Committed in Every Way to Your Success

Nick is a Bahamian marine biologist that hails from the fishing town of Spanish Wells, Eleuthera. Before returning to The Bahamas to lead the Cape Eleuthera Institute at The Island School, Nick worked as Deputy Director of the Marine Institute at the University of Plymouth in the UK. He began his research career studying the ecology and biodiversity of deep-sea habitats, completing his doctoral research at the University of Leeds and Natural History Museum, London. He has since diversified his research interests and is currently focussed on sustainable fisheries in The Bahamas, particularly the spiny lobster fishery.

In 2012, Taylor returned to The Island School as a research fellow after working in marine science in California and Florida. She soon learned of her passion for welcoming young people into the program she participated in during high school (Spring 2006). Taylor joined the stateside team in 2013 to lead The Island School admissions team and has continued to expand how we market and promote all the programs on the cape.

Born in Virginia and raised in Colorado, she studied strategic communications and Spanish at Washington State University. She continued her world tour following graduation and spent a year living in Spain while traveling around Europe. With a new home-base in Philly, Anna is excited to be a part of the team working to offer students experiential learning opportunities and impactful educational experiences at The Island School.

Lindsay brings experience in development operations, campaign management, and international tourism and education from her time working at the Philadelphia Museum of Art and Context Travel. She graduated from the University of Notre Dame and earned a MA in Modern French Studies from the University of Kent in Canterbury, England. Lindsay lives in Philadelphia with her husband Brandon and their daughter Quinn.

Megan bring experience in program management and development, volunteer coordination, and fundraising to the Foundation team. Megan began her nonprofit career in Buffalo, NY where she focused on local community development efforts. In 2017, she moved to Philadelphia, and worked with United By Blue, leading their large-scale waterway cleanup operations. She is a graduate of Houghton College, where she earned her BA in Communications and Business Administration. Megan is excited to be part of the Foundation team and to enhance the alumni experience for all Cape Eleuthera Island School alumni.

Growing up in Wellesley, Massachusetts, Jack studied Biology and Spanish at Trinity College. Following a lifelong connection with the ocean and passion to develop a career in marine science, Jack went on to work as a diver and educator for the New England Aquarium. Jack first joined The Island School in 2018 as an intern on the Visiting Programs team. In his three years working on campus, he coordinated short-courses, led the GAP program, and served as Marine Ecology Teacher for the semester program. Jack went on to manage educational programs and lead sea turtle conservation efforts for Loggerhead Marinelife Center in South Florida. Since the fall of 2023, Jack has worked for the Cape Eleuthera Foundation team as the Donor Relations and Special Events Supervisor, supporting The Island School’s ability to build strong partnerships and carry out local and stateside events.

Courtney is an accomplished fundraising professional who brings a vast portfolio of experiences to the Cape Eleuthera Foundation.  She has successfully led development initiatives for universities, independent schools, health care institutions, nonprofit, and community-based organizations. As director of the Duke University School of Law’s reunion fundraising program, Ms. Brady raised $3.5 million in gifts and pledges in two years.  As a major gift officer, she secured six-and seven-figure gifts and pledges as part of a $350 million University-wide scholarship initiative.   Ms. Brady has a passion for the ocean and protecting our natural resources.  She is an avid scuba diver, carries certifications in reef renewal and shark awareness, and holds a master’s degree in Marine Science from Unity College.  She is a volunteer scuba diver for the South Carolina Aquarium where she performs animal husbandry and education roles in the deepest tank in North America. A graduate of Dartmouth College and the Lawrenceville School, Ms. Brady is a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals Lowcountry Chapter (SC), and sits of several ocean-related non profit and for profit boards.  She lives in Charleston, SC with her husband, Matt, their two daughters, Izzy and Lillie, and their two dogs.

Molly grew up outside of Portland, Oregon, then moved to Bozeman, Montana to pursue an education and her love for the outdoors at Montana State University (MSU). Upon graduation, Molly began her career in admissions at MSU, where she supported students throughout their admissions processes and expanded postsecondary opportunities for rural students across Montana. As a passionate advocate for improving access to education, Molly pursued her graduate studies in higher education at the University of Pennsylvania, and has since continued her work in admissions in Philadelphia. She is ecstatic to continue supporting students through her role with the Cape Eleuthera Foundation, while helping them gain access to all of the transformative learning experiences that The Island School has to offer.

Tahlia, originally from Charlestown, Rhode Island, has nurtured a deep, lifelong connection to the ocean. Her passion for exploration has taken her to numerous countries around the world, enriching her understanding of diverse cultures and herself. After relocating to Philadelphia to earn her Master’s in Social Work at Temple University, Tahlia dedicated her career to serving as a clinician and advocate, supporting children and families across the city. Now, Tahlia is excited to channel her experience, skills, and enthusiasm into a new role in admissions, where she aims to guide and support students as they embark on a transformative journey with The Island School and Cape Eleuthera Foundation.

Megan first set foot on The Island School’s campus in 2012 as a Visiting Programs student, but that was only the beginning. Growing up in Iowa, she formed a deep-rooted passion for community, nature, and sustainability. Megan returned to The Island School in 2016 and 2017 as an intern before graduating from Iowa State University with degrees in Journalism and Environmental Science. She worked at The Island School as a Senior Communications Associate from 2018 to 2020, and now returns as our Digital Content Coordinator to share our story and amplify our mission.

Vernesse grew up in The Bahamas with a strong love for the arts. She studied Visual and Creative Arts at Sheridan College. She freelanced in product photography, illustration, and graphic design, which eventually led her to the world of Digital Marketing in Korea. Now at The Island School, Vernesse is dedicated to sharing authentic stories through media and marketing. She’s currently working towards a Media and Communication Arts Bachelors from Woosong University.

Christina is the Director of Visiting Programs and the Summer Term. She is a science teacher, outdoor educator, and educational program administrator who has worked in the UK, Dubai, Bonaire, and the United States. She is also a competitive ultimate frisbee player, an Oregonian, and a lover of the ocean. Christina studied Marine Biology at the University of Oregon before pursuing a MA in Biology from Miami University of Ohio. More recently she attended the University of Exeter for a Postgraduate Certificate in Education. Christina is so excited to help students learn, grow, and develop as global citizens.

Meet Allie, an outdoors enthusiast whose deep bond with nature led to a lifelong passion. With a diverse background in wilderness pursuits like backpacking, rock climbing, and kayaking, she’s channeled her love for the outdoors into an educational career. llie studied Ecology and Evolution at the University of Washington before pursuing a MA in Environmental Studies and Education for Sustainability from Prescott College In her 13+ years as an educator, Allie has crafted immersive learning experiences, guiding students to learn through hands-on activities.. As The Dean of Academics, she’s committed to providing transformative education that nurtures eco-conscious, sustainability-minded, adventurous, and empathetic individuals.

Lauren is originally from Baltimore, MD, and first joined The Island School community as a Semester student. She always knew she wanted to return as a teacher one day and that dream first came true in 2017 when Lauren worked for the Summer Term. Since then, Lauren has taught the Histories class, led Down Island Trips, and held the role of Treehouse Dorm Head for the Semester and Summer Term. Lauren is currently the Assistant Director and Dean of Students for the Semester Program.

Adam grew up in Baltimore, Maryland, and received his Bachelor’s degree in anthropology and global sustainability from the University of Virginia. He has spent time studying and working on environmental issues in Hawai’i, New Zealand, the wider South Pacific, the Spanish Basque Country, and the Caribbean. Most recently, he worked for a global forestry consulting firm based in Washington, D.C., before rejoining the Island School community in June 2019 to work for our Visiting Programs. Adam is the Dean of Faculty at The Island School and also directs the morning exercise program, the semester mentor program, and teaches Creative Writing & Storytelling. In his free time he enjoys surfing, freediving, trying to improve his Spanish, and playing music. He is also a certified meditation teacher.

George grew up in Bath, UK and studied Marine Conservation at the University of Plymouth’s Marine Institute. During his studies he gained experience in field research and social science research investigating human connection to marine environments and the use of education as a means of change. He is a ‘life-long learner’ and combines formal education with real-world experience and application. George previously worked as an environmental educator, teaching students and developing other educators. He loves combining experiential education with storytelling to share the experiences of Ocean citizens around the world. He is passionate about mentoring and is inspired by the journeys shared between mentor and mentee. In his free time, George enjoys scuba diving, snorkeling and paddling.

Having grown up in Charleston, South Carolina, Claire loves the coastal life, cherishing marsh adventures and sun-soaked days. An adventurer at heart, she spent many summers island hopping throughout the Caribbean, first as a student and later as a PADI Dive instructor on live-aboard sailing and diving programs. In college, Claire was eager to better understand the relationship between people and place, earning a degree in Sociology and Environmental Studies from Wake Forest University. Following her passion for exploration, she made her way to New York City to work in the travel industry. After learning the ropes of the industry, Claire is excited to return to her blue water roots at The Island School.

Quinn’s relationship with the Caribbean began when he moved to the island of St. Croix to work in permaculture and sustainable systems. A lover of the humanities, he has always been interested in cultural immersion and place-based learning. While studying anthropology and archaeology at NYU, he found a way to blend these two interests, conducting fieldwork on the Caribbean coast of Belize. Quinn is eager to continue to learn and grow alongside a group of motivated students. In his free time, Quinn enjoys making pottery, running, and lounging on the beach.

Abby was born and raised in the state of Vermont. She graduated with a science education degree from Montana State University in 2021. Since then, she has been working as a substitute teacher, ski instructor, and math tutor.  She has spent several months traveling in Southeast Asia and received her yoga teacher certificate. More recently, she has worked as a long-term high school biology and physics substitute teacher. She is passionate about outdoor, place-based education and cannot wait to explore that more on Eleuthera.

Caroline is originally from Wellesley, Massachusetts. She majored in English with a concentration in Creative Writing at Northwestern University and studied for a semester at the University of Otago in Dunedin, New Zealand. Through AmeriCorps and College Possible, Caroline served as a college counselor for low-income students in Seattle and Federal Way Public Schools. Caroline has led backpacking programs on Minnesota’s Superior Hiking Trail, Vermont’s Long Trail, Iceland’s Laugavegur Trail, and Switzerland’s Alpine Pass Route and loves to swim and bike around Eleuthera. She is grateful for the opportunity to teach and learn at The Island School.

Growing up in the Ocean State, Sophie spent most of her time in or by the water. Her Rhode Island roots brought her to Eleuthera for the first time in Spring 2017 as a Semester student. She went on to study at the University of Miami Rosenstiel School where she double majored in Marine Affairs and Ecosystem Science & Policy and minored in Creative Writing. She is particularly interested in how writing and art forms can be used as educational tools to engage communities in environmental policy. Having spent many summers as a camp counselor, Sophie strives to bring her energy and compassion to the communities she works with and can’t wait to inspire students to discover their own power as leaders. In her free time, Sophie loves spending time with friends and family, playing in the ocean, writing, and kickboxing. 

Lulu is from Dedham, Massachusetts, and graduated in May 2024 from Middlebury College in Vermont. At Middlebury, Lulu studied Biology and minored in Math and Global Health while continuing to engage with her love for the outdoors. She also studied abroad at The University of Otago in Dunedin, New Zealand her junior year. In the past, Lulu has worked in labs studying a wide range of things from insect communication to CTE, and the intersection of pollution and disease. Lulu loves backpacking, skiing, running, reading, and painting. She is also a proud Island School Spring ‘19 alumni!

Born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland, Ali spent her summers at beaches along the state’s coast, where she first discovered her love for the water. She received her bachelor’s degree in English and History from Tufts University and her master’s in Hospitality from New York University. Since graduating, she has lived on Eleuthera as well as in New York City. Most recently, she was working in the hospitality industry as a maître d’, but prior to that, she interned with the gap semester program at The Island School and volunteered in food education. Ali is passionate about the outdoors, food and connection, and in her free time, she loves to be in nature, do the crossword and play board games.

Cate grew up in London, England, and graduated from Barnard College in New York in 2024. Cate found her interest in outdoor education and environmental science at The Island School, where she was a student in the Expeditionary Summer Term in 2017. At Barnard, Cate studied Environmental Science and Biology and studied abroad with the Sea Education Association, furthering her love of outdoor education. Cate has worked in labs studying the oceans and climate as well as teaching in classrooms around the world. She loves swimming, sailing, running, and diving in her free time.

Em was born in Australia and raised in a small beach town, where she spent most of her childhood in the water and fascinated by marine life. She studied Marine Biology at James Cook University in Far North Queensland, Australia, right on the Great Barrier Reef. Em has presented at symposiums on shark conservation and contributed to large-scale conservation projects. She has developed a passion for outdoor education through her work as an outdoor educator and guide in Australia, New Zealand, and the United States.Outside of work, Em enjoys surfing, climbing, hiking, and spending time in nature.

Giacomo grew up close to Milan, Italy, and moved abroad for the first time at 17 where he spent a year as an exchange student in the U.S. After mastering his English fluency and becoming familiar with American culture, he received his Bachelor’s in International Relations at Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore in Milan. He went on to obtain his Master’s in Environment and Society Studies at Radboud University in the Netherlands, after completing his research project during his internship at the headquarters of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in Bonn, Germany. After moving to Tenerife, Spain, he fell in love with the island life, exploring a deeper connection with nature and the ocean. Giacomo is passionate about foreign languages, soccer, skiing, snorkeling, and hiking.

Jeff is from Manchester, Massachusetts, and graduated from Northwestern University, where he studied Political Science and Business. After working in financial services post-university, he shifted careers towards the world of experiential education to pursue his passion for teaching and the outdoors. Jeff has worked for the Appalachian Mountain Club and led extended outdoor programs for the Voyageur Outward Bound School and YMCA in Minnesota and west Texas. When he’s not on trail or in the classroom, he loves fishing, running and movies.

Katie grew up in Long Beach, California, where she fostered a deep connection to marine life. She received her bachelor’s from San Diego State University where she studied Journalism with a minor in Sustainability. While in school, she grew passionate about the kelp forest ecosystem and decided to explore the outdoor education field. She has worked as an educator and naturalist on Catalina Island and Grand Cayman, connecting students and adults to the kelp forest, mangrove, and coral reef ecosystems. Inspired by her semester studying abroad in Italy in college, Katie returned to Europe last year and worked as a teaching assistant in Spain. In her free time, she loves traveling, camping, and anything related to the ocean such as snorkeling and scuba diving.

Maggie was born and raised in Colorado and went to the University of Edinburgh in Scotland, where she studied environmental policy, climate ethics, and climate justice. Maggie has worked in suicide prevention, with political campaigns, and in outdoor education. She has particularly enjoyed working as a backpacking and mountaineering instructor for NOLS. Lately she has enjoyed stints in Wyoming, Alaska, Italy, Greece, and Morocco. In her spare time, Maggie enjoys climbing, mountain biking, playing guitar, and reading poetry.

Mia is a Pacific Northwest girl born and raised. She attended the University of Oregon and developed a love for outdoor education while studying on the big island of Hawaii. During college, Mia worked as a kayak tour guide in the Seattle area. After graduating, she worked for a climate media group before moving to Spain to pursue her interest in teaching. Mia fell in love with education and has since then worked as an outdoor educator and preschool teacher. Mia loves reading, all animals but especially dogs, music, and playing sports.

Heather comes to us from Quebec, Canada. She holds an undergraduate degree in Criminology and History, a Bachelors of Education, and is currently working on her Masters of Education specializing in Teaching and Learning through the University of Ottawa. Heather has been teaching for 14 years in the public school sector with experience teaching kindergarten to grade 6. Her areas of interest are in inquiry based learning, social emotional learning, special education, and outdoor education. In her spare time, Heather enjoys traveling with her family, swimming, and baking!

Originally from Ottawa, Canada, Braden comes to The Island School with a passion for education and the sustainability. Braden holds two degrees in Psychology and Education with focuses in International Education and Special Education. His teaching centers around the belief that children are naturally curious, and the role of a teacher is to nourish their curiosity into positive and meaningful experiences. Learning must be engaging and draw on the lived experiences of the students. Having had the opportunity to teach multiple grades, Braden is excited to work in a unique classroom and explore the Island School Campus alongside the ELC students! When not working, Braden enjoys swimming, reading, and hanging out with others.

Angelica (Jelly) grew up in Deep Creek, Eleuthera. She is a seasoned ELC teaching assistant, and has worked with the program since 2015. She brings a gentle style and genuine care for her students to her work.

Brenda is returning for her 3rd year at the ELC. Brenda takes a playful approach to learning. She is a native Spanish speaker and enjoys teaching her language and culture to the students at the ELC.

Kayla has been teaching for more than 10 years and is thrilled to teach in DCMS’s experiential environment. During her career, Kayla has taught all 4 core subjects which include Math, English, Science, and Social Studies, ranging from 5th grade to 8th grade in Texas. She was also the cheer coach/sponsor and previously instituted a campus step team for student extracurriculars. Her high school years were spent at Jordan Prince Williams High in Nassau, and she later received her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. She is the mother of one son who recently started his college journey.

Ashlee is a dedicated and enthusiastic educator eager to foster a positive and engaging learning environment. Having recently graduated from the University of The Bahamas with a BEd in English and Literature, she is eager to bring fresh ideas and creativity to the classroom. Ashlee enjoy the outdoors and is excited to collaborate on and relish in experiential activities within the Island School community.

Breea Colebrooke is a fun and energetic Social Studies teacher with a passion for making history come alive in the classroom. Born and raised in Nassau, Bahamas, she also spent a few years living on Andros Island, where she developed a deep appreciation for the serenity and beauty of the outer islands. With her love for all things music, she creatively blends rhythm and knowledge to keep students engaged. Whether she’s leading an exciting lesson or humming a tune, Ms. Colebrooke brings enthusiasm, energy, and a love for learning every day!

Anshena is an EFL (English as a Foreign Language) specialist who originally hails from Deep Creek, Eleuthera. She was locally educated at the University of the Bahamas where she obtained a bachelor’s degree in Banking and Finance with a minor in Foreign Languages. Anshena gained valuable experience in diverse sectors such as finance, hospitality, sales and manufacturing before settling into education. Since earning her Cambridge University CELTA certification in TEFL, she has worked with a broad spectrum of students ranging from kindergarten to adult learners in Japan, Thailand and The Bahamas. Her specialty is phonemic awareness, and her passion is building a solid reading foundation in young learners. Anshena also holds advanced PADI scuba, Wilderness First Responder and Emergency First Responder certifications.

Hannah is from the eastern shore of Maryland, where her love for the ocean first began. Growing up on the Miles River, she spent every summer sailing, boating, swimming, and trekking around the marsh with friends. For the past two summers, Hannah has worked as a captain for a sailing program in the Caribbean, teaching young adults to sail and live aboard sailboats. Hannah graduated from Tulane University, majoring in Social Policy/ Practice and Sociology with a minor in Teaching, Learning, and Training. She has loved playing sports her whole life and expanded her fitness career by becoming a group fitness instructor at City Surf Studios in New Orleans. Hannah is incredibly excited to be a part of The Island School team and is especially stoked about teaching students all about sustainability and how to better coexist with our environment. In her free time, you can find Hannah going on little explorations or runs, finding fun things to climb, or just going for a relaxing swim.

Rachel Buissereth is a passionate and committed outdoor educator with roots on the beautiful island of St. Lucia. With a Bachelor of Arts and Master Degree in Education, Rachel continues to commit herself to the experiential education space for over five years both internationally and in the United States. Rachel believes that education and community engagement is an invaluable tenant to increasing conservation efforts, public awareness, maintaining our local ecosystems, and growing the next generation of climate leaders. More so, she believes in creating generative spaces where a diverse group of people can share stories and personal experiences to grow as stewards. She is excited to welcome Visiting Programs from all over the world to experience The Island School and take what they learn back home.

Madie is originally from Holland, Michigan, where her love for the outdoors was fostered on the shores of Lake Michigan. She studied Environmental Studies and Environmental Decision Making at Denison University and is passionate about experiential learning, community resiliency, and engaging others in the outdoors. Madie has spent time as a student and as a marine biology instructor in the Caribbean, studying climate change policy in Small Island Developing States, and also teaching and living with students on sailboats. Madie is excited to explore Eleuthera through snorkeling and hiking with visiting groups, and learn with others in an intentional community. In her free time, she enjoys creating art, diving, biking, and anything outdoors!

Makayla is a high-energy, passionate individual dedicated to empowering the creative spirits of the next generation. With a diverse background in youth development, multimedia creation, organic farming, and holistic empowerment, she seeks opportunities to explore and grow. Makayla thrives on challenging the status quo and pursuing new adventures. A certified yoga and meditation instructor, she grew up in both Indiana and Ohio and has hobbies that include lifting, painting, yoga, and embarking on adventures with friends and family. Driven by a love for the natural world, health, art, and global connections, Makayla is committed to making a positive impact.

Jessica grew up in Virginia Beach, Virginia, sandwiched between the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay. After graduating from college in 2021 with a Bachelor of Arts in Global Studies, she moved to New York and worked for a service-learning non-profit in Brooklyn. This experience led Jessica to the conviction that she prefers to feel the grass beneath her feet rather than concrete, so she moved to Colorado in the summer of 2023, where she worked as a raft guide and office administrator for an outdoor adventure company. Jessica is thrilled to be part of the Island School team and combine her passion for teaching, place-based learning, and the outdoors!

Maddie grew up in a coastal town in Devon, England, which stemmed her strong connection to the ocean shaped her interest in marine conservation. Since 2017 she has been teaching sailing and has plans to continue growing within her club to someday become a sailing coach. While in her last year at the University of Plymouth studying Ocean Science with Marine Conservation, she visited The Island School as a Visiting Programs participant. Maddie’s goal is to empower young learners to become informed about the marine environment, ensuring a sustainable future for our oceans. Maddie is excited to work with students and highlight the beauty of the marine environment.

Sophia Glover, originally from Woodinville, Washington, has spent the past four years in Santa Barbara, California, studying psychology and environmental science. A lifelong outdoor enthusiast, Sophia has always been drawn to nature and its ability to educate and inspire. From skiing and backpacking to diving and surfing, she finds deep fulfillment in helping others connect with the outdoors. This passion led her to outdoor education, where she combines her love for adventure with teaching, fostering transformative experiences for students. She is excited to bring her passion for environmental exploration and teaching to The Island School’s unique community, contributing to its educational mission while continuing to explore and inspire others through outdoor learning.

Nick is a Bahamian marine biologist that hails from the fishing town of Spanish Wells, Eleuthera. Before returning to The Bahamas to lead the Cape Eleuthera Institute at The Island School, Nick worked as Deputy Director of the Marine Institute at the University of Plymouth in the UK. He began his research career studying the ecology and biodiversity of deep-sea habitats, completing his doctoral research at the University of Leeds and Natural History Museum, London. He has since diversified his research interests and is currently focussed on sustainable fisheries in The Bahamas, particularly the spiny lobster fishery.

Eric is the Assistant Director of the Cape Eleuthera Institute and is a marine scientist interested in fisheries and other human-wildlife interactions. Trained as a fisheries biologist, he has worked with fishers and other resource users to collaboratively design research projects that benefit humans and marine ecosystems. This stakeholder-centered approach is central to his research and conservation work, as it serves to build buy-in and leads to more successful outcomes. Eric is a member of the IUCN Shark Specialist Group, holds Adjunct Professor appointments at Memorial University of Newfoundland and University of Massachusetts Amherst, and coordinates the research experience for our Semester students. He also works on agroforestry and food security projects.

Dorlan is a Bahamian bioprocess engineer from New Providence. Prior to joining CEI, he worked as a Process Engineer at Verso Paper in Michigan, USA and Assistant Residence Director at Syracuse University in Syracuse, New York. He received a B.E. in Chemical Engineering from Youngstown State University and M.Sc. in Bioprocess Engineering from SUNY-College of Environmental Science and Forestry, During his tenure as a graduate researcher, his thesis focused on thermochemical hemicellulose extraction of invasive Casuarina lignocellulosic biomass to produce biofuels and bioplastics. At CEI, he conducts research in utilizing fungi to produce food and biomaterials.

Johny started The Island School 10 years ago as a Landscape Technician. He is originally from Haiti and has integrated himself well in Bahamian culture and The Island School alike. He was a part of The Bahamas National Neighbourhood (watch) Council with the Royal Bahamas Police Force. He is also an avid Conch Fest participant. He loves being a part of The Island School community and meeting new people from all walks of life from around the world. He loves having fun and is most comfortable being in front of the camera. Johny’s famous quote, “Keep it going.”

Mia is a true CARICOM national. Born and raised in Saint Lucia, she has lived and worked in Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, and Dominica, among other places. She is an aquaculturist by training but her educational and professional background also expand to include environmental and marine science. Her intention is to ensure that there will always be fresh lettuce available to all on campus, among other hydroponically produced vegetables. As would be expected, she does enjoy spending her time outside, the beach is her happy place. She also enjoys watching TV and considers popcorn to be a food group.

Natalia is a Colombian marine biologist who started studying coral population and growth to improve coral restoration for her undergraduate and master’s theses. Since 2008, she has been involved in many coral projects in Colombia, The Netherlands, Bonaire, Curaçao and Qatar. Now, she is applying her expertise at the Bahamas Coral Innovation Hub project, hoping to help to rehabilitate threatened coral populations by using sexual and asexual propagation to grow and research different coral species. Natalia has been teaching dive courses for the last 15 years, training beginners, divemasters, new instructors and teaching specialties like the PADI Reef Rescue Course.

Brett joins The Island School as a renewable energy specialist and systems engineer. He brings a background in solar PV, small wind, and distributed power generation, having cut his teeth in the profit-driven renewables grind of Canada. Brett is a believer in community-centric approaches to living, and much prefers the lifestyle on Eleuthera to the one he left behind. Prior to all of this, Brett was a traveler, ESL teacher, and wayward purpose-seeker.

Elidieu Joseph, lovingly called Joseph, hails from the beautiful country of Haiti. He is the grandfather of The Island School alongside Chris Maxey. Joseph began his journey here over 18 years ago during the infancy stages of what was to become an important landmark here in Eleuthera—The Island School. His hand and foot-prints can be seen all over the campus for the tireless work he has put in to make this place the beauty that it is today. Joseph is known by all and loved tremendously by staff and students alike. When you meet him, you are embraced by one of the biggest, honest smiles that simply engulfs you; then you hear “Mon ami” – my friend! His life’s mission is to work hard for his family back home in Haiti.

Vincent, the gentle giant of The Island School. He has been with the school now for over 5 years. Vincent was originally born in The Bahamas and, at a very young age, moved to Haiti. Much later in his adult years, he returned to The Bahamas. Vincent is highly skilled in a number of different areas. He is a farmer, landscaper, and mason. You can see all aspects of his work on campus from the farm, to the beautiful landscape to the rock walls. He is affectionately known as a beast on campus; as he can take on the task of 3 men and accomplish it with finesse and ease. Vincent does not speak much, but he smiles and his actions count for a thousand words. Every chance he gets, he runs back home to Haiti to his wife and 4 daughters.

Natascha Wosnick is the lead scientist for the Shark Research and Conservation Program at the Cape Eleuthera Institute, where she studies the physiological and behavioral impacts of environmental and human-induced stressors on coastal shark and ray species. She holds a BSc in Biological Sciences, a MSc in Physiology, and a PhD in Zoology from the Federal University of Paraná in Brazil. Natascha is actively involved in shark and ray conservation efforts, collaborating with stakeholders and policymakers to assess species’ extinction risks and develop National Plans of Action (NPOAs) for shark and ray protection, particularly in the Global South. Her work spans The Bahamas and Brazil, focusing on species at high risk of extinction. As a member of the IUCN Shark Specialist Group (SSG) within the Species Survival Commission, she contributes to global conservation planning and science-based strategies to support the protection of vulnerable elasmobranch populations.

Born and raised in West End, Grand Bahama, Silia has always had a passion for the ocean. She studied Marine Biology at The University of New Brunswick and is now based at the Bahamas Coral Innovation Hub. Here, Silia contributes to coral restoration research, outreach, and education efforts in South Eleuthera. She joined the team as an intern supported by The Nature Conservancy back in 2019. She has been promoted to Research Technician, then Research Assistant, and is now a full-time researcher.

Kennedy first came to The Island School in 2018 as a summer intern, working with the dive team. She studied Marine Biology and Spanish at the University of Miami and is now completing her Master’s in Biology with Miami University’s Global Field Program. Kennedy returned to The Island School in 2021 to work as a Coral Research Technician and then taught applied research, marine ecology, and scuba diving. More recently, Kennedy worked as a Coral Disease Associate with Florida Sea Grant, coordinating response efforts to mitigate the devastating impacts of stony coral tissue loss disease across the U.S. coral jurisdictions. Kennedy is excited to return to the Cape Eleuthera Institute as the Research Partnerships Coordinator where she will continue to share her passions for ocean conservation and expand our impact as a center for sustainable development and research.