Meet Darlene West
As a self-professed "water baby," Darlene was drawn to living near the water, describing it as one of her "happy places."
Meet Delaney Hodder
Delaney Hodder was first exposed to Florida Oceanographic Society while attending summer camp at age 10. In 2022, she took part in the Florida Oceanographic Teen Ambassador Program, learning about the effects of climate change on our oceans and the role we play in advocating for change.
Meet Education Exhibit Guide Susan Wesslen
Retired educator Susan Wesslen adds a special touch to the experiences guests have at Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center.
Meet Fred Speaker
With a background in Water Supply in the Marine Corps and a deep interest in the environment, Fred saw volunteering as an opportunity to make a difference.
Meet “Jack of All Trades” Phil Dakin
Everywhere Phil Dakin has lived, he has volunteered with local nonprofit environmental groups. When he moved to Stuart three years ago, he saw Florida Oceanographic as his next great opportunity to help his local community.
Meet Jim Jurgaitis : The Man with Many Hats
For someone who professes to not have any special skills, Jim Jurgaitis wears many hats at Florida Oceanographic as a volunteer. He started his volunteer work doing beach and highway clean-ups, then progressed to oyster bagging.
Meet Karen Tine
As a retired boat captain, Karen has always been drawn to the water, but her previous work as a chemical technician helped her realize the role she could play as a volunteer for Florida Oceanographic.
Meet Lisa Peery
Lisa Peery and her husband, Steve, both grew up in Florida and loved living in Jupiter. But moving from Connecticut back to the Sunshine State after retirement, they wanted to find more of the ‘Old Florida’ feel. That decision led them to the Treasure Coast.
Meet Lois and John Timpanaro
“We have always been a fishing and boating family,” Lois says. “We are very much aware of protecting our waterways and surrounding areas.”
Meet Lucas DaSilva
Inspired by his older brother's role as a Teen Ambassador with Florida Oceanographic, Lucas began volunteering in 2021, amassing over 60 hours to date.
Meet Marc Teplitz
Marc Teplitz and his family moved to Stuart in 1996 from California. His son and daughter grew up concerned and involved with environmental issues and spent years as campers and then as counselors at the Environmental Study Center. “They taught me about our local sea life and sparked my interest…
Meet Mary Alexander
Mary Alexander heard about Florida Oceanographic Society from a friend. After they both attended a volunteer information session in January 2021, they decided it was the place for them.
Meet Merit Wallace
In recent years, amidst the chaos of being a nurse practitioner, Merit Wallace found solace in the outdoors, a sanctuary amidst the pandemic. Realizing the importance of habitat preservation, she sought ways to give back.
Meet Michele & Gil McClurg
“The people here make volunteering fun and educational,” says Michele. “Everyone is friendly, supportive and truly appreciates whatever you do.” As a team the McClurgs have accumulated close to 400 volunteer hours.
Meet Mover and Shucker Katherine Ward
Katherine Ward moved to Stuart in 2013, and over the years, she has enjoyed bringing her family to the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center. Her interest in preserving and protecting our beautiful south Florida waterways is what drew her to volunteer at Florida Oceanographic.
Meet Nell Brewer
In conversations with guests, Nell is continuously motivated by their enthusiasm and impressed by how much they know and care about the natural world. “It’s great to share fun-facts about the animals and the coastal habitats and have meaningful conversations with guests of all ages.”
Meet Our Ocean Protectors
Get an up-close view of the marine vessels and the people who protect our coastal community with members of FWC, NOAA and the Martin County Sheriff's Office.
