In the rhythmic cadence of coastal life, where the ebb and flow of tides mirror the constant flux of challenges and change, lies Georgia Conservancy, a statewide, donor-supported conservation organization that recognizes the connection between the environment, the economy, and equity. As a UGA Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant State Fellow working in coastal conservation and engagement at Georgia Conservancy, each day unfolds with the promise of new discoveries and demanding deadlines, requiring a delicate balance of scientific rigor and personal introspection. Every day is a tapestry of exploration and action, woven with threads of scientific inquiry, community engagement, and advocacy for environmental resilience.  

Diving into my role, I find myself immersed in a smorgasbord of research all grounded in robust scientific data. From studying North Atlantic Right Whales to participating in the South Atlantic Salt Marsh Initiative, every task is an opportunity to blend science with meaningful action. At the heart of my work lies a commitment to bridging the gap between science and community, a mission that resonates deeply with my upbringing in the small town of Leesburg, Georgia. Raised amidst the backdrop of farming and fishing, I witnessed firsthand the symbiotic relationship between land and livelihood, and the profound impact of environmental degradation.

six young women pose around a framed painting of a whale

Murphy (second from left) gathers with participants at “The Right Whale to Save: Art Show and Fundraiser.

Leaning on my marine science background, I was given the awe-inspiring task of studying North Atlantic Right Whales, majestic creatures whose existence is threatened by human activities. Through collaborative efforts and innovative events like our art show with the Tybee Island Marine Science Center, we not only raise awareness about boater laws but also foster a sense of collective responsibility towards marine conservation. It’s a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness between art and science, a vision my parents had when they named me after Claude Monet.

Transitioning into environmental science, I find myself involved with plans like the South Atlantic Salt Marsh Initiative, where I collaborate with diverse stakeholders to safeguard our coastal ecosystems. At Georgia Conservancy, every skill is valued, and no opportunity is wasted. It’s a rare environment where both my degrees of Marine and Environmental Science find equal footing, empowering me to make meaningful contributions without compromise. 

During this fellowship, I have found the power to rewrite narratives, to reclaim spaces lost to history’s shadow. Places like Seabrook Village, steeped in the echoes of General William T. Sherman’s promise, now stand as monuments to resilience and heritage. In my work I’ve been driven by a passion to amplify the voices of marginalized communities in environmental discourse. I have used this opportunity to help those who have long been silenced by systemic inequities. In a remarkably productive span of time, I have actively engaged in a diverse array of conferences and events centered around pivotal environmental and cultural initiatives. Among these engagements, I have contributed to Georgia environmental justice meetings, fostering discussions and strategies aimed at ensuring equitable environmental practices. I have liaised with coastal municipalities like Brunswick, offering insights and support in combatting erosion threatening historically significant black cemeteries.

Murphy talks with an attendee at the Southeastern Estuarine Research Society (SEERS) conference.

Through my active participation in climate resilience meetings, I have contributed insights and strategies to address the challenges posed by a changing climate. I have honed my leadership skills and deepened my understanding of environmental issues through my involvement in the Institute for Georgia Environmental Leadership. I have forged collaborative ties with esteemed agencies like the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. I have engaged in immersive hands-on experiences and actively participated in conferences such as The Southeast and Caribbean Disaster Resilience Partnership and the Southeastern Estuarine Research Society conference. Even through the rigors of scientific research, moments of respite and casual engagement hold their own significance. At the Georgia Conservancy oyster roast, a cherished coastal event, I mingled with a diverse array of individuals. This gathering, replete with fresh local oysters, good music, and insightful exchanges, afforded me the privilege of interacting with coastal luminaries spanning from fishermen to politicians.

Amidst the relentless pursuit of science and community engagement, lies a deeper message of resilience; one that transcends the boundaries of discipline and identity. It’s the resilience of coastal ecosystems, weathering the storms of human exploitation and climate change that I witness firsthand in a recent position as a Georgia Navigator for the Geos Institute. It’s the resilience of communities, standing firm in the face of environmental injustice and cultural erasure. And it’s the resilience of individuals, like myself, who refuse to be defined by the limitations imposed upon them. Under the guidance of mentors like Courtney Reich and Katherine Moore, I am driven to serve as an ambassador of environmental stewardship, amplifying the voices of those often overlooked in the conservation narrative. As I continue as a Sea Grant Fellow, I understand that this is a role that requires wearing many hats; advocate, scientist, community organizer, but it’s one that I embrace wholeheartedly. In the tapestry of Georgia Conservancy’s mission lies a message of resilience; a reminder that in the face of adversity, we have the power to forge a brighter, more sustainable future for all.