Born: 1961
Dawn Jeannine Wright is an American geographer and oceanographer who has made significant contributions to the field of ocean and coastal science. She is widely regarded as a leading authority in the application of geographic information system (GIS) technology to the study of the oceans.
Born on April 15, 1961, Wright’s early passion for the environment and the ocean led her to pursue a career in scientific research. She graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in geology from Wheaton College in 1983. She went on to earn a Master of Science in oceanography from Texas A&M University in 1986. Determined to further her knowledge and expertise, Wright obtained an Individual Interdisciplinary Ph.D. in Physical Geography and Marine Geology from the University of California, Santa Barbara in 1994.
Throughout her career, Wright has achieved numerous milestones and garnered recognition for her groundbreaking work. She played a key role in the development of the first GIS data model for the oceans, revolutionizing the way marine data is collected, analyzed, and visualized. This groundbreaking achievement has had a profound impact on the field of oceanography and has paved the way for future advancements.
Wright’s dedication to her craft and her passion for exploration have led her to unique and historic accomplishments. She made history as the first African-American female to dive to the ocean floor in the deep submergence vehicle ALVIN. This remarkable feat not only showcased her fearlessness but also shattered barriers and opened doors for future generations of female scientists.
On July 12, 2022, Wright achieved another historic milestone by becoming the first and only Black person to dive to Challenger Deep, the deepest point on Earth. Not only did she reach this extraordinary depth, but she also successfully operated a sidescan sonar at full-ocean depth, further expanding our understanding of the underwater landscape.
Wright’s contributions extend beyond her research and exploration endeavors. She has been a dedicated educator and mentor, serving as a professor of geography and oceanography at Oregon State University since 1995. Recognized for her excellence in teaching, she was honored as the Oregon Professor of the Year by the Council for the Advancement and Support of Education and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching.
In addition to her role as an educator, Wright has held various leadership positions and has been actively involved in influential scientific organizations. She has served on the National Academy of Sciences Ocean Studies Board, the Science Advisory Board of NOAA, the Science Advisory Board of the EPA, and the National Council of the American Association of Geographers. Her expertise and insights have been sought after by these organizations, shaping policies and advancing the field of marine science.
Wright’s accomplishments have not gone unnoticed, and she has received several awards and recognitions for her significant contributions to the field. In 2007, she was honored with a Distinguished Alumna Award from the University of California, Santa Barbara. This award served as a testament to her outstanding achievements and her impact on the scientific community.
Throughout her career, Dawn Wright has been a trailblazer, breaking barriers and inspiring future generations of scientists. Her work has not only expanded our understanding of the oceans but has also highlighted the importance of diversity and representation in the field. As a prominent African-American female scientist, she has played a pivotal role in women’s history, serving as a source of inspiration and empowerment for aspiring scientists around the world.
Awards:
– Distinguished Alumna Award from the University of California, Santa Barbara (2007)