A Special Message from SFS Leadership

Dear SFS members and friends,

Most of you are probably aware of the multitude of recent executive orders issued by the U.S. President that are leading to dramatic changes in governmental priorities. The end result of these executive orders is still taking shape, and the effects on people, programs, and priorities are beginning to be revealed. Many of these orders are aimed at the elimination of federal staff and programs holding titles in reference to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. There seems to be an intention to eliminate these programs in private and nonprofit sectors, too. 

The Society for Freshwater Science leadership is resolute in our mission to advance freshwater science and support all of our members in their scientific pursuits. We will continue to work toward a better understanding of freshwater systems and the effects of climate change, promote and build ecological resilience and healthier aquatic systems, and ensure that we have a diverse, inclusive, and equitable society. Ultimately, we are devoted to helping understand and protect our most precious resource on the planet, fresh water, for all peoples. 

The Society for Freshwater Science values diversity, equity, inclusivity, accessibility, and the environmental justice principles that we promote, because we know that each of these values strengthens the community of people conducting science, and as a result, our understanding and management of freshwaters will advance more rapidly. We will strengthen our society by sustaining and expanding our current programs in support of all people, scientific disciplines, and professions engaged in freshwater science, education, and environmental management and policy. The Society has been at the forefront of building a science community that is welcoming and supportive of all perspectives and experiences through such efforts as the Instars and Emerge Mentoring Programs, the Headwaters Leadership Academy, and our awards for students and early career scientists. Our members have secured federal grant funding, volunteered their time and talents, and provided personal donations to SFS to advance our core principles. We will advance these core principles, through sustained member efforts, especially Instars and Emerge, that recruit, train, and grow a diverse community of future scientists, teachers, and freshwater leaders. 

This is your society, and we work to advance your efforts and celebrate your successes related to our mission. As we work together to address and adapt to these challenges, we will build a more resilient, committed, and focused scientific society. We encourage you to share with SFS leadership how the rapid federal policy changes are influencing your professional program(s) via this online form, or by reaching out to SFS leadership and/or committee members. We may share these voluntary stories on our website, with your permission. Our annual meetings will continue to highlight research on climate change and provide opportunities for advancing a diverse, equitable, and inclusive society. You can help us continue our Instars and Emerge student programs and assistance for early career professionals by providing donations to one of our funds related to these efforts (either by logging into your membership profile or using the PayPal QR code below), becoming a Society member, volunteering on any of our committees, or enhancing your commitment to our society and freshwater science in any way you can. In particular, we need your help to continue to grow the programs that enhance our capacity to do the best freshwater science in the most creative, diverse, and equitable way. Thanks for your support and your commitment to freshwater science!

We value and support you,

David B. Arscott, Ph.D.
SFS President  
     
Wilfred Wollheim, Ph.D.
SFS Vice President

Sally Entrekin, Ph.D.
SFS President-Elect

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