We are so excited to announce that we have two marine science educators joining our team of ocean advocates. Our newest educators are excited to bring their previous experience in environmental education to working with children and families here in Southwest Florida. Sanibel Sea School is thrilled to have Brianna and Dana aboard their all-women crew! Read a little more about them below.

Dana Donkle

Where are you from?

I was born and raised in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Where did you go to school and what did you study?

I went to the University of South Carolina, and majored in Marine Science and minored in Studio Art.

What do you look forward to while teaching at Sanibel Sea School?

While teaching on Sanibel, I really look forward to seeing the reactions of kids who have never seen the ocean. The ocean is so new to some kids, and I think everyone must experience it in order to love and care for it.

What do you like to do in your time off?

I enjoy painting sea creatures, doing yoga, exploring new places, and of course anything nature related!

What is your favorite sea creature?

An Octopus is my all-time favorite sea creature and animal in general. A wunderpus to be specific. 

What’s the best music for a weekend at the beach?

If I’m listening to music on the beach it will most likely be Reggae influenced!

If you could visit any marine ecosystem on the planet, where would you go?

If I could visit any marine ecosystem it would probably be the descent from the twilight zone all the way to the hydrothermal vents around the Mariana Trench. I’ve always wanted to explore the depths of the ocean.

Is there anything else you’d like to share about yourself?

I love to combine my two passions of painting and marine science, I especially love to paint cephalopods! I would love art to always be an active role in my career.

---

Brianna Machuga

Where are you from?

I’m from Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio.

Where did you go to school and what did you study?

I went to Kent State University in Ohio. I started off studying Special Education, but ended up getting my degree in Environmental and Conservation Biology with a concentration in Environmental Policy and Management. 

What do you look forward to while teaching at Sanibel Sea School?

I look forward to getting to experience the wonders of the natural world through the eyes of the kids who visit. 

What do you like to do in your time off?

In my time off I enjoy doing yoga, going dancing, and reading by the beach. 

What is your favorite sea creature?

My favorite Sea creature changes just about every day, but today it is the spotted eagle ray. 

What’s the best music for a weekend at the beach?

Anything by Kenny Chesney. 

If you could visit any marine ecosystem on the planet, where would you go?

I would LOVE to visit the Great Barrier Reef.