mona Behl, associate director of Georgia Sea Grant at UGA, helped lead both events. Both serve on the BECT Institute advisory council. A virtual follow-up session is planned for August to continue the momentum.
About the BECT Institute
Created by state legislation serving all seven South Carolina HBCUs, SC State’s BECT Institute supports interdisciplinary learning and engagement in business, environmental science, communication and transportation. Its goals include:
Building a pipeline of skilled students through hands-on learning.
- Supporting community and economic development.
- Partnering with industry and government agencies.
- Providing professional development for students, faculty and the community.
- Expanding SC State’s reach in research, teaching and service.
Want to learn more about how the BECT Institute is connecting students to meaningful careers? Visit www.scsu.edu/bect or contact Dr. Barbara Adams, executive director, at badams@scsu.edu or (803) 516‑4864.