Sanibel Sea School is thrilled to welcome a new marine science educator to the team! Emily Pipkin joined the team earlier this month, taking on a crucial role in educating children and adults about the importance of loving and caring for our oceans. 

Emily was born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland. She developed a strong passion for animals at a young age. Growing up, she spent summers at the beach and was always fascinated by the ocean and its creatures. 

“As I got older, I became particularly interested in the role of sharks as apex predators and their importance in ocean conservation,” she says.

Emily graduated from the University of San Diego, where she majored in environmental and ocean sciences and minored in sociology. She also received her Open Water Scuba Certification (PADI) while studying abroad in New Zealand. 

After college, she moved to Fort Myers, where she worked as a STEM educator in various non-traditional settings.

“I’m excited to work at Sanibel Sea School because I love being able to share my passion for the ocean with people of all ages,” says Emily. “I hope this inspires future generations to protect it.”

Marine science educators are vital in delivering experiential educational programs to diverse age groups, ranging from 4-year-olds to adults, both in the field and in the classroom. Emily has been assisting in the Homeschool at Sea and after-school programs since joining the team of five year-round educators.

“Some of my favorite moments so far have been witnessing a child see a horseshoe crab for the first time and guiding students through a hands-on squid dissection,” said Emily. “I also feel very grateful to be part of such an amazing team — it is very clear that everyone here has so much passion for ocean conservation!” 

Part of the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF), Sanibel Sea School’s mission is to improve the ocean’s future, one person at a time.