Sep 29, 2026 6:00 PM
Optional Private Event for SBECO Rotary Members
Ocean and Human Health

Contact: Jenny Parker

Making Waves for a Healthier Community

Goal:

Inspire connections, raise visibility for San Diego State University’s ocean and water initiatives, and build support for faculty and student research driving local water health and a stronger community.

Hosted by: San Diego State University in the beautiful home of Drs. Janice and Matt Kurth

Estimated Attendance: 25-30 guests

Event Duration: 90 minutes

Format: Reception with Brief Ignite Talks by faculty & students, Q & A, and Networking

Description:

At San Diego State University, we are making waves for healthier communities — turning our leading ocean and water research into real-world action that protects our coastlines and strengthens our local community’s health.  Our faculty and students are addressing urgent challenges — from coastal pollution to clean and equitable water access — here in San Diego and regionally.

Join us for an inspiring evening of Making Waves for a Healthier Community:

  1. Hear from experts leading innovative projects focused on ocean health, clean water, and the health and wellbeing of both humans and marine life.
  2. Join the conversation through an engaging Q&A and mingle with researchers, students, and community members working together for a more sustainable future.

Event Details:

Date/Time: [Insert Date], 5:30–7:00 p.m.

Location: Home of Drs. Janice & Matt Kurth, La Jolla, CA

Attire: 

  • Wear blue (business casual!) to celebrate our shared commitment to water and healthy thriving communities (e.g., a shirt, hat, pants, scarf, shoes, shoelaces)
  • Leave your stilettos (or similar) at home due to the bamboo flooring.

Food & Beverage: Heavy appetizers, beer, wine & non-alcoholic beverages served throughout

Program Schedule (90 minutes total):

5:30 – 5:45 p.m. | Welcome Reception

  • Guests arrive and enjoy appetizers
  • Background music featuring ocean soundscapes
  • Informal mingling and introductions

5:45 – 6:15 p.m. | Dean’s Introduction & Faculty-Student Ignite Talks (4-6 minutes each)

  • Faculty Ignite Talk #1
  • Faculty Ignite Talk #2
  • Student Ignite Talk #1

6:15 – 6:35 p.m. | Q&A Session

  • Moderated discussion with all speakers
  • Audience questions encouraged

6:35 – 7:00 p.m. | Networking and Closing

  • Continued conversation with speakers and attendees
  • Dessert bites and refreshments