The Call for Proposals for the 2026 conference will open January 1, 2026
Concurrent Sessions are the heart of NMEA Conference programming. We are excited to have educators, researchers, explorers, writers, artists, conservation managers, and anyone with a passion for the world of water share that passion by presenting a concurrent session at the 2026 annual conference, “Meeting of the Waters.” Sessions at the 2026 Conference will align with the mission and goals of NMEA.
Submissions are due by February 28 for the 2026 conference. Applicants will be notified of their acceptance status by April 1, prior to registration opening. Please email nmea2026@marine-ed.org with any questions.
Presentation Formats
Presenters may present in-person or asynchronously at this year's conference:
In-Person Presentations: All presenters must register and attend the in-person conference to present in these sessions.
Asynchronous Presentations: This is the only presentation format available for those attending the conference remotely who would like to present. All presenters of this format must register as asynchronous presenters.
In-person Presentation Session Formats
Full Session: 50-minute presentations (includes questions) from one or more speakers. We encourage submissions of interactive or hands-on sessions.
Half Session: 30-minute presentations (includes questions) from one or more speakers on Wednesday, July 15, 2026 ONLY. We encourage submissions of interactive or hands-on sessions.
Lightning Session: One speaker each limited to 15-minute presentations including questions, grouped by topic.
Poster: Posters will be available for viewing all day Monday and until the end of lunch on Tuesday. Authors will be available to present their posters on Monday, July 13, 2026, 2:10-3:00pm.
Share-a-Thon: This is an interactive networking session celebrating 50 years of sharing best practices and resources in marine education, scheduled for Wednesday, July 15, 2026, 1:45-2:45pm. Attendees may provide free educational materials and giveaways, but sales and promotional materials are strictly prohibited.
Outdoor Option: The conference venue allows easy access to the shore of the Choptank River. Sessions can/are encouraged to have an outdoor component. One session room, closest to the door outside, can be designated for the “outdoor” sessions as an indoor back up/meeting location.
Asynchronous Presentation Session Format
Pre-recorded presentations: 15- to 30-minute pre-recorded presentations will be
Presentation Session Tracks
This year we looking for sessions that fall into the following tracks:
Lesson Plans - focuses on high-quality, classroom-ready instructional materials that bring marine and environmental science to life for learners of all ages
Blue Technologies - showcases cutting-edge technologies that are transforming our understanding and stewardship of ocean and coastal systems
Evaluation & Research - features current studies, program evaluations, and evidence-based practices that advance our understanding of teaching, learning, and engagement in coastal and marine contexts
Field Experiences/Outdoor Learning - highlights immersive, hands-on learning opportunities that connect participants directly with coastal and marine environment
Program Development - explores effective strategies for designing, implementing, and sustaining high-quality marine and environmental education programs
Career Pathways - explores the diverse and evolving career opportunities available across the marine and environmental sciences
Blue Justice & Equity - highlight approaches that elevate diverse voices, honor community knowledge, and foster inclusive participation