Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant announced three recipients of its Outstanding Partner Award at its 2025 annual meeting in January. The award recognizes individuals nominated by staff and faculty for their exceptional dedication, commitment and support of the program.
The award recipients include Garrow Alberson, director of engineering and public works with the city of Brunswick; Sandy Shepherd, owner of Good Shepherd Consulting; and Steve Miller, a volunteer at the UGA Aquarium.
Alberson’s collaboration with Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant’s stormwater program has been exemplary. Since being named city engineer, he has played a pivotal role in advancing stormwater initiatives, serving as a panelist and guest speaker at several outreach events and partnering on 21 projects. His support of the Rethinking Runoff plan and related projects has helped manage more than 1 million gallons of stormwater using green infrastructure, improving water quality and reducing flooding in Brunswick.
“He is one of the first people I call when I’m introducing researchers, students or industry professionals,” said Jessica Brown, stormwater specialist and Alberson’s nominator. “He is a class act, a gracious host and always open to considering new partnerships.”
Miller has volunteered with Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant since March 2022, contributing more than 500 hours of service to the UGA Aquarium. His work includes cleaning protein skimmers, feeding the aquarium’s collection and assisting with general operations. He also engages with visitors before feedings, enhancing their experience and fostering an appreciation for the coast.
With a background in electrical engineering, Miller has provided critical support by maintaining pumps, rewiring equipment and servicing microscopes in the education laboratories. He has also helped troubleshoot technical issues with exhibits.
“His face has become a staple around the halls of our building, dedicating his time and energy across many facets of our operations and educational programming,” said Katie Higgins, marine educator and volunteer coordinator. “He has never hesitated to pitch in when needed, and his impact on our mission is paramount.”
Shepherd has supported and advocated for Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant for more than 30 years. Since the early 1990s, he has worked closely with seafood specialists, fisheries experts and aquaculture staff to advance the safety, production and diversification of Georgia’s commercial seafood industry. He has spoken on behalf of the program during National Sea Grant site reviews, served on a search committee for the current seafood specialist and previously served on the program’s advisory board. His involvement has fostered meaningful program impacts, trusted relationships and a broad appreciation for Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant’s work across the state and region.
“It is not an exaggeration to state that Sandy’s name is synonymous with seafood safety in Georgia,” said Bryan Fluech, associate director of extension and Shepherd’s nominator. “He continues to selflessly lend his wealth of knowledge and expertise to our program, despite his busy schedule, which has proven invaluable.”
The Outstanding Partner Awards celebrate the commitment and impact of those who go above and beyond in supporting Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant’s mission. Their dedication strengthens coastal communities, fosters collaboration and advances critical research and outreach efforts. Recognizing their exceptional contributions underscores the importance of partnerships in preserving and enhancing Georgia’s coastal resources for future generations.