Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant is proud to celebrate the exceptional contributions of our faculty and staff who work tirelessly to fulfill our mission. This year, several team members were recognized for their outstanding service to staff, partners, and coastal communities. Here are the highlights of their achievements:
Anne Lindsay, Associate Director of Marine Education
Award: Walter Barnard Hill Award for Distinguished Achievement in Public Service and Outreach
Anne Lindsay was honored with the UGA Public Service and Outreach Walter B. Hill Award for her transformative contributions to public service in Georgia. As Associate Director of Marine Education, Lindsay manages the Marine Education Center and Aquarium on Skidaway Island, overseeing personnel, programs, and facilities. She develops and evaluates new educational initiatives, coordinates summer marine science camps, and fosters partnerships to enhance programming. Lindsay’s leadership has significantly advanced our mission to improve the quality of life for Georgians.
Mark Risse, Director
Award: Sea Grant Association (SGA) President’s Award
Mark Risse received the prestigious SGA President’s Award for his leadership in establishing the inaugural SGA Ethics Committee. As Director, Risse oversees all aspects of Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant, from research and education to policy and budgetary decisions. His extensive experience at UGA and leadership within the national Sea Grant Association make him a vital advocate for regional and national coastal initiatives.
Katie Higgins, Marine Educator
Award: Georgia Association of Marine Education (GAME) Educator of the Year
Katie Higgins was named Educator of the Year at the GAME annual conference in recognition of her outstanding contributions to environmental education. Higgins is a cornerstone of our education team, teaching thousands of pre-K–12 students at the Marine Education Center and Aquarium. She has also developed outreach programs and teacher training initiatives to foster environmental literacy and workforce development. Her dedication is instrumental in promoting healthy coastal ecosystems.
Katy Smith, Water Resources Specialist
Award: Educator Spotlight by Algalita’s Wayfinder Society
Katy Smith was honored by Algalita’s Wayfinder Society for her impactful efforts in environmental education, specifically focusing on marine debris prevention and water resource protection. Smith serves as a water resources specialist and public service faculty, engaging Georgia’s teachers, students, and community members through innovative programs, curricula, and activities. Her passion for coastal ecology shines in her work, inspiring stewardship and sustainable practices. Learn more about Smith’s impact in her educator spotlight.
Mona Behl, Associate Director of Georgia Sea Grant
Award: NSF – Every Page Foundation Ocean Decade Champion
Mona Behl was one of 22 women recognized as an Ocean Decade Champion by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and Every Page Foundation. This accolade supports her pioneering research on climate adaptation and workforce readiness in the geosciences. Learn more about her accomplishments here. Behl provides leadership across all facets of Georgia Sea Grant, directing research, fellowship programs, and strategic initiatives. Her work ensures that Sea Grant investments are impactful and aligned with national priorities.
Sara Karlsson, Administrative Financial Director
Award: UGA Public Service and Outreach Outstanding Customer Service Award
Sara Karlsson was recognized for her exceptional service at the UGA Public Service and Outreach Staff Awards Meeting. Karlsson supports over 40 faculty and staff, overseeing financial management, human resources, and grant administration. Her guidance is crucial to the seamless operation of Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant, ensuring compliance and efficiency across all administrative functions.
We are grateful for the dedication and talent of our team members, whose efforts continue to make a difference along Georgia’s coast and beyond.