This summer, we were honored to welcome U.S. Congressman Scott Peters and Lynn Gorguze back to Ocean Discovery Institute’s Living Lab, where they experienced firsthand how students are discovering a future in science.
For more than two decades, Scott and Lynn have been steadfast champions of Ocean Discovery Institute. Their support has extended far beyond financial contributions. Lynn has generously shared her leadership through service on our Finance Committee, their family has been a familiar presence at our events for years, their son-in-law, Conor, serves on our SPLASH! Committee, and together they have invested in creating opportunities for thousands of young people. Their commitment is even reflected in the Living Lab itself through the Gorguze/Peters Family Kitchen, a space that brings students, families, and community together every day.
Lynn gets a hands-on lesson from our students as they show her how to maneuver their ROVs
During their visit, Scott and Lynn joined elementary summer campers as they built and tested Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), experiencing the curiosity, teamwork, and problem-solving that define our hands-on science programs. They also spent time with our 9th-grade Ocean Leaders, learning how students continue their STEM journey through authentic scientific research, mentorship, and long-term opportunities that prepare them for college and careers.
U.S. Congressman Scott Peters joined our 9th graders during their Community Circle and shared about his career pathway
Their connection to Ocean Discovery Institute began more than 20 years ago when Scott, then serving on the San Diego City Council, helped secure one of the organization’s very first grants. That early investment helped lay the foundation for what has grown into a tuition-free, long-term pathway that now reaches thousands of students each year.
Returning to see students exploring engineering, conducting research, and building confidence in science is a powerful reminder of what long-term community investment can achieve. Scott and Lynn’s continued presence sends an important message to every young person they meet: you belong in science, your ideas matter, and your community believes in your potential.
We are deeply grateful to Scott and Lynn for their enduring partnership and friendship. Their family’s commitment has helped shape Ocean Discovery Institute’s past, strengthens our work today, and continues to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and leaders.
From the first investment to today’s opportunities, every chapter has been written with one purpose: creating a future where every student belongs in science.