Written by Danielle Cartwright & Lily Haines
We are officially back in the swing of our summer internship cycle at the Perry Institute for Marine Science! One of our primary goals is to increase capacity in marine conservation and research within the country. This summer, we are excited to introduce a dynamic group of college students who share our passion for marine science and environmental stewardship!
Blocked Creek Intern Charissa Taylor
From New Providence, intern Charissa Taylor is working on the Blocked Creek project this summer. An incoming sophomore at Barry University, Charissa is majoring in Marine Biology and aspires to become involved in environmental law. Her journey into marine conservation began in 2016 when she attended sail camp, sparking a deep love for the marine environment. Charissa is also a former 2023 Rising Tides student, where she demonstrated her commitment and passion for marine conservation. We are thrilled to have Charissa back with us, bringing her enthusiasm and dedication to the Blocked Creek project!
Fisheries Intern Gadville McDonald
Our fisheries intern, Gadville McDonald, is currently studying Marine Biology at Dalhousie University. Gadville’s fascination with the marine environment started in his childhood as a former swimmer. His academic background and personal experiences have shaped his dedication to marine biology, and we are excited to see how he contributes to our fisheries research and sustainability efforts this summer.
Community Engagement Intern Andria Conliffe
Andria Conliffe, another former Rising Tides student, is studying Marine Biology at Barry University. This summer, Andria is our Community Conservation Education and Action (CCEA) intern. She has long aspired to help conserve the marine environment, and her role will focus on engaging and educating local communities about the importance of marine conservation. Andria’s dedication to education and her passion for the marine environment make her a perfect fit for this position.
Working alongside our Abaco Program Manager, Denise Mizell, are three dynamic ladies who are equally passionate about marine conservation:
Abaco Mangrove Intern Kaitlyn Gaitor
Kaitlyn Gaitor, a student at the Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute (BAMSI), is our Abaco mangrove intern this year. Growing up in Abaco, Kaitlyn developed an interest in the marine and natural environment from a young age, participating in summer programs at Friends of the Environment. Her local knowledge and enthusiasm for mangrove ecosystems will be invaluable to our projects.
Abaco Mangrove & Coral Intern Haley Bethell
Joining Kaitlyn is Haley Bethell, the mangrove and coral intern. Haley is currently a junior at the University of Tampa and also hails from Abaco. She is passionate about protecting our oceans and environment and is eager to gain hands-on skills and conservation techniques this summer. Haley’s commitment to marine conservation is evident, and we are excited to support her growth and contributions.
Abaco Coral Intern Delaney Mizell
Delaney Mizell, also from Abaco, is our coral intern. A sophomore at the University of Tampa majoring in Environmental Studies, Delaney has been enamored by the ocean since youth and holds her dive master’s certification. Her diving expertise and passion for coral conservation will play a crucial role in our coral reef projects.
We are incredibly proud to have Charissa, Gadville, Andria, Kaitlyn, Haley, and Delaney join us this summer! Their enthusiasm, knowledge, and commitment to marine conservation are essential to the success of our projects. As they embark on their internships, we are confident they will gain invaluable experience and make significant contributions to marine science and conservation efforts. Stay tuned on our social media channels for updates on their exciting projects and achievements throughout the summer. Welcome to the team, interns!
Rewilding the Marls of Abaco: PIMS Plants 100,000 Mangroves and Counting in 2024
As the afternoon sun bathes the Marls of Abaco in golden light, Bahamian boat captain Willis Levarity–locally known as “Captain to the Stars”–stands ankle-deep in
Unveiling Coral Reef Biodiversity: Insights from ARMS Monitoring Structures
An ARM teeming with new coral recruits and a diversity of marine life, highlighting reef recovery and biodiversity Understanding Coral Reef Biodiversity Most new PhDs
7 Key Takeaways from COP16: Confronting Coral Reef Challenges in a Changing Climate
United #ForCoral: Experts, advocates, and leaders from across the globe join forces at COP16 for the #ForCoral conference, hosted by the International Coral Reef Initiative.
Fieldwork Wrap-Up: Strengthening MPA Management in The Bahamas
Marine protected areas (MPAs) are critical tools in the conservation of marine species and habitats, safeguarding reefs, seagrasses, and mangroves that provide vital ecosystem services
Coral Reef Monitoring with Photogrammetry: A New Era in Reef Health Assessment
Coral reefs are some of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet, providing crucial habitat for marine life and protecting coastal regions from erosion. Yet,
Watch “We Among the Reef:” A Documentary on the Abaco Barrier Reef
The Perry Institute for Marine Science invites you to watch “We Among the Reef,” a compelling documentary that illuminates the significance of the Abaco Barrier
