Dr. Thomas sees COSEE SouthEast as being catalytic in providing a venue for communication when working on issues
relating to diversity challenges. Throughout her work with partnerships is a focus on issues relating to
diversity - whether mentoring young women in ocean science, math and physics, or exploring Coastal Legacy
with COSEE SouthEast.
"The current ethnic/racial composition of the ocean sciences workforce does not represent the demographics of the
United States. COSEE SouthEast supports efforts to increase ocean awareness, ocean literacy and opportunities for
underrepresented populations to participate more fully in the ocean sciences." - COSEE SouthEast
