Alumni Update

Ben Gowell, Stang Class of 2021, is studying Marine Sciences at The University of New England. This summer the was awarded $5,000 from the Quahog Bay Conservancy to conduct summer research using acoustic telemetry to  track striped bass in the Saco River and Saco Bay.

Gowell’s journey into marine science research began during his sophomore year when he joined a lab at UNE as a volunteer. Initially drawn to the lab for his love of fishing, he soon became deeply involved in fieldwork, coding, and data analysis.

His time in the lab inspired him to pursue a master’s degree through UNE’s Marine Programs 4+1 B.S./M.S. program, where his work on striped bass forms the first chapter of his thesis. “It takes an extremely motivated and committed student to successfully complete an accelerated 4+1 M.S. degree,” his professor said. “Ben’s strong work ethic and relentless scientific curiosity is exactly what the 4+1 program is designed for.”

Gowell’s work highlights the importance of undergraduate research experiences in addressing pressing environmental and ecological issues, like ensuring sustainable fisheries for future generations.

We can’t wait to see what Ben continues to accomplish!