My name is Wave Moretto, and I absolutely love SCUBA diving, science communication, marine conservation, and all things kelp forest ecology. I’m a marine ecologist currently pursuing my PhD in fisheries science at Oregon State University.
The Seymour Center is where I was first introduced to what careers in marine science could look like. My favorite memory at the Seymour Center was getting to meet a harbor seal named Sprouts. I got to brush his teeth during Ocean Explorers!
When I began volunteering at the Seymour Center in high school, I had consistent exposure to the scientists and students working at UC Santa Cruz’s Long Marine Lab.
This is ultimately what motivated me to apply for and attend UC Santa Cruz for my undergraduate degree. I think the Seymour Center’s connection to UC Santa Cruz was integral in inspiring my future career.
“The Seymour Center solidified my interest in studying marine biology for a career.” – Wave Moretto
My goal is to become a professor overseeing my own research lab after completing my PhD. I am passionate about involving early-career students in my research, and I want to especially encourage young women to pursue their interests in SCUBA diving and field work.
With your support, the Seymour Center can welcome and inspire the next generation of scientists like me. Please consider making a gift to the Seymour Center to help raise $150,000 by December 31. Your investment will help support future scientists and conservation leaders.
Thank you,
Wave Moretto
Fisheries Science PhD Student & Seymour Alum
A note from Seymour Center’s Executive Director, Jonathan Hicken:
When Wave brushed a harbor seal’s teeth as a Seymour Center Ocean Explorer, she didn’t know she’d grow up to study kelp forests and fisheries. What she discovered here was more than marine science. She discovered a career path. She discovered her future.
That’s what the Seymour Marine Discovery Center does best: we create scientists. For 25 years, supporters like you have helped young people see themselves in science, connecting their natural curiosity to real research happening right here on our coast. Thousands of students have walked through our doors and discovered that science isn’t distant or abstract. Science is alive, local, and something they can do.
When you give to the Seymour Center, you make that transformation possible. You help kids discover their voice as scientists and advocates. You help us connect UCSC research to the next generation of scientists and solution-makers.
Wave’s journey to becoming a PhD marine ecologist is one of many that began here. Your support ensures there will always be a first spark for the next young scientist who walks through our doors and looks out across Monterey Bay wondering what’s possible.
Some of you have supported the mission for decades–thank you. I hope you feel proud knowing that 25 years later, the young people you supported have accomplished incredible things in the sciences and beyond. If you give for the first time this year, you too can have a meaningful impact on people like Wave.
Please give before December 31 to help us raise $150,000 to create more scientists in 2026.
