If you work in GIS, marine science, or environmental sustainability, you’ve probably heard of Dawn Wright. Known as “Deepsea Dawn”, she’s not only an exceptional scientist but also a trailblazer who bridges GIS technology and ocean exploration.
A Career That Inspires
Dawn Wright’s achievements span decades, blending oceanography, geographic information science (GIS), and innovation. Currently, as Chief Scientist at Esri, she plays a pivotal role in strengthening the scientific foundation behind Esri’s tools while connecting the company to the global research community.
Before her Esri tenure, Dawn built a rich academic career at Oregon State University, where she remains a Professor of Geography and Oceanography. Her work has pushed the boundaries of seafloor mapping, tectonics, and marine conservation.
Her credentials speak volumes:
- PhD in Physical Geography and Marine Geology from UC Santa Barbara
- MS in Oceanography from Texas A&M University
- A BS in Geology cum laude from Wheaton College
A Champion for Ocean Sustainability
Dawn is not just about maps—she’s about the planet. Her focus on ocean conservation and sustainable marine practices has led her to high-impact roles, including her current appointment as U.S. Science Envoy for Ocean Sustainability. Whether it’s mapping the ocean floor or advocating for global environmental policies, Dawn is an unwavering voice for our oceans.
Breaking Barriers and Setting Records
Dawn is also a pioneer in every sense of the word. She holds the distinction of being the first Black woman to dive to Challenger Deep, the deepest part of the ocean. This milestone isn’t just a personal achievement—it symbolizes breaking barriers and inspiring future scientists, especially women and minorities.
The Scientist Behind the Maps
At Esri, Dawn’s role goes beyond leadership. She’s a key figure in integrating scientific principles into GIS software, ensuring that tools like ArcGIS help solve real-world challenges. Her research and publications, ranging from tsunami modeling to marine spatial planning, have redefined how we approach ocean data and spatial analysis.
Her work has been widely published, with notable studies like Tracking the Great Whales and SeaSketch for Oil Spill Response, further demonstrating her commitment to turning data into actionable insights.
An Advocate and Educator
Dawn’s influence stretches far beyond the lab. Through blogs, speaking engagements, and mentorship, she shares her knowledge with GIS professionals, oceanographers, and environmental advocates. Whether through her engaging articles on Esri platforms or as an affiliated professor, Dawn remains dedicated to educating the next generation of scientists.
Her passion for science communication can be seen on her social channels (@deepseadawn), where she adds personality to complex scientific topics—often mixing fun with facts about oceans, maps, and even SpongeBob SquarePants 🌊.
Why Dawn Wright Deserves Celebration
Dawn Wright is more than a GIS leader; she’s a role model, a scientist, and a changemaker. Her groundbreaking contributions to oceanography, her leadership at Esri, and her advocacy for sustainability remind us of the impact one person can make.
She has turned data into understanding, maps into solutions, and her passion into progress.
Thank you, Dawn, for inspiring us to explore, conserve, and map the wonders of our world 🌍. Your work changes the game—for science, technology, and the oceans we all share.
