VIMS

Warner, Kaine, and Wittman congratulate VIMS on 75th anniversary

U.S. Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine and U.S. Representative Rob Wittman have introduced a resolution congratulating the Virginia Institute of Marine Science on its 75th anniversary in 2015. The resolution expresses the Virginia lawmakers’ appreciation for the 75 years of service to the environment by faculty, staff, and students at VIMS and in William & Mary's School of Marine Science.

Virginia Senator Mark Warner with ABC director Stan Allen during a 2010 tour of the VIMS Oyster Hatchery.Says Warner, “For 75 years the Virginia Institute of Marine Science has produced cutting-edge research that has helped policymakers, educators, and citizens better understand one of Virginia’s most valuable natural resources, the Chesapeake Bay. VIMS has earned a reputation as a world-class research institution that advances the frontiers of marine science. The Commonwealth of Virginia is fortunate to host one of the largest and most respected marine research education centers in the United States.”

Senator Tim Kaine tours the VIMS campus with Dean and Director John Wells during a 2014 visit.“Over 75 years," says Kaine, "VIMS has built a sterling reputation as a national leader in environmental education and a trusted source of information and analysis for generations of policymakers. VIMS research has yielded critical insights into the water quality of Chesapeake Bay and its rivers, the most effective strategies to partner with Virginia’s commercial watermen to maintain robust oyster and crab populations, the most precise projections of sea-level rise and recurrent flooding in Hampton Roads, and countless other areas. I congratulate VIMS for 75 years of dedication to academic excellence and scientific achievement.”

U.S. Congressman Rob Wittman addresses W&M undergraduates enrolled in the Introduction to Marine Science class.“Whether advising policy makers or educating future scientific leaders, VIMS has established itself as a true leader in the field of marine science,” says Wittman. “I personally have benefited from research and analysis produced by the fantastic folks at VIMS, and many of their insights are reflected in my work on the House Natural Resources Committee. I commend VIMS on 75 years of extraordinary achievements, and I know that the Institute will continue to contribute mightily to the scientific community in the years to come.”

The full text of the resolution is available in House and Senate versions.