Welcome, Sophie! SBEP’s New Science and Outreach Specialist

As Science and Outreach Specialist for SBEP, she supports community events, volunteer programs, citizen science initiatives, and educational outreach efforts that make bay science accessible, engaging, and meaningful for people of all ages.

Below, Sophie answers a few questions about her experience and enthusiasm for marine science and outreach.

What inspired you to join our team, and what are you most excited about in your new role?

I was inspired to join the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program because of its incredible mission to protect and restore the health of Sarasota Bay. I’ve always had a deep love for the environment, and the opportunity to combine my passions for environmental science, education, and communication truly feels like a dream role. I first fell in love with estuaries during my time at the University of South Carolina, and I’ve always hoped to return to that kind of environment. Estuaries are incredibly biodiverse and complex ecosystems, and there is always something new to learn every time you ask a question about them. What excites me most about this role is the opportunity to share all the amazing work happening in our bay and connect with the community I now call home. From restoration projects to hands-on exploration, I’m excited to engage people of all ages and backgrounds and help inspire a deeper appreciation for the beautiful environment that surrounds us.

Can you share a little about your background and the experiences that led you here?

I got my bachelor’s degree in marine science, and some of my favorite courses focused on communicating science to others. I’ve always loved science and exploring the natural world, but during college I truly fell in love with ocean and environmental science and the importance of helping others connect with it as well.

I gained valuable experience communicating scientific topics to a wide range of audiences during my time as a Marine Science Instructor at the Catalina Island Marine Institute. That role taught me how rewarding it is to make science engaging, understandable, and exciting for people of all ages. One of my favorite parts of the job was seeing someone’s face light up when they learned something new and became excited to share it with others.

While at CIMI, I also worked on restoration projects and had the opportunity to connect students directly to the science behind those efforts. Those experiences showed me how powerful education and outreach can be in inspiring people to care about and protect the environment.

All of those experiences led me to this role, which feels like the perfect blend of science, communication, education, and community outreach. I’m excited to help connect people to Sarasota Bay and encourage everyone to become involved in protecting and appreciating our local environment.

What’s one project, skill, or accomplishment you’re especially proud of?

One skill I’m especially proud of is becoming a self-taught underwater photographer and being able to use that skill to support media, education, and scientific projects. Underwater photography allows people to experience marine environments and species they may never otherwise get to see, and I love being able to share that perspective with others.

I’ve also enjoyed teaching students how underwater photography can support real scientific research, from identifying species to documenting habitats and collecting data. One of the most rewarding parts is seeing someone go from never using an underwater camera to capturing an image they’re truly proud of.

For me, underwater photography is not only a creative outlet but also a powerful tool for education and conservation. I love being able to document the incredible biodiversity beneath the surface and share it with the community, especially people who spend time in these waters every day. It has brought me so much joy over the years, and I’m always excited to continue growing those skills while inspiring others to appreciate and protect marine ecosystems.

As a marine scientist, what part of Sarasota Bay are you most interested in exploring and engaging the community in?

I’m especially excited to explore the mangrove ecosystems throughout Sarasota Bay. While living on the West Coast, I fell in love with kelp forests and the rich biodiversity they support, and I see mangroves as Florida’s own version of an underwater forest. Mangroves are such fascinating ecosystems because they create shelter, nurseries, and feeding grounds for countless species of fish, crabs, birds, manatees, and other wildlife. Every root system is its own tiny world full of life, and there is always something new to discover.

What excites me most is helping the community experience that magic firsthand. Whether it’s kayaking through mangrove tunnels, snorkeling along the roots, or simply slowing down to observe the wildlife living there, I want people to feel connected to these ecosystems and understand why they are so important to protect.