The Society wishes to announce the extremely sad news that Ruth Gates, the Society’s President, passed away last week in Hawaii. Ruth was Director of the Hawai’i Institute of Marine Biology at the University of Hawai’i, Manoa.
As some members will know, Ruth discovered earlier in the year that she was suffering from cancer. It was hoped that with her characteristic determination she would be able to overcome this condition, but it was not to be. It is hard to believe that someone with such energy lost her fight and is no longer with us.
As officers and council members will confirm, Ruth was the most dedicated and active of Presidents, supporting numerous initiatives which have resulted in a new phase of development for the Society. We shall miss her greatly and extend our condolences to her partner, Robin. Officers and Council are considering what initiative we might take to best mark her memory.
