Galveston College biology instructor Jacquelyn Cresswell, Ph.D., contributed to ongoing marine research efforts at the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary (FGBNMS) as part of a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)-led expedition last summer that was featured in a Houston-area television special.
 
Cresswell, who teaches courses in biology, science and business at Galveston College, joined a research team aboard an offshore mission in the Gulf of Mexico in summer 2024. The project focused on studying and protecting the vibrant ecosystems of the Flower Garden Banks, one of the healthiest coral reef systems in the continental United States.
 
“It was an incredible opportunity to be part of this mission and to help communicate the value of our marine resources,” said Cresswell. “This kind of work not only supports critical conservation efforts, but also inspires the next generation of scientists, many of whom are right here at Galveston College.”
 
In March 2025, Cresswell shared highlights from the research expedition with the GC campus community during a luncheon presentation, offering insight into the sanctuary’s scientific work and emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in advancing marine conservation.
 
The broader work of the NOAA Flower Garden Banks team, including the expedition Cresswell participated in, was featured in a special television program that aired across Houston in April. The program, produced in partnership with NOAA Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary, Moody Gardens, and KPRC-TV, brought viewers aboard the research vessel and offered an immersive look at the sanctuary’s efforts.
 
Hosted by KPRC Chief Meteorologist and Houston media personality Anthony Yanez, the television special, “Garden in the Gulf: A Reef Rescue Mission,” showcased the beauty and scientific significance of the Flower Garden Banks. Yanez accompanied the research team offshore, sharing their work with viewers.
 
The program focused on key themes such as community, partnerships, the economy, science, and resource protection, demonstrating the far-reaching impact of marine research on the Gulf Coast and beyond. The full segment is available on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/_gZd-mNLEfw?si=x-QF8kyOTdMH7J5S).
 
Cresswell’s involvement in the expedition underscores GC’s commitment to providing students with opportunities that connect classroom learning to real-world science. By participating with NOAA and the sanctuary team, she brings valuable hands-on experience back to her students, helping them understand how science, policy and community engagement are all involved in protecting vital natural resources.
 
For more information about GC’s Biology program, call 409-944-4242 or visit www.gc.edu.
 

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Galveston College was founded in 1967 and is a comprehensive community college providing the residents of Galveston Island and the surrounding region with academic, workforce development, continuing education and community service programs.