MarineQuest A Legacy of Coastal Learning

Story posted by UNCW Alumni Aug 18, 2025 | Emily Reier ’28

“Watching students be introduced to and do the same field work I did while working on my Honors thesis was a really cool full-circle moment for me,” shared Sam Stephan '24. 

For over 45 years, MarineQuest has immersed K-12 students in the rich marine ecosystems of coastal North Carolina to build leaders, inspire futures and fuel UNCW’s mission to build leaders, inspire futures and solidify our place as the state’s coastal university. What began as a small initiative has grown into a nationally recognized program combining science, sustainability and community connection. Stephan, who first became involved with MarineQuest while conducting undergraduate research, now serves as a kayak instructor and helps bring marine science to life for younger students.

“We engage 6,000 students annually through school field trips, weekend programs and summer programs,” says Director Erin Moran ’11, ’14. "We also support our UNCW marine science community by providing opportunities to interact with our students and showcase the research taking place at UNCW,” she adds.

Moran, who started working with the program as an Ocean Lab summer instructor, sees MarineQuest as a place where discovery, growth and futures begin. “Our goal is to provide youth with opportunities to explore, discover and value coastal marine ecosystems, and at MarineQuest, that journey can begin as early as four years old.”

To meet the growing demand for year-round programming, MarineQuest has expanded both in scope and in staff. “We’ve grown significantly,” said Moran. “When I started in a permanent capacity, we were a team of five. Now we’re nine strong, with specialized roles to meet growing demand.” In fact, you'll find quite a few UNCW alumni who lead, teach and inspire on their team.

For Kimberly Cockrell ’00, now MarineQuest’s Business Service Coordinator, that impact became clear during a milestone celebration. “When we had our 40th [anniversary] event, I was amazed at the number of students who have been a part of MarineQuest,” she shared. “From those who now work in marine science in some capacity to the children of students who had attended a summer program.”

Each team member brings their unique story and passion to the program, enriching the experience for the next generation of students.

By empowering the next generation with knowledge and climate-conscious values, MarineQuest directly supports UNCW’s broader mission of coastal resiliency, laying the groundwork for sustainable communities, strong coastal economies, and resilient ecosystems. One student, one dive, one discovery at a time.

“My interest in coastal and marine sciences stems from the holistic nature of the system — it’s all connected,” says Moran. “MarineQuest reflects that connection by showing kids how their choices impact the coast and the planet.” Through immersive science adventures like snorkeling and kayaking to data collection aboard research vessels and hands-on service projects, MarineQuest promotes environmental responsibility and awareness from an early age.

While these are transformational and enriching experiences, they’re also resource-intensive. MarineQuest staff work diligently to secure funding and sponsorships that help meet travel and tuition costs, ensuring students from all backgrounds can participate.

“We’re a receipt-supported nonprofit,” explained Liz Smith '17, overnight coordinator. “Grants and donations are what allow us to provide scholarships and reduced-cost programs. Every bit of support helps us reach more students.”

To learn more about how you can support MarineQuest and invest in the future of coastal education, visit giving.uncw.edu. Additionally, learn more about UNCW’s Center for Marine Science (CMS) news, programs, events and more.