This article printed in Oceanus Summer 2026
Estimated reading time: 2 minutes
The challenges facing our planet, and science itself, have never been Greater: sea level rise, massive storms, food and economic insecurity—all during a time of growing uncertainty across the U.S. science funding landscape. That’s why WHOI is championing an audacious goal to supercharge ocean science that accelerates global solutions.
On October 17, 2025, the institution publicly launched the Campaign for Our Ocean Planet with a dynamic, campus-wide celebration of science in Woods Hole. The festivities marked the beginning of the largest fundraising effort in ocean science history, with the goal of raising $500 million to accelerate discovery and solutions by 2027.
The celebration brought together nearly 1,000 scientists, engineers, trustees, philanthropists, and global ocean leaders for a full day of immersive experiences, including behind-the-scenes tours of laboratories, marine operations, and iconic assets such as the research vessel Neil Armstrong and the human-occupied submersible Alvin.
Building on strong early momentum since the campaign’s quiet phase began in 2021, the launch also signaled ambition and optimism for the future of ocean science. WHOI has since carried that energy forward through a series of regional Celebrations of Science and campaign launches in Palm Beach, Dallas, and New York City in 2026. These events showcased WHOI’s cutting-edge research, from coral reef restoration and microplastic detection to carbon dioxide removal, ocean exploration technologies, and fundamental science that furthers our knowledge of our ocean planet. The campaign celebration has since inspired and successfully deepened the institution's relationships with supporters, reinforcing a shared commitment to advancing science, innovation, and education to sustain ocean health and human prosperity.
As of this publication, WHOI has raised $461 million towards our $500 million goal; however, as Board Chair Paul Salem stated in October, “Our goal is to raise the most money in history for ocean science!”
Woods Hole
WHOI welcomed nearly 1,000 visitors to campus to meet leading scientists, stewards, activists, and storytellers in support of ocean science and conservation.
Palm Beach
Palm Beach supporters packed the home of Chapter Members Chris and Anne Flowers, who hosted the event, which featured WHOI experts on harmful algal blooms, coral reefs, underwater vehicles, and dolphin communication.
Dallas
In Texas, 96 attendees, including Dallas Chapter Members and their guests, gathered at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science to join in the campaign.
New York
At the Morgan Library & Museum in New York City, WHOI hosted over 230 attendees who enjoyed keynote speeches from distinguished explorers, including former NASA astronaut and WHOI Corporation Member Suni Williams, deep sea explorer Edie Widder, and ocean exploration pioneer Bob Ballard.
