The Florida Institute of Oceanography (FIO) congratulates Dr. William “Monty” Graham on his appointment as the next director of the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC). After nearly four years of transformative leadership at FIO, Dr. Graham leaves behind an organization that is stronger, more visible, and better equipped to lead the future of ocean science.
Dr. Graham’s tenure marked a defining era for FIO rooted in strategic growth, community engagement, and national impact. From leading the creation of impactful programs to acquiring state-of-the-art research infrastructure, he redefined what a state-wide marine science consortium can accomplish.
Since stepping into the role of director in 2021, Dr. Graham has expanded FIO’s reach and reputation. He grew the consortium to 35 member institutions, strengthening collaborative ties across Florida and beyond. He fostered active partnerships across universities, state and federal agencies, non-profits, and private industry, ensuring resources were tightly linked to real-world needs and opportunities.
One of his most impactful contributions was leading the transition of FIO from an Academic Infrastructure Support Organization (AISO) under the Florida State University System’s Board of Governors to an official University of South Florida (USF) Institute. The move to a USF Institute was made possible by an agile five-year strategic plan and support at the state and university levels.
Transforming Access to the Ocean
Dr. Graham brought to FIO a deep understanding of the importance of access to the ocean. That vision became reality with the acquisition of the iconic twin-hulled research vessel Western Flyer, a gift made possible through FIO’s national network and with strong support from USF leadership and the City of St. Petersburg. A former flagship of the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI), the Western Flyer has been refitted to serve Florida students and researchers as a floating classroom and deep-sea research platform.
Complementing the vessel is ROV Taurus, a cutting-edge remotely operated vehicle capable of reaching depths of 4,000 meters. Under Dr. Graham’s leadership, FIO led the development of the advanced underwater vehicle in partnership with Pelagic Research Services. The project was made possible through a coalition of national support, including funding and operational backing from the Office of Naval Research and the Schmidt Ocean Institute. This collaboration represents a rare convergence of federal, philanthropic, and private-sector investment to create the only deep-sea ROV at a public university within the continental U.S. with its unique capabilities available for use by students and researchers. It’s a prime example of Dr. Graham’s ability to unite diverse sectors to accomplish ambitious goals that benefit not only the scientific community, but also the students, educators, and curious minds who will explore the ocean’s depths through ROV Taurus‘s livestreams.
New Pathways for Students and the Public
Beyond research infrastructure, Dr. Graham believed in preparing the next generation of mariners, ocean scientists and storytellers. He launched Peerside, FIO’s flagship workforce development initiative designed to provide students with year-round, hands-on training in ocean science and maritime careers. Under his direction, Peerside evolved from concept to program that paired mentorship with fieldwork to ensure students gain not only knowledge, but access and opportunity.
He also created Honoring the Ocean, a collaborative program for Honors College students across multiple institutions. This innovative experience blends marine science, cultural understanding, and environmental stewardship, giving students a deeper appreciation of both coastal systems and the communities that depend on them. As with all of his efforts, the program reflects Dr. Graham’s belief that education should be immersive, interdisciplinary, and inclusive.
A Legacy of Vision and Action
Dr. Graham’s impact at FIO is hard to overstate. From increasing federal funding and growing staff capacity to establishing a new identity for FIO as a nimble, forward-thinking institute, he reoriented the organization toward ocean science leadership on a national stage.
As he departs for SERC, Dr. Graham brings with him not just experience, but a unique ability to see across boundaries and build coalitions that make big ideas possible. We thank Monty for his extraordinary leadership, his unwavering commitment to students and science, and the legacy of collaboration he leaves behind. The future of FIO and ocean science in Florida is stronger because of his time here. We wish him all the best as he embarks on this exciting new chapter.
