Celebrating 20 Years of CEI
Cape Eleuthera Institute Celebrates 20 Years of Research, Innovation, and Education
Since 2006, the Cape Eleuthera Institute (CEI) has worked at the intersection of science, sustainability, innovation, and education in South Eleuthera.
What originally began as an ambitious aquaculture project has since evolved into one of the Caribbean’s leading environmental research institutions. For the past two decades, CEI has developed a research program that supports a robust experiential learning curriculum for The Island School’s educational programs, while helping shape environmental policy and scientific understanding throughout The Bahamas and beyond.
Our work addresses a wide range of the most pressing environmental issues facing our oceans and island habitats. Today, CEI maintains its identity as a hub for research and innovation where scientists, engineers, educators, and students work together to conduct meaningful work spanning the fields of conservation, sustainability, marine and terrestrial science, and outreach and engagement.
CEI Hope 20 Summit: Celebrating 20 years of Science, Conservation, and Education
This year marks 20 years of research and innovation at the Cape Eleuthera Institute, a moment for both reflection and a call forward. We celebrate two decades of research grounded in place and purpose, while inviting what comes next: deeper collaboration, shared questions, and new opportunities to bring people together around science. As CEI advances its conservation efforts, this gathering puts research at the center, connecting scientists, partners, and ecosystem builders to drive the next chapter of discovery and impact. Join us for the Hope 20 Summit, where scientists, policymakers, educators, and community leaders will come together to celebrate environmental stewardship.
More details to come soon.
For more information, please reach out to Kennedy Bliss (kennedybliss@islandschool.org) or submit an inquiry form by clicking below.
Schedule of Events
Monday, November 30
Arrival to Campus
6pm: Evening Circle & Dinner at The Island School
7pm: Welcome Reception
Tuesday, December 1
8am: Breakfast
9am: Student Research Symposium & Keynote Address
A morning of research and learning presented by our Island School Semester and Deep Creek Middle School students. This event is an opportunity to learn about the research conducted at the CEI in conjunction with our educational programs.
12pm: Lunch
1pm: Campus & Wetlab Tour | Current Research Showcase
See firsthand how our campus has evolved– from our solar installations and iconic aquaponics system to our new mobile lab conch hatchery and agroforestry site.
3pm: 20 years of CEI Panel
Hear from our research team and partners as we discuss the milestones, challenges, and opportunities that have defined our history and will shape our future.
6pm: Dinner
7pm: Evening Reception & Additional Speakers
Celebrate with friends and colleagues as we share stories, reconnect, and reflect on the people, partnerships, and experiences that have made CEI a place of lasting impact.
Wednesday, December 2
8am: Breakfast
9am: Field Research Activities
Join our research teams for a day out in the field. You might head out to survey queen conch surveys in the Schooner Cays, observe marine mammals in the Exuma Sound, tour the coral nursery at Tunnel Rock, or visit a lemon shark nursery ground in the mangrove creeks.
12pm: Lunch
1pm: Optional Activities & Goodbyes
Give in Honor of 20 Years
Your generosity has been instrumental in shaping the Cape Eleuthera Institute into the dynamic hub of research, education, and conservation it is today. Over the past 20 years, our commitment to experiential learning, innovation, and environmental stewardship has flourished through a deeply engaged and supportive community. As we celebrate this milestone, we are grateful for the partners who have made this work possible, and your continued support will help drive CEI into the decades ahead.
For additional information, contact Kennedy Bliss (kennedybliss@islandschool.org).