Kim Etsitty, a teacher at Navajo Pine High School in Gallup McKinley County Schools, has been selected as a 2024 Science Communication Fellow by the Ocean Exploration Trust (OET). Originally from Chinle, Arizona, Etsitty will be sailing on OET’s Exploration Vessel Nautilus this autumn as part of a team exploring deep-sea biology and geology within the Palau National Marine Sanctuary as part of a groundbreaking STEAM initiative.
Etsitty is one of 13 fellows from schools, science centers, and non-profit organizations across the Pacific and North America who were chosen for the program. She expressed excitement at the opportunity to connect with classrooms worldwide, discussing the importance of water and sharing Indigenous ecological knowledge to help restore lands and waters. Etsitty sees her selection as a chance to showcase the Diné worldview to leading scientists and inspire future Indigenous scientists.
During her time at sea, Etsitty will have the chance to engage with learners through NautilusLive.org. This experience will give her the platform to share her insights and experiences with a global audience.
