We are excited to announce that our very own Jake Raterman was recently awarded FGCU’s Excellence in Civic Engagement Award for his dedicated service to Sanibel Sea School. 

FGCU’s Excellence in Civic Engagement Award is a highly competitive honor awarded to 10 graduating seniors each semester. Although a minimum number of service-learning hours is required to be considered, this award primarily recognizes the impact of a student’s service-learning experiences on their own growth, development, and career preparation, as well as on specific social issues in the community. 

Jake grew up spending his summers at Sanibel Sea School, and after graduating from high school, he returned as a summer camp counselor to share his love of the ocean and help create unforgettable summer memories with other children. 

“My journey with Sanibel Sea School was especially meaningful because it was a full-circle moment in my own life,” says Jake. “I grew up attending summer camp at Sanibel Sea School, and those summers on the island sparked my love for the ocean and my respect for the environment. Returning years later as a camp counselor gave me the chance to step into the role of mentor for a new generation of campers.” 

In addition to being a camp counselor, Jake volunteered over 200 hours at Sanibel Sea School during his senior year to teach children in day courses, on field trips, after school, and in A Chance to Sea programs. 

“My time with Sanibel Sea School strengthened my understanding of civic responsibility by helping me understand how teaching young people to care for their environment helps sustain the health of our local and global communities,” he said. “This experience is directly tied to my coursework in Child & Youth Studies, specifically my courses in Informal Learning Environments, Youth & Community Leadership, and Family & Community Partnerships. I left with a deeper appreciation for experiential learning as a tool for empowerment.” 

Jake graduated from FGCU this past December with a B.A. in Theatre and a B.S. in Child & Youth Studies. 

“Jake is a perfect example of why our mission at Sanibel Sea School is so important. Impacting children’s lives through our programs and inspiring future environmental stewards goes hand-in-hand with protecting our oceans,” says Sanibel Sea School Director Shannon Rivard.  “We are so proud of Jake and are so excited to see where his future will take him!” 

Sanibel Sea School is currently hiring Summer Camp Counselors. Learn more and apply here.