Dear MARMAM subscribers, The American Cetacean Society Student Coalition (ACSSC) is the student arm of the American Cetacean Society (ACS), the world's oldest whale conservation organization. After 50 years ACS continues to be a leader in the field of cetacean education, conservation, policy, and education ( http://acsonline.org/). The ACSSC is a community of aspiring researchers, policy makers, and enthusiasts committed to protecting the marine environment and the lives of cetaceans. Through direct action informed by science, ACSSC groups act as forums where students can learn more about cetaceans and their marine environment to carry out the most effective, research-based responses to the perils that cetaceans face. The ACSSC serves as a much needed bridge between the scientific community and the public. Our student groups use community education and citizen science to encourage conservation and scientific literacy in their communities. The Coalition works to provide students of all skill sets with support and access to a community of other young professionals, as well as guidance from established researchers and professionals. Student members of the ACSSC are provided with an opportunity to feel inspired, engaged, and empowered among an active community through a web of regional student groups across the country. We invite US university students to lead their own groups, whether they are coastal or landlocked. One of the benefits of joining the ACS National Student Coalition is the ability to network and collaborate with your peers in different disciplines and institutions to address the challenges that cetaceans face today. Leading your own ACS student coalition group can be very rewarding and fun. ACSSC activities have included: citizen science projects, water quality testing, cetacean research, oyster reef restoration, beach clean ups, guest speakers, panel discussions, documentary screenings, lobbying, fundraisers, and many social events. ACSSC groups have implemented campaigns focusing upon issues such as sustainable seafood and its impacts upon cetaceans, marine debris and entanglement, issues related to the captive industry, and more. ACSSC groups have successfully engaged with their local communities on region specific issues as well. For more information regarding what is involved in starting your own student coalition visit our website: http://acsonline.org/who-we-are/our-governance/chapters/student-coalition/ Like us on facebook to see our latest updates and campaign activities: ACSSC facebook: https://www.facebook.com/American-Cetacean-Society-Student-Coalition-ACSSC-1... If you are interested in starting your own group, email us at: acssc.national@gmail.com Scientists, supervisors, professors, etc., please refer your promising students to us. *Sabena Siddiqui * *MSc student University of Hawaii-Hilo* Student Chair American Cetacean Society *"P**rotecting whales, dolphins, porpoises, and their habitats through public education, research grants, and conservation actions.*" ACS website <http://acsonline.org/> ACS Student Coalition website <http://acsonline.org/who-we-are/our-governance/chapters/student-coalition/>