History of Women in Science

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science, observed each year on 11 February, was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2015 to recognize the critical role women and girls play in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics—and to address the persistent gender gaps that limit their full participation. Rooted in decades of global advocacy by women scientists, educators, and international organizations, the Day emerged from growing evidence that structural barriers, bias, and unequal access to education and leadership continued to exclude women from scientific careers, including ocean sciences.

While women have always contributed to ocean knowledge—often invisibly as observers, data collectors, educators, and community knowledge holders—their work was historically underrecognized and underdocumented. The Day serves both as a celebration of achievements and a call to action, encouraging governments, institutions, and scientific communities to create inclusive, equitable environments where women and girls can thrive. In ocean sciences in particular, it highlights the importance of diverse perspectives in understanding and protecting the ocean, sustaining fisheries, and responding to climate change—affirming that the future of the ocean depends on the full and equal participation of women.

To learn more about Women In Ocean Science please see this link.

History of Women in Leadership in GCFI

The Gulf and Caribbean Fisheries Institute (GCFI) was founded in 1947 and for 37 years, GCFI operated as an informal association under the sponsorship of the University of Miami. In 1985, with encouragement from the University, GCFI became an independent not-for profit corporation formally dedicated to its original purposes.

Dr. Dalila Aldana Aranda was appointed as the first Woman Chair of the GCFI Board of Directors in 2008 which paved the way for Dr. Graciela García-Moliner in 2013 and Nancy Brown-Peterson in 2015. In 2025, Fadilah Ali was appointed as the first female Executive Director of GCFI.