Sensing Volcanoes Recognized in Prestigious University of Oxford Vice-Chancellor’s Awards
The Montserrat Volcano Observatory (MVO) is proud to announce that the “Sensing Volcanoes: Public and Community Engagement with Volcanic Risk” initiative has been recognized in the prestigious University of Oxford Vice-Chancellor’s Awards. This collaborative effort, involving the University of East Anglia, the University of Oxford, the University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre, and the MVO, has been commended for its outstanding contributions to research and community engagement.
The Vice-Chancellor’s Awards celebrate achievements across the University of Oxford, recognizing those who enrich their research through engagement with external communities, thereby benefiting broader society. In 2024, the awards saw 250 entries, with 65 nominations shortlisted and presented at a showcase event at the Weston Library from Tuesday, 7 May to Thursday, 9 May 2024.
The “Sensing Volcanoes” project received particular acclaim for its innovative public and community engagement initiatives under the Curating Crises Project, led by Professor Jenni Barclay and co-led by Professor David Pyle. This included an exhibit at the Royal Society Summer of Science, four Montserrat community murals, several websites sharing researched historical and cultural information, and a short documentary commissioned by the MVO. Through these efforts, the project ensured that complex scientific information was effectively communicated to local communities.
MVO volcanologist Dr. Karen Pascal and Education and Outreach Coordinator Thiffanie Williams played crucial roles in bridging the gap between scientific research and public understanding. They organized educational programs, conducted workshops, and led interactive sessions to engage the Montserrat community. Their work emphasized the importance of proactive engagement and open dialogue in effective communication.
The MVO is honored to be part of this recognition, which underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in advancing scientific understanding and community preparedness in the face of volcanic risks. We are thrilled to share this achievement with our local collaborators such as the Montserrat Secondary School, the Montserrat National Trust, the Montserrat Public Library, and many other government departments and private organizations. We also extend our gratitude to our international collaborators for their support and funding.
