August 14, 2025
Annie Crawley (BS ’90, journalism) was one of two recipients to win the University of Illinois Alumni Association’s 2025 Illini Comeback Award.
Crawley, a.k.a. “Ocean Annie,” is a pioneering underwater filmmaker, environmental photojournalist, author, and ocean advocate whose career spans more than three decades.
She has become a driving force for ocean literacy, exploration and conservation through immersive storytelling and education. She founded “Dive Into Your Imagination”—a series of award-winning illustrated books and award-winning DVDs that have reached global audiences, inspiring millions to care for and become a voice for oceans.
The College of Media is hosting a special screening of Crawley’s film The Island of the Shark, Guardians of Malpelo, followed by a Q&A with Crawley on Wednesday, Sept. 24, at 4:30 p.m. at Spurlock Musem. The event is free and open to the public. Participants may also join by registering for the Zoom link.
Crawley’s recent work includes ocean-themed visual compositions for symphonies with renowned composer Stella Sung—merging science, music, and art to spotlight noise, chemical, and sound pollution. Her latest documentary, The Island of the Shark: Guardians of Malpelo, highlights shark conservation and the fight against illegal fishing in Colombia.
As a columnist for Scuba Diving Magazine and an in-demand speaker, Crawley challenges us to dive deeper—to hear the ocean’s story and recognize the role we all play in the ocean’s future.
Since 1980, when the Illini Comeback Award was established, the UIAA has invited prominent and accomplished alumni back to the campus to participate in various activities during Homecoming Weekend.
Honorees are provided opportunities to interact with current students and share information about their professional experiences and the value of their University of Illinois education.
UIAA Alumni Awards will be presented in conjunction with Homecoming Week, September 21-27.
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