Gifts to the Sea -- Part II: OIST Protecting Oceans

December 2020

Set on the shores of Okinawa, OIST is the perfect place for students and faculty to study ocean ecology and marine life. The Marine Genomics Unit, Marine Biophysics Unit, Marine Eco-Evo-Devo Unit, Marine Climate Change Unit, and others offer robust opportunities for teaching, learning, and research in marine science.

In this two-part series, we take a deeper dive into OIST’s work in the area of coral research and conservation (part one) and ocean ecosystems and climate change (part two, here), as well as the philanthropy that helps to fuel these vital efforts.

Philanthropy Impact Report 2020

November 2020

In appreciation of your support, we are pleased to share OIST’s first philanthropic impact report.

Gifts to the Sea -- Part I: OIST Protecting Corals

November 2020

Set on the shores of Okinawa, OIST is the perfect place for students and faculty to study ocean ecology and marine life. The Marine Genomics Unit, Marine Biophysics Unit, Marine Eco-Evo-Devo Unit, Marine Climate Change Unit, and others offer robust opportunities for teaching, learning, and research in marine science.

In this two-part article, we take a deeper dive into OIST’s work in the area of coral research and conservation (part one, here) and ocean ecosystems and climate change (part two, coming in December), as well as the philanthropy that helps fuel these vital efforts.

STEM Education Bridges OIST and Okinawan Community

September 2020

In 2018, when Robert “Bob” Nakasone was appointed to OIST’s Board of Councilors, he asked OIST leaders a very specific question: “What has OIST been doing to promote STEM education in the community?”

According to data from the Okinawa Prefectural Government and other sources, Okinawa has a poorer record on the National Achievement Test and a lower proportion of young people pursuing higher education (36%) than the rest of Japan. And, of those who do continue their educations, fewer focus on science subjects at university.

These challenges won’t be overcome by OIST’s efforts alone, but — to answer Bob’s question — OIST has been working toward addressing the challenges by promoting STEM in the community.

How OIST and Concerned Citizens Are Working Together to Combat COVID-19

July 2020

“My help might not be worth much…but I would like to cooperate with you to overcome this situation.” These are the words Donor Nakamura included with her gift to OIST’s COVID-19 Response Fund when it launched in the spring. Since then, many others have contributed in recognition that OIST’s work — from innovative mathematical modeling to 3D printing of face shields to antibody testing — is leading the way to benefit the health of Okinawans and people around the world.