Announcing Winner of Anne Murphy Ocean Stewardship Scholarship

The Port Townsend Marine Science Center is pleased to announce the winner of the Anne Murphy Ocean Stewardship scholarship. The Port Townsend Marine Science Center awards this $500 scholarship annually to a graduating East Jefferson county high school senior who embodies the values that Anne Murphy lives: curiosity, wonder, and love of the marine environment. Anne Murphy served as Executive Director of the Port Townsend Marine Science Center, pouring her heart into growing an organization that would  nurture exploration and discovery of our local shores and waters. She retired after 24 years, leaving behind a vibrant community treasure that has profoundly affected thousands of people.

Anne Murphy

The winner of this year's award is Rian Plastow, selected for her demonstrated interest in science and the environment. Rian has pursued her interest in environmental science since the 7th grade. As an active community organizer and advocate for ocean health in Jefferson County, Rian has worked with organizations like the Jefferson Land Trust on the Elwha River re-vegetation project and the North Olympic Salmon Coalition to restore salmon habitat.

Rian Plastow

Rian is off to Evergreen State College this fall where she will study environmental science and ecology, continuing her work with watershed health. “I want to speak for the trees, for the salmon, the ocean, the creeks, and everything else that doesn’t have a voice,” Rian said. She’s also excited to pass on what she’s learned by teaching children about human impacts on the environment and steps they can take to reduce their impact. “I think education is the key to really making a change,” Rian said. “This is the generation that can make an impact and I want to be a part of that.”

We wish Rian well during her first year of collegiate study and are thankful for her support of ocean health and advocacy.

The Anne Murphy Ocean Steward Scholarship will be awarded each year in the spring. We invite you to make an annual contribution to this fund. Learn more about the Anne Murphy Ocean Stewardship Scholarship.