Public Programs
After Hours
After Hours is a long-running lecture series offered throughout the year. In this unique public forum, scientists from William & Mary's VIMS & Batten School share the cutting-edge marine research they’re conducting in the Chesapeake Bay and around the globe. In-person lectures are accompanied by a live webinar option, allowing viewers worldwide to tune in from the comfort of their homes.
Public Tours
Reserve space on our public tours to learn more about VIMS & the Batten School and the ongoing research activities around campus. These 90-minute, guided tours are designed for adults, with older children (ages 10 and up) welcome. Tours are provided monthly during the academic year and weekly during the summer.
Marine Science Day
Marine Science Day is our annual free, family-friendly open house that draws over 2,000 visitors to the Gloucester Point campus annually. This one-day annual event includes lab tours, seining for animals in the river, a career fair, educational exhibits and games, arts and crafts, and more!
Discovery Labs
The monthly Discovery Lab series provides fun, family-friendly experiences and lifelong learning. Each lab focuses on a specific topic through a series of stations that provide hands-on activities for kids and adults. Participants look through microscopes, observe live animals, partake in crafts and games, and view research posters. Faculty and students from VIMS & the Batten School participate as speakers, sharing their research with the public in an intimate setting.
Speakers Bureau
The Speakers Bureau sends our scientists and educators on the road! Faculty, staff, and students are available to speak (in-person or virtually) to your community organization, school, club, business, or other private group. The topics offered are as diverse as our research programs. General presentations about VIMS & the Batten School are also available for those wishing to learn more about our mission and the important work we conduct.
Volunteering
Volunteers are an essential part of our connection with the community. Through interpretive programming in our Visitor Center as well as additional public programs such as festival exhibits, campus tours, and public lecture series, volunteers help program attendees discover marine science, learn about our coastal environment, and connect with the research and people behind that work. If you are interested in volunteering with the Office of Outreach & Engagement, please fill out the volunteer application form.