Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute

Ocean Discovery Experience: In 2017, Florida Atlantic University Harbor Branch launched the Ocean Discovery Experience, an after-school program that brings marine science lessons to underserved students at the Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Lucie County. These Florida standard-aligned lessons are inspired by research at the Institute, led by our experts, and include wide-ranging subjects from fascinating habitats and marine life to current science at the University, as well as important conservation topics and actions that can be taken to make an impact. To date, the Ocean Discovery Experience has engaged 543 students in grades K-12 across 10 Boys & Girls Club locations in St. Lucie County. This program has made a meaningful difference in the lives of participants, and played an important role in exposing students who are underrepresented in STEM fields to new and exciting career paths. Charitable gifts to the Ocean Discovery Experience help bolster the program and expand its impact.

Coral Reef Research and Conservation: Florida Atlantic University Harbor Branch researchers have been studying shallow and deepwater coral reefs around the world for decades. Our program combines traditional exploration with cutting-edge molecular techniques to better understand and protect coral ecosystems. Our team investigates reef biodiversity, tracks and predicts the impacts of environmental stressors, and addresses pressing issues like coral bleaching and Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease. Ultimately, our team is helping to preserve coral reefs and improve management strategies. Charitable gifts to this program help support coral reef research and conservation efforts at Harbor Branch.

Shark Research and Conservation: Florida Atlantic University Harbor Branch scientists are working to better understand the population of coastal sharks and rays in Florida by tracking their movements, studying their diets and feeding habits, and assessing the health of their habitats. Our team also studies the complex interactions among these large predatory animals and commercial and recreational fishers. This information provides a complete picture of the resources needed by these animals and offers ways that policy makers can work to protect and conserve the health of Florida's shark and ray populations. Charitable gifts to this program help support shark research and conservation efforts at Harbor Branch.

M. Dennis Hanisak Semester By The Sea Fund: Join us in honoring the remarkable career and extraordinary legacy of M. Dennis Hanisak, Ph.D., a beloved and renowned member of our faculty, esteemed scientist, dedicated educator, and so much more. For over 30 years, Hanisak mentored aspiring young scientists, opening minds to the wonders of the marine environment, and preparing students to become career professionals. In 2002, Hanisak founded one of the nation’s premier marine science education programs, Semester By The Sea. This program provides unique, hands-on experiences to undergraduate students in the classroom, in the field, and at sea. Learning directly from subject experts, this program has educated over 500 students, many of which pursued careers in marine science and even returned to Florida Atlantic University Harbor Branch to become graduate students, scientists, educators, and leaders. Charitable gifts to this program help support Semester By The Sea at Harbor Branch.