The mission of the funder, named in honor of the late John E. Sanders, is to support student research in the fields of coastal or environmental geology. Sanders, a sedimentologist and environmentalist, believed in the application of geologic principles to address environmental problems. His legacy continues through this fund aimed at advancing understanding in these critical areas of geology.
The James Lee Wilson Award, part of SEPM Foundation Inc.'s initiatives, celebrates "Excellence in Sedimentary Geology by a Young Scientist." This award embodies SEPM's dedication to recognizing significant contributions to sedimentary geology. It signals the foundation's support for student activities, publications, short courses, and research conferences, by raising and distributing funds to aid these areas in alignment with SEPM's broader mission to foster knowledge and professional growth within the geological sciences.