Biography:
Alison (she/her) is focused on Diversity and inclusion, STEM education, Early childhood education, Community engagement, Accessibility.
Alison grew up in New Jersey, but her love of the ocean has carried her around the globe—from completing her undergraduate degree in California to conducting field and laboratory-based research on sea turtles in Costa Rica, humpback whales in Hawaii, manatees in Belize, and yellow perch in Ohio. She later earned her graduate degree in Australia, further strengthening her passion for marine conservation.
Joining Mote in 2017 as an Education Specialist in the Community Engagement Program, Alison started her Mote career delivering engaging, STEM-based programming to underrepresented and underserved audiences in the community. She now serves as the Community Programs Manager, overseeing community education initiatives across Sarasota and Manatee Counties and beyond. With her strong background in marine research and broad knowledge of ocean science, Alison is dedicated to translating Mote’s current research into accessible, inclusive, meaningful, and inspiring learning experiences for ocean-lovers of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.
Education:
B.S. Aquatic Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara
Master of Environmental Management (focus on Conservation Biology), University of Queensland, Australia
Additional Publications
River-plume use during the pelagic larval stage benefits recruitment of a lentic fish. Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Science 2010
National Geographic Educator Certification