Showcasing the Empowered Females Transforming Knowledge and Inspiring Change at Scripps Oceanography
In the sunny coastal city of La Jolla, California, UC San Diego's Scripps Oceanography stands as one of the world's most significant centres for global earth science research and education. This prestigious institution, founded in 1903, has a rich history of inspirational and revolutionary women who have dedicated their lives to educating and inspiring future generations.
As March rolls in, the university is celebrating Women's History Month 2025, with a campuswide theme of "Empowerment Echoes: Celebrating Women Who Advocate and Educate." This year's celebration honours the impacts women have made to society throughout history, particularly at Scripps.
One of the most notable figures in Scripps' history is Margaret Leinen, the first female director of Scripps Oceanography. Serving as Vice Chancellor, Director, and Dean from 2013 until 2025, Leinen's historic leadership paved the way for women in high-level scientific administration at the institution.
Following Leinen, Meenakshi Wadhwa was appointed as the Vice Chancellor for Marine Sciences and 12th Director of Scripps in 2025, marking a continuation of female leadership at the institution. Wadhwa's interdisciplinary research background and leadership experience reflect the advanced scientific contributions women bring to Scripps.
Lisa Levin, a scientist at Scripps, has been instrumental in making deep ocean science accessible and influential in international policy, particularly through her work with the Deep Ocean Stewardship Initiative (DOSI). This initiative has played a key role in shaping United Nations agreements on biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction, highlighting the societal impact of women scientists at Scripps.
Easter Ellen Cupp, who earned her Ph.D. in oceanography from Scripps in 1934, was the first woman to do so and set an important precedent for women in oceanographic research at Scripps.
Moreover, Scripps Oceanography offers unparalleled education and training for the next generation of scientific and environmental leaders. Hannah Tannenbaum, the program manager of the Master of Advanced Studies program in Marine Biodiversity and Conservation (MAS MBC) at Scripps Oceanography, is proud to support students through their studies and into the world where they do marine conservation work.
Scripps Oceanography operates a fleet of four oceanographic research vessels, providing students and researchers with hands-on experience in the field. Lihini Aluwihare, the deputy director for education at Scripps Oceanography, is dedicated to ensuring that every student has access to these valuable learning opportunities.
In addition to its academic achievements, Scripps Oceanography is committed to mentoring future scientists and fostering a culture of empowerment. Through mentoring and capacity-building efforts like those by Harriet Harden Davies connected to Scripps-associated scientists, the institution emphasises the importance of empowering the next generation of ocean scientists and diplomats.
The UC San Diego Women's Center is a valuable resource for finding out more about the celebration and the impactful work being done by women at Scripps. UC San Diego is one of the top 15 research universities in the world, driven by exceptional scholars who aren't afraid to look deeper, challenge expectations, and redefine conventional wisdom.
As we celebrate Women's History Month 2025, we honour the trailblazing women at Scripps Oceanography who have made significant contributions to ocean and earth sciences, international environmental policy, and education. Their work continues to inspire and empower future generations of scientists and leaders.
- Margaret Leinen, a trailblazing woman at UC San Diego's Scripps Oceanography, served as the first female director and made history by paving the way for women in high-level scientific administration.
- The interdisciplinary research background and leadership of Meenakshi Wadhwa, the current Vice Chancellor for Marine Sciences and 12th Director of Scripps, reflects the advanced scientific contributions women bring to oceanographic research.
- Lisa Levin, a scientist at Scripps, has significantly influenced international policy through her work with the Deep Ocean Stewardship Initiative (DOSI), shaping United Nations agreements on biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction.
- Scripps Oceanography's Master of Advanced Studies program in Marine Biodiversity and Conservation (MAS MBC) offers education and training for the next generation of environmental leaders, with Hannah Tannenbaum, the program manager, supporting students through their studies and into marine conservation work.
