James Centorino Award

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This award was named in the memory of Jim Centorino, an inspirational and passionate marine educator who taught at Salem State College, co-founded the Massachusetts Marine Educators and later the National Marine Education Association. In the mid 80s Jim died from cancer. He continues to be remembered by students and colleagues. Through this award, we at NMEA continue to remember his contributions to marine education.

This award is given for distinguished performance in marine education by professionals who are not classroom teachers. Only NMEA members are eligible. Participation in NMEA is an important consideration.

The Awards Committee considers a candidate’s major contributions, including outstanding leadership, programs developed, and participation in marine education organizations, over a five year period.

The recipient receives a one-year NMEA membership.
2022 Linda Chilton (CA)
2021 None
2020 None
2019 Craig Strang (CA)
2018 Lynn Whitley (CA)
2017 None
2016 Lisa Ayers Lawrence (VA)
2015 Diana Payne (CT)
2014 None
2013 Meg Marrero (NY)
2012 Sarah Schoedinger (NC)
2011 None
2010 None
2009 Sylvia Spalding (HI)
2008 Maryellen ("Mare") Timmons (GA)
2007 Rick Tinnin (TX)
2006 Janice McDonnell (NJ)
2005 Thaxter Tewksbury (CT)
2004 J. Adam Frederick (MD)
2003 Valerie Chase (MD)
2002 Hugo Freudenthal (NY)
2001 Gloria Snively (BC, Canada)
2000 John Dindo (AL)
1999 Sarah V. Mitchell (GA)
1998 Andy Wood (NC)
1997 Michael Spranger (WA) and Megan Jones (HI)
1996 Sharon Meeker (NH)
1995 Sharon H. Walker (MS)
1994 Terri L. Kirby (NC)
1993 Bill Hastie (OR)
1992 Bruce Stewart (CA) and Lee Lawrence (VA)
1991 Cynthia Stong (OH)
1990 Barbara Klemm (HI)
1989 Vicki Clark (VA)
1988 Rob Moir (MA)
1987 Inka Milewski (NB, Canada)
1986 Lindy Millman (DE)
1985 Jeff Sandler & Deb Hall (MN)
1984 Cynthia Hancock (FL)