Galveston College biology instructor Jacquelyn Cresswell, Ph.D., contributed to ongoing
marine research efforts at the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary (FGBNMS)
as part of a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)-led expedition
last summer that was featured in a Houston-area television special.
Cresswell, who teaches courses in biology, science and business at Galveston College,
joined a research team aboard an offshore mission in the Gulf of Mexico in summer
2024. The project focused on studying and protecting the vibrant ecosystems of the
Flower Garden Banks, one of the healthiest coral reef systems in the continental United
States.
“It was an incredible opportunity to be part of this mission and to help communicate
the value of our marine resources,” said Cresswell. “This kind of work not only supports
critical conservation efforts, but also inspires the next generation of scientists,
many of whom are right here at Galveston College.”
In March 2025, Cresswell shared highlights from the research expedition with the GC
campus community during a luncheon presentation, offering insight into the sanctuary’s
scientific work and emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration
in advancing marine conservation.
The broader work of the NOAA Flower Garden Banks team, including the expedition Cresswell
participated in, was featured in a special television program that aired across Houston
in April. The program, produced in partnership with NOAA Flower Garden Banks National
Marine Sanctuary, Moody Gardens, and KPRC-TV, brought viewers aboard the research
vessel and offered an immersive look at the sanctuary’s efforts.
Hosted by KPRC Chief Meteorologist and Houston media personality Anthony Yanez, the
television special, “Garden in the Gulf: A Reef Rescue Mission,” showcased the beauty
and scientific significance of the Flower Garden Banks. Yanez accompanied the research
team offshore, sharing their work with viewers.
The program focused on key themes such as community, partnerships, the economy, science,
and resource protection, demonstrating the far-reaching impact of marine research
on the Gulf Coast and beyond. The full segment is available on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/_gZd-mNLEfw?si=x-QF8kyOTdMH7J5S).
Cresswell’s involvement in the expedition underscores GC’s commitment to providing
students with opportunities that connect classroom learning to real-world science.
By participating with NOAA and the sanctuary team, she brings valuable hands-on experience
back to her students, helping them understand how science, policy and community engagement
are all involved in protecting vital natural resources.
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Galveston College was founded in 1967 and is a comprehensive community college providing the residents of Galveston Island and the surrounding region with academic, workforce development, continuing education and community service programs.