13 Sharing Geology: Building the Geocommunity Through Creative Engagement

Explore how geology connects with communities beyond research. Share strategies for public engagement, volunteerism, education, and advocacy. We welcome diverse approaches, including research, teaching, service, creativity, and communication that bridge science and society.

Sunday, 22 March 2026
1:30 PM - 5:30 PM
CCC, Room 26

The Geological Society of Connecticut, a Volunteer Organization Advancing Geology and Geoscience Education Across Our State

Paper number: 13-6
Program: Technical Sessions
Time: 3:15 PM – 3:35 PM

Authors

Abstract

The Geological Society of Connecticut was founded in 2009 to advance the science of geology and provide educational outreach to the public about the geology of the state. To achieve these dual objectives the Society holds annual meetings and field trips, open to the public, which include presentations by local experts. Some examples of past topics include Connecticut’s real Jurassic Park, Paleozoic tectonics, dynamic surface environments, terroir exemplified by the CT Wine Trail, and deep roots imaged by the SEISConn project. The Society also sponsors student research by awarding an annual grant to support projects that focus on the geology of Connecticut and recognizes those who have contributed to our understanding of the geology of the state through scholarship, education, and service by awarding the Joe Web Peoples Award. Since 2022 the Society has sent out a bi-monthly news blast to help inform Society members about upcoming geological activities and opportunities across the state. Society membership includes a mix of professionals, students, and non-geoscientists. Over the last five years total membership has ranged between 108 and 122 members with 20-29 student members. All Society activities are organized by a board of directors made up of eleven professional geologists who work in or are retired from careers in academia, government, or industry. The Society thus plays an important role connecting and informing diverse professional, student, and public communities about the geology of our state.

Geological Society of America Abstracts with Programs. Vol. 58, No. 2

doi: 10.1130/abs/2026NE-411464

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