Elizabeth Sutton - Current Research in Freshwater Science

Liz Sutton has spent her career working to engage and inspire young people through STEM and environmental science education. In 2008 she transitioned into higher education, working as the assistant director and STEM Specialist for UWM College for Kids before developing a formal outreach department within the School of Freshwater Sciences with her at the helm. The School of Freshwater Sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee is the largest water-focused academic research institute on the Great Lakes and the only North American school of higher education solely dedicated to freshwater issues. Freshwater Science, also known as limnology, is the study of geological, chemical, physical, and biological interactions within aquatic systems such as streams, lakes, wetlands, and groundwater. It focuses on the importance of clean water for human survival and the economic value of freshwater resources, including benefits like fisheries, recreational use, and preservation of ecosystems. 

Throughout her life, Liz has been an enthusiastic traveler, seeking out every opportunity to experience the natural world. She enjoys sharing this passion with students and the community through her outreach work.

Liz states that "As manager of outreach, I have developed a water science program that regularly explores Milwaukee's rivers, Lake Michigan, and the ocean coasts. I serve as a liaison between the scientific researchers at the School of Freshwater Sciences and the Great Lakes communities that the School serves, communicating scientific findings and increasing water science literacy. This involves research-focused tours, presentations to community groups, and offering K-12th grade hands-on classroom activities." Other responsibilities include hosting the Wisconsin Regional Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) Competition through the Marine Advanced Technology Education (MATE) International Competition, as well as hosting the Lake Sturgeon Bowl, a regional competition of the National Ocean Sciences Bowl. She also leads professional development opportunities for teachers, connecting scientists to their research stakeholders, as well as developing the UWM Water Ambassador program which is a science communication and outreach training program for the graduate students at the School of Freshwater Sciences.

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https://uwm.edu/academics/programs/