Committed to Leadership Effecting Change

Eric is the Director of the Cape Eleuthera Institute and is a marine scientist interested in fisheries and other human-wildlife interactions. 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.

Brittney has a long history with CEIS. As the oldest of the Maxey children and a proud Deep Creek Middle School alum, she began her Island School career early—interning at summer camps and working with the facilities teams over school breaks. After college, Brittney worked as a Consultant for IBM’s Global Services Division in Buenos Aires, Argentina. She then made her way back to The Island School for an interim year where she served as Communications Director and organized and led the Youth Action Island Summit, an event that brought global and local conservation leaders, activists, and students together to address plastic pollution in our oceans. Brittney then went to New York City to continue her career in big business, landing a position at WPP—at the time, the world’s largest creative consulting company. There, she worked on client and organizational strategy overseeing teams in NYC and London. After 7 years at WPP, Brittney took a global role at a smaller firm, Neuro-Insight – here she led teams in NYC, London, Cape Town, and Melbourne to deliver cutting-edge consumer research. Life and love led Brittney back to Eleuthera where she lives with her Fiancé, Mike (IS F02), and two potcakes, Squiggles and Gillie.

Senior Director of Education, Tara Affolter first fell in love with The Island School a few years ago for the Educator’s Conference. She returned in January 2025 on a sabbatical from her position as an Associate Professor of Education Studies at Middlebury College, in Middlebury, VT—and then she couldn’t bring herself to leave. Tara brings 30 years of teaching experience to her role at The Island School—having taught everything from pre-kindergarten to postgraduates. She believes that the best learning comes from an approach that is “hands-on,” “minds-on,” and has found no other place like The Island School where all students from pre-kindergartens to postgraduates explore, learn, and grow. When not in awe of the ocean or marveling at all the learning happening here, she enjoys beating Maxey in the four mile swim, hugging any dogs that let her, singing loudly, using the think method to practice the guitar, and hanging out with her husband, Stephen Hoffman.

Alexis is a native of Eleuthera and no stranger to The Island School — she is a proud alumna of Deep Creek Middle School and now serves as our Procurement Assistant. A devoted mom of two, her eldest, Tyreke, is a part of the Elementary Learning Center community, while her newborn, Trinity, is already in line to follow in his footsteps. Alexis has a budding interest in crocheting and finds joy in learning new skills in her downtime. Deeply rooted in family and community, being at The Island School feels like coming home — a place that continues to reflect the values she holds dear.

Taylor first joined The Island School as a student in Spring 2006, an experience that sparked her lifelong commitment to marine science and education. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Zoology and Environmental Science from the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Following her undergraduate studies, Taylor built a strong foundation in marine science through roles at The Marine Mammal Center in Sausalito, California, and Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota, Florida. In 2012, she returned to Eleuthera as a research fellow, deepening her connection to the organization’s mission and work. From 2013 to 2020, Taylor led The Island School’s Semester and Summer admissions team, where she played a key role in expanding the school’s reach and deepening its impact on students. In 2021, she joined the Cape Eleuthera Foundation as Assistant Director and was appointed Executive Director in 2022. Taylor is passionate about the intersection of science, education, and community and is committed to fostering transformational experiences for students and supporting sustainable development in The Bahamas.

Anna joined the team in the summer of 2018 with an undergraduate degree in Strategic Communications and an emphasis in global and intercultural communication. She is a nomad at heart, having lived and traveled around the world, and has a passion for bringing unique and transformative experiences to all. She leads with the motto, “culture cannot be learned, it must be experienced.” Since joining the team, Anna has found ways to collaborate with staff across the organization; she has lived on campus to support Semester programming and took on a student advisor role, manages the Semester & Summer Term Admissions as it intersects with alumni involvement, co-leads the annual on-island Educators Conference, and oversees student enrollment and the tuition assistance program. Now, working alongside the Communications and Partnerships Teams, Anna is leveraging her skills and passion for writing, storytelling, relationship-building, and education to strengthen our networks and partnerships across the experiential education and nonprofit sectors. She also loves to be outside, tend to her many plants, opt for sustainable solutions, and give big hugs!

Lindsay brings over a decade of experience in development, donor strategy, and nonprofit operations to Cape Eleuthera Foundation. With a deep background in donor relations, campaign strategy, and grant writing, she has successfully led efforts to enhance donor engagement and expand institutional support. Prior to her current role, she held leadership and development positions at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Context Travel, and the New England Foundation for the Arts, consistently building and optimizing systems to support fundraising goals. She brings a strategic, data-informed approach to philanthropy, combined with a passion for creative storytelling.

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. Jack returned to work for the Cape Eleuthera Foundation in 2023 and now serves as our Regional Stewardship Manager, 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.

Jayne Morley, originally from just outside Philadelphia, graduated from Harvard University in 2025 with a degree in Biology and Environmental Science. Driven by her passion for marine conservation and education, Jayne has gained hands-on experience working with the New England Aquarium, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, and various coral reef restoration projects. A dedicated scuba diver, she has developed a deep connection to ocean ecosystems and the importance of protecting them. She is eager to contribute through fundraising efforts and collaboration with The Island School and Cape Eleuthera Foundation boards to help sustain and advance their mission.

Garrett is a passionate fundraiser with a decade of experience leading fundraising initiatives within non-profit organizations, with a focus on major gifts and donor stewardship. She excels at building strong donor relationships and aligning fundraising goals with organizational priorities. Prior to joining the Cape Eleuthera Foundation as Leadership Giving Officer, Garrett served as Senior Associate Director of Individual and Planned Giving at the Marine Biological Laboratory, where she strategically enhanced donor engagement, coordinated donor-focused events, and expanded the planned giving program. As Director of Advancement at The Nativity School in New Bedford, Massachusetts, she supported a successful comprehensive capital campaign, while also serving as principal gifts officer, grant writer, communications representative, and event planner. Garrett lives in Marion, Massachusetts, with her husband, Zander. They are the proud parents of three Island School alumni—Max (F17), Sam (F19), and Bo (F23). She has witnessed first-hand the transformative power of The Island School in the lives of her own children.

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 conservation, which was strengthened through her experience at The Island School and inspired her to pursue science journalism. She graduated from Iowa State University in 2018 with degrees in Journalism, French, and Environmental Studies and joined The Island School as full-time staff to share our story and amplify our mission. Megan is heavily involved in the local community and enjoys spending time exploring Eleuthera with her Potcake, Cane (a Deep Creek native).

Hailing from the Northeast, Christopher was raised on the South Shore of Massachusetts and spent summers exploring the biodiverse Boston Harbor Archipelago and winters immersed in the mountainous landscape of Vermont. The blend of coastal and alpine adventures led him to the University of Vermont, where he deepened his connection with the outdoors, often with a camera in hand. Motivated by a passion for both creativity and the environment, Christopher earned a degree in Art and Design with a concentration in sustainable design and brand development. While in college, he began his career as a freelance graphic designer and visual artist, helping organizations elevate their visual presence. At the same time, he continued to pursue his personal interests, including film photography, climbing, skiing, and a love for music.

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.”

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.

Mo joined The Island School in 2025, bringing more than 15 years of experience across commercial offshore diving, technical diving, eco-tourism management, and marine conservation to our scuba operations. He began his career in the offshore commercial sector and military diving, where he developed a strong foundation in operational discipline, risk management, and safety standards that continue to inform his leadership today. Certified as both a Life Support Technician and Diving Medic Technician, Mo has led multidisciplinary teams in demanding environments worldwide—from the Galápagos and Seychelles to India, Mexico, and the U.A.E.. Mo’s work emphasizes safety, leadership, and innovation while building programs that connect conservation goals with hands-on education. Passionately about and committed to ocean stewardship, he integrates sustainability into diving education and operations to ensure lasting impact.

Sam was born in New Zealand and grew up in Australia, where he studied Education and started his teaching career. He is passionate about travelling and experiencing new cultures, and with his Education backgroun,d he has worked as a classroom teacher in a number of countries around the world, including the UK and Mexico. Since discovering his love of diving, Sam has worked as a dive instructor, sharing his passion for the sport, and he loves teaching students to safely interact with the underwater world.

Born In Nassau, The Bahamas, and raised in the United Kingdom, Apryl is an accomplished Human Resources and Business Management professional with over a decade of experience in hospitality, wealth management, and corporate services. Throughout her career, Apryl has demonstrated expertise in policy development, employee training, payroll administration, and organizational compliance with a strong command on Bahamian labor laws and international business standards. She has successfully led HR operations for both global financial institutions and local enterprises driving operational efficiency and fostering positive workplace cultures. Apryl speaks 3 languages: English, Spanish, and conversational Mandarin. She brings a unique global perspective shaped by her international academic and professional experiences in the Bahamas, the UK, Spain, and China. She is passionate about continuous professional growth and organizational success. Apryl aims to leverage her expertise in human capital development and strategic management to support forward-thinking organizational growth and success here at The Island School.  

Makeda, also known as Ms. Keda, is no stranger to CEIS, as she truly calls The Island School her “home away from home.” Makeda previously worked at The Island School for a little over five years, serving as a Teacher Assistant and Summer Camp Leader with the Elementary Learning Center, and later as an Administrative Assistant with our educational programs, as well as our Housing Supervisor. Her family is closely connected to the school: her oldest son is a Deep Creek Middle School alum and has been a Correctional Officer for four years; her second son is currently in grade 9 at DCMS with plans to attend boarding school, and her daughter is at the ELC. Makeda is happy to be back in the field she studied, Human Resources, and looks forward to contributing to our community in meaningful ways.

Christina is the Semester Director at The Island School. She is a science teacher, outdoor educator, and educational program administrator who has worked in the United Kingdom, 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 Master’s in Biology from Miami University of Ohio. Christina believes in the place-based and hands-on learning model of The Island School—she loves to help students find their potential and grow in confidence and resilience through expeditionary learning, community living, and honing their leadership skills.

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.

Claire grew up in Charleston, South Carolina, and loves the coastal life. She cherishes marshland adventures and sun-soaked days. An adventurer at heart, Claire 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, and earned 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 returned to her blue water roots at The Island School.

Alex “Sacha” Haysey is from the U.K., and joined The Island School in January 2025 to work with the Semester program. Sacha has worked on sailing vessels throughout the Caribbean to teach gap year and semester abroad programs, including a program for foster youth in Antigua and the U.S.. When he isn’t working with students, Sacha can be found outdoors adventuring.

Abby was born and raised in 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. Abby is our lead Sustainable Systems teacher, head of expeditions, and academic coordinator. She is passionate about outdoor, place-based education; is an avid runner and biker, and enjoys spending time with friends and family.

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.

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.

Ben received his bachelor’s degree in biology from Northwestern College in Iowa, and a M.S. in fisheries and wildlife biology from Clemson University. He has worked as a stream surveyor, botanist, environmental educator, GIS specialist, and geoscience technician in a number of places across North and South America. Ben is excited to be part of The Island School and share his passion for exploration and storytelling.

Chance is originally from Texas and graduated from Davidson College in 2015 with a B.S. in biology and a B.A. in theatre. He’s spent most of his life working in informal education and scientific research, trying to understand the natural world and pass that understanding to the people around him. In 2018, Chance and his wife, Sarah Kathryn, founded a nonprofit focused on science communication. In his free time, you can find Chance staring at insects, catching snakes, trying to identify interesting plants, and being fascinated by the natural phenomena around him.

Braden comes from Canada, and brings a passion for child-led, nature-based learning to his role at The Island School. With a background in Psychology and Education–and experience teaching across the world, Braden values learning environments that are grounded in curiosity, connection, and place. He works to create a classroom where learning feels relevant, joyful, and rooted in the students’ own experiences. He invites kids to learn by doing, whether that means observing crabs on the beach, building something with their hands, or diving into a question they can’t stop thinking about. Braden encourages students to take ownership of their learning and stay connected to the world around them. When he’s not teaching, Braden enjoys being in the ocean, reading, and spending time with friends–ideally all in the same afternoon!

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.

Holly is originally from Ottawa, Canada, where she completed both her undergraduate degree in Psychology and her Bachelor of Education at the University of Ottawa. She is excited to join the teaching team at The Island School. Holly is passionate about inclusive education and enjoys creating learning experiences that are flexible, engaging, and hands-on. She’s especially interested in outdoor learning, where students can connect with the world around them in meaningful ways. She believes every student brings unique strengths to the classroom, and she values creating a space where everyone feels seen, heard, and supported. Holly is always excited to explore new ideas and be part of a learning community that celebrates growth and curiosity. Outside of teaching, she enjoys playing sports, swimming in the ocean, and getting lost in a good book.

Since joining Deep Creek Middle School in 2022, Kayla has served as a Social Studies Teacher, Math Teacher, and Assistant Principal before stepping into her current role as Principal. She holds a degree in Pre-Law with a minor in Mathematics and brings over 12 years of teaching experience to her leadership. During her career, she has taught all 4 core subjects which include Math, English, Science, and Social Studies, ranging from 5th grade to 8th grade. A dedicated mother of one, Kayla is passionate about structure, student growth, and creating an environment where both academic excellence and strong relationships thrive. Kayla is leading DCMS into a new chapter of high standards, meaningful relationships, and continued success.

Ashlee is a dedicated and enthusiastic educator eager to foster a positive and engaging learning environment. She is a Long Island native and is beginning her second year as DCMS’s English teacher. A graduate of the University of The Bahamas, she inspires students to build confidence in reading, writing, and expression while grounding her teaching in the Island School’s experiential approach.

Breea Colebrooke is a fun and energetic Social Studies teacher with a passion for making history come alive in the classroom. From North Andros, Breea enters her second year at DCMS after a successful first year of teaching Social Studies. A graduate of the University of The Bahamas, Breea combines fresh expertise with mentorship from DCMS veterans and the Island School’s experiential learning model to create engaging, student-centered lessons. 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!

Amanda Johnson graduated with a Bachelor’s in biology and chemistry and is thrilled to incorporate science, fieldwork, and teaching enthusiastic lessons into her career. She taught high school chemistry and middle school general science and encourages students to examine and appreciate the world around them. Amanda is a BWEEMS (Black Women in Ecology, Evolution, and Marine Science) member and embodies her values of commitment to representation and advocacy in the science world. She is committed to nurturing curiosity, critical thinking, and a love for science in her students. Outside of the classroom, she engages in fieldwork, works on sustainability projects, partakes in nature wonder, and embarks on nature-filled adventures. She is also interested in conservation research, outdoor education, and all things health and wellness. Amanda is eager to build relationships with students and their families, ignite passion, assist in achieving her students’ vision, and support every student in their educational journey to increase their goals.

Shavon is a proud Eleutheran and a resident of Rock Sound who brings a decade of dedicated service in public administration. For the past 10 years, she has worked with the Department of Local Government in the roles of Accounts Clerk and Office Administrator, where her commitment to community development and public service made her a valued asset to the local governance framework.

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.

Shelby is an experienced educator with a background in teaching at both the high school and university levels. He began his career teaching middle and high school Civics, History, and Geography at Aquinas College, and for the last five years has served as an instructor of record at the University of the Bahamas, where he has consistently taught political economy and social research. Previously, Shelby worked at Branksome Hall, an IB World School in Toronto, where he contributed to curriculum development, professional learning and school-wide policy with a focus on diversity, equity and inclusion. Currently, Shelby is completing his Ph.D. at McMaster University, where his research explores humanitarian intervention and its impact on community education in Haiti.

Rachel is a passionate and committed interdisciplinary scientist and outdoor educator with roots on the beautiful island of St. Lucia. She 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. Through her work with Partnership Programs at The Island School, Rachel enjoys inviting hundreds of students (local and international) to learn what it means to live well in a place.

Becca grew up in Warwickshire, England, and studied zoology at the University of Manchester before completing her master’s in zoo conservation biology at Manchester Metropolitan University. Although a scuba diver from a young age, she first discovered her passion for teaching while training as a scuba instructor, which later led her to lead animal management courses at a safari park in the U.K.. Becca joined The Island School in February 2024 and is thrilled to combine her love of teaching with her enthusiasm for outdoor adventures, the ocean, and inspiring students to explore and care for nature.

Makayla is a high energy adventurer and creative spirit dedicated to empowering the next generation. With a background that spans youth development, global nonprofit work, multimedia creation, organic farming, and holistic wellness, she brings curiosity and heart into everything she does. Makayla has lived, worked, and taught in diverse settings around the world, from Saint Vincent and the Grenadines to Zambia and now The Bahamas, where she thrived in building meaningful connections across cultures. A certified yoga and meditation instructor, Makayla combines her love of movement, mindfulness, and storytelling to create spaces where people feel inspired and supported. Whether she is leading a class, designing programs for students, coordinating international experiences, or diving into the ocean as part of her journey toward becoming a scuba instructor, Makayla is constantly seeking new ways to learn and grow. Raised between Indiana and Ohio, she carries Midwestern roots with a global outlook. Her hobbies include lifting, painting, freediving, reading, scuba diving, and finding joy in everyday adventures with friends and family. Guided by a passion for the natural world, wellness, and creativity, Makayla is committed to challenging the status quo and making a positive impact wherever life takes her.

Ruth, originally from Greencastle, Indiana, is a passionate educator focused on alternative education and sustainability. After a gap year in Monteverde, Costa Rica, she earned a B.A. in Spanish and Anthropology from Denison University. Ruth has mentored youth as a backpacking guide in Michigan and the Adirondacks and served as a cultural ambassador in Madrid, Spain. She brings a grounded, present energy to her teaching, helping students “be where their feet are.” Ruth believes learning is transformed through experience, reflection, and community. She’s excited to welcome global students and inspire them to carry their learning back home.

Maddie grew up in a coastal town in Devon, England, which allowed her to develop a strong connection with the ocean from a young age. Surrounded by the sea, she spent most of her free time sailing—whether for fun or teaching people of all ages. Her passion for the marine environment led her to pursue a BSc (Hons) in Ocean Science with Marine Conservation at the University of Plymouth, with a particular interest in Marine Policy and Marine Protected Areas. It was through this degree that Maddie first visited The Island School, participating in a fieldwork program during her final year. Maddie’s goal is to empower future generations to create a sustainable future for our oceans by sharing with them the incredible world that exists beneath the surface.

Cynthia F01 is a native of Waterford, Eleuthera, and an Island School alumna! Fascinated by what she encountered as a student, Cynthia was eager to return to CEIS. She reconnected with the Island School community in June 2025 as a mentor with Programs & Partnerships, where she spearheads the Summer Apprenticeship Program—jumping in with two feet—in addition to acting as a Deep Creek Middle School Teaching Associate. Cynthia wears many hats as she is always willing to step outside of her job description and do what is needed to help the wider community. Cythia’s kindness is contagious—she is approachable, helpful, down-to-earth, supportive, unassuming, and thoughtful.

Sophia grew up in Woodinville, Washington, where the surrounding mountains, forests, and coastline sparked her interest in the outdoors. She later moved to Santa Barbara, California, to study psychology and environmental science, where she explored how people connect with nature and place. An avid skier, backpacker, diver, and surfer, Sophia values the perspective and balance that time outside brings. Her passion for being outdoors eventually led her to the field of outdoor education, where she enjoys supporting students as they build confidence and curiosity through hands-on learning. Last year, Sophia joined The Island School as part of the Visiting Programs team, where she enjoyed working closely with students and learning alongside a passionate community. She’s thrilled to return, continuing to foster transformative experiences and share her love for environmental exploration with others.

Eric is the Director of the Cape Eleuthera Institute and is a marine scientist interested in fisheries and other human-wildlife interactions. 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.

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.

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 bachelor’s in biological sciences, a master’s in physiology, as well as a Ph.D. 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.

From The Bahamas, Michael holds a passion for fostering equitable experiences for all. He specializes in sustainable aquaculture, food security, and eco-tourism. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Exter, a M.Sc. in Sustainable Aquaculture & Systems, and a B.Sc. in Small Island Sustainability. With extensive experience in stakeholder engagement, field research, and sustainable tourism, Michael is passionate about developing innovative, science-based solutions that strengthen island economies while supporting local livelihoods.

Natalie is Bahamian and grew up in England, where she completed her bachelor’s in zoology and master’s in ecology, evolution and conservation at Imperial College London. In her role as research faculty at the Cape Eleuthera Institute, Natalie uses a combination of visual line transect surveys, photo-identification, and acoustic monitoring to collect data on the abundance and distribution of deep-diving toothed whales in the Exuma Sound. Natalie also facilitates logistics for the Hurricane Glider project in collaboration with the University of Miami CIMAS and NOAA AOML, deploying autonomous underwater vehicles into the western Atlantic to collect oceanographic data for use in hurricane models and forecasting. Natalie’s previous experience in marine research and education has taken her to Vancouver Island in Canada and Exmouth Western Australia, and she loves hiking, camping, and trail running. She has spent lots of time working outdoors and from boats teaching children how to ski and sail, and moved here with her potcake and first mate, Winnie.

Growing up on Eleuthera, Tereno developed an early love for the ocean. This ran especially deep for native aquatic creatures such as the Queen Conch and Nassau Grouper, and led him to pursue a bachelor’s in fisheries and aquaculture at Vancouver Island University. While studying in Canada, Tereno received hands-on experience culturing many diverse organisms, ranging from salmon to Pacific oysters and even geoduck. Earlier this year, though, his heart led him to bring this aquaculture expertise back to The Bahamas. These days, if you look for him, chances are you’ll find him somewhere along the coast of Eleuthera or near the waters of Nassau—two places he’s always called home. Here, he would most likely be diving into what he loves most: researching and culturing Queen Conch. Tereno is also dedicated to ensuring future generations can experience the rich marine life he cherished growing up, and—when not immersed in conch research—he prefers tinkering with code, tending to his small farm, or fishing.

Noah Sonnenberg is a Fall 2014 Island School alum who has returned to Eleuthera as a researcher and educator with the Cape Eleuthera Institute. His early experience at The Island School inspired his passion for marine science and set him on the path toward shark conservation. After earning a degree in finance from Elon University, Noah pursued his master’s in marine biology at the University of Miami, where he studied bonnethead sharks using drones and hormone analysis to understand their behavior and reproduction. At CEI, Noah is beginning a new research project that will combine drone-based surveys with field captures to study sharks in Bahamian waters. In addition to his research, Noah is excited to share this work with students, fostering the same sense of curiosity and connection to the ocean that shaped his own journey.

Paityn’s connection to The Island School began as a semester student in Fall 2015. Her time in Eleuthera deepened her love for the environment and inspired her to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from the University of Michigan, followed by a Master of Science in Environmental Science and Policy from Northeastern University. After two years working in the energy efficiency sector, Paityn has returned to The Bahamas to lead the agroforestry project at the Cape Eleuthera Institute. Her work focuses on enhancing biodiversity, improving soil health, and building ecosystem resilience, all with the goal of strengthening food security and fostering sustainable local economies.