Aquarium

Amanda Hodo

Amanda Hodo

Aquarium Biologist III + Diversity and Inclusion Advisor to the President & CEO

Amanda Felix is originally from Chicago's south side. She was a Mote intern in 2014, eventually becoming a full-time Aquarium staff member the following year. As an Aquarium Biologist III, Amanda provides care for several aquarium exhibits and co-manages the Fish and Invertebrate Department's intern program. She is passionate about encouraging young people of color to pursue careers in marine science and serving as a mentor in a variety of settings. She is a contributing member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Diversity Committee.

In late 2022, she began serving as Mote's Diversity and Inclusion Advisor to the President & CEO, in addition to her aquarium scientist role. She strives to build upon Mote's initiatives and models to increase participation and retention of underrepresented minorities in marine research and aquarium science.

Education

B.A. in Biology from Grinnell College

Awards & Honors

In 2018, Amanda was one of the four winners of AZA's "Find Our Heroes" Award, a nation-wide video submission contest that received over 95 submissions. She was featured in AZA's national campaign that aired February 2019.

AZA's 2023 Disney Diversity Advancement Scholarship