e-SML October 2006

Before SML Summer 2006 becomes a distant memory, I want to
note some highlights. Ten undergraduates participated in Research Experience for Under-
graduates and four in our new program, Island Engineering Internships for Sustainability.
Both programs will continue next year. We offered 14 college credit courses and en-
rolled 173 (up from 157 in 2005). Adult education enrollments also increased. As the fi-
nancial condition of SML continues to improve, I am especially proud of the SML Fac-
ulty and Staff for their hard work to deliver our excellent programs and courses.

Nearly 100 people attended Fall Volunteer Weekend, and beautiful weather made it
possible to complete many projects. New built-in cabinets in Kiggins will help us orga-
nize coffee, toasters, cereals and other ‘round the clock items, and the newly refinished
floor – together with new lighting and fans – will make it even more pleasant to dine in
Kiggins. We also finished installing new electrical service to our buildings, work made
possible by an award from the National Science Foundation.

SML Summer 2007 promises to be an exciting year, with many new courses and pro-
grams. On Monday October 16, 22 people attended our Annual Meeting of the Faculty
and Staff of Shoals Marine Lab on the Cornell Campus. We reviewed SML Summer
2006, projections for our CY2007 budget, and plans for timing and space assignments
for the new courses proposed for next year. On Wednesday, SML Staff attended our
Annual Planning Retreat to plan for next summer and discuss recent changes in staffing
and organization of our Ithaca Office. Former SML Director of Development and Exter-
nal Relations, Mary Benetti, has moved on to serve as Director of Development for the
Cornell Catholic Community. Former SML Business Manager Kay Stickane is stepping
into a leadership position in the College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, where she will
work with Don Viands, Associate Dean and Director of Academic Programs. We miss
both Mary and Kay, and wish them the very best in their new positions here at Cornell.

With the new season, SML Project Manager Ross Hansen and I are focusing on Creek
Farm. Before winter sets in, we will repair two porches and begin the architectural re-
view needed for the new programs we will establish there by Summer 2008.

I wish you the very best possible autumn and holiday season.

Sincerely,


William E. Bemis
Kingsbury Director of Shoals Marine Laboratory