Cyprus Whitaker (they/he)
Aqueous Fellow
Oregon State University (Major: Environmental Science, Minor: Sociology)
Welcome to Hurricane Island!
I’m here at Hurricane Island as an Aqueous Fellow, which is a program through University of Maine that merges Indigenous Science with Aquaculture research. As soon as I heard that one of the Aqueous projects was on Hurricane Island, I jumped at the opportunity. I came to Hurricane Island to learn more about aquaculture, spend time outside, and be a part of the amazing community here. Already, I’m having an amazing time whether I’m elbows deep in a lantern net or teaching students.
Cleaning scallops on the farm
I’m designing a two-eyed seeing curriculum that challenges students to consider both indigenous knowledge and western science when thinking about environmental solutions. I also run spat bag lessons where students dig through a spat bag for juvenile scallops, identifying interesting organisms and contributing towards a broader community science project. I’ve been shadowing existing lessons on Hurricane Island and doing my own research to create a hands-on lesson plan.
Here I am teaching students about the scallop farm
I love the ocean and learning about all the fascinating creatures right off our coast. I want to be a part of teaching the next generation of scientists, policy makers, and leaders that change the world. Being here on Hurricane Island, I feel that I’m able to make a difference teaching students about the wonders of the ocean and aquaculture!
Best fishes,
Cyprus
