(South Eleuthera, The Bahamas) Not every 10 year old gets a commemorative stone sculpture, a plethora of goals to accomplish for their second decade, and a rousing birthday party, but the research institute at Cape Eleuthera got all three on December 2nd, 2016, with fanfare.
The keynote scientific speaker at the weekend of events was Dr. Edie Widder, founder and head of research at Ocean Research and Conservation Association, who shared with the young students at The Island School that their work solving real world problems was both a great service and great preparation. She told inspiring stories of making a difference for ecosystems and animals in the deep ocean and around the world. “We need more young people like those here at Cape Eleuthera Institute taking on the challenges and opportunities in the natural world, and learning how to make a difference from a young age as an integral part of their schooling.”
“This day was not guaranteed when the journey began” said President of the Bahamas National Trust Mr. Eric Carey, reflecting on the visioning conference at Cape Eleuthera in 2003 and the progress that had been made since then. “By being here today, you represent all of us who played a part in realizing the vision of founders Chris and Pam Maxey to bring together a learning community of scientists and students to collaborate with support of universities and partners to achieve significant conservation and research milestones for the country. We take pause today to celebrate all that has been accomplished, and call forward those who might contribute to, and set the future course for, this research institute’s study of the natural world and service to our local communities. We hope that all of our neighbors here might be enriched by the work, learning, education, and friendships with colleagues and students made possible through those involved with supporting The Island School and Cape Eleuthera Institute.”
The event was also attended by Deputy Prime Minister the Hon. Philip Davis, Hon. MP Loretta Butler-Turner, Casuarina McKinney-Lambert, Execitive Director of BREEF, and representatives from the Leon Levy Preserve, and renowned Bahamian artist Antonius Roberts.
