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MI honors alumni, faculty and exceptional service with awards

The Marine Institute presented its annual awards for alumni, teaching and exceptional service to three recipients during the graduation ceremony on June 19, 2026. This year’s recipients were Jonathan Chatman, Adam Courage, and Deborah Janes

Tuesday, June 23, 2026 By Madeline Meadus

Alumni Award

Jonathan Chatman, Manager of Operations with PAL Aerospace’s Division of Ice and Environmental Services, was this year’s recipient of the Marine Institute Alumni Award.

This award recognizes the accomplishments of MI alumni, their service to society, and their commitment to the MI and Memorial University communities.

Mr. Chatman graduated from MI’s Marine Environmental program in 2012 and the Master of Marine Studies (Marine Spatial Planning) program in 2021.

Graduation 2026 alumni award Jonathan Chatman story body

Beginning his career as an Offshore Ice and Environmental Observer, Mr. Chatman transitioned into an onshore role. In his current position, he oversees all onshore and offshore activities within his division.

Mr. Chatman’s colleagues describe him as “the kind of leader who makes the people around him better,” highlighting his dedication to ensuring all team members feel valued and included in the workplace.

As an alum, Mr. Chatman has remained engaged in the MI community. He has volunteered his time with the Marine Institute Advisory Committee.

He has also been a guest speaker in several first-year Marine Environmental classes, providing students with valuable insights on the program and potential career paths.

Dr. Peter Fisher Teaching and Learning Award

This award recognizes an instructor who has gone above and beyond in the pursuit of teaching and learning, innovation, and leadership at MI.

Adam Courage has been a dedicated member of the Marine Institute faculty for nearly 30 years.

After graduating from Memorial University’s Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical Engineering) and Master of Applied Science (Environmental Engineering) programs, he initially began his career as a consultant. In 1997, he joined the Marine Institute as an Instructor in the School of Maritime Studies.

Graduation 2026 teaching award Adam Courage story body

To colleagues and students, Mr. Courage is known for his commitment to teaching and student success. Several of his nomination letters highlight his open-door policy for students and ability to create tailored and engaging classroom materials.

Outside of the classroom, Mr. Courage has dedicated his time to numerous Academic Counsel subcommittees; contributing to curriculum development, academic standards, and program oversight. He is also the co-creator of the annual Machines Boot Camp, a comprehensive curriculum-aligned STEM experience for fifth grade students in the province.

In the words of one of Mr. Courage’s current students: “There is truly no instructor as welcoming, professional, and genuinely supportive as Adam Courage. His dedication to student learning and enthusiasm for teaching make him an outstanding candidate for this award.”

Exceptional Service Award

This award recognizes an employee who demonstrates exceptional service and makes significant contributions to MI and the university community beyond what is expected for their position.

This year’s recipient is Deborah Janes, Executive Assistant to the Deputy Provost (Marine Institute) and Executive Director (Professional and Continuing Education).

This year marks Ms. Janes’ 45th year of service to the Marine Institute. Throughout her years of service, she has supported several major units across campus. In her current role, she serves as the primary administrative contact for Deputy Provost office.

Graduation 2026 staff award Debbie Janes story body

Of her role, one nominator wrote that Ms. Janes is “the glue that holds our office together.”

Prior to her role in the Deputy Provost office, Ms. Janes played an integral role in the administration of MI’s growing degree programs and student service operations in the Office of Academic and Student Affairs.

As one colleague wrote in their nomination letter: “While the Marine Institute may be built of bricks and mortar, its true strength lies in its people, and Debbie Janes is unquestionably one of the individuals whose commitment and care have shaped the Institute into what it is today.”

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