In Memoriam Announcement – Mary Newton Lima
January 24, 1970 — October 5, 2025
It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Mary Newton Lima, Assistant Director for Administration at MIT Sea Grant. Mary passed away on October 5, 2025, and is survived by her husband, Dr. Ivan Lima, their two children, and her parents and brother. She will be greatly missed by our team and by all who had the privilege of working with her across MIT, the Sea Grant community, and the network of researchers and collaborators she helped bring together.
Mary started with MIT Sea Grant in early 2020 as the program’s Research Coordinator, administrating our annual research funding competition, facilitating fellowships, and charting the path forward through strategic planning. She was instrumental in starting new programs including the Massachusetts Sea Grant Graduate Research Fellowship in partnership with WHOI Sea Grant, as well as our STREAM Award program – Solutions Through Research, Education & Art in Massachusetts. Each year, Mary took the time to meet individually with dozens of potential applicants, providing guidance and collaborative support to all. Mary’s patience and dedication shined through her daily commitment to the people and programs she stewarded.
“Mary was a deeply valued and trusted colleague at MIT Sea Grant. Working alongside her was both a privilege and a joy,” says Michael Triantafyllou, MIT Sea Grant Director. “We were all fortunate to experience her unwavering dedication, genuine warmth, and exceptional professionalism.”
We will long miss Mary’s wholeheartedness, wit, and willingness to help at a moment’s notice. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with her family and friends during this difficult time.
From Mary’s Obituary: In lieu of flowers, Mary requested (absolutely on-brand) that donations be made to the American Elasmobranch Society https://elasmo.org/. Mary stays with us by continuing to educate us about her passion for the interconnectedness of all life.
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