January 15 & 16 - 7pm
Dr. Jack Stein Grove - Marine Biologist and CFK Alumnus

Dr. Grove will be drawing from 50 years of research and adventures in the Galapagos Islands, Dr. Grove will discuss the natural history and incredible wildlife of the enchanting archipelago.

Dr. Jack Stein Grove, a 1972 graduate of the College of the Florida Keys. Dr. Grove began his research in the Galapagos in 1975 when he sailed out of Miami on a three-month expedition. Since then, Jack has published numerous scientific and popular articles on his research. He worked with Jean Michele Cousteau, who wrote the foreword to his first book, published by Stanford University Press in 1997. During the presentation on January 15, Jack will share with the audience the natural history of the Islands and his adventures of the past five decades, guiding thousands of snorkelers and divers through this enchanted archipelago.

January 15 - 7pm Location: CFK's Upper Keys Center in Key Largo
January 16 - 7pm Location: Tennessee Williams Theatre, Key West

February 20 - 7pm - Tennessee Williams Theatre
Dr. Jason Spadaro - Marine Scientist, Mote Marine Laboratory

Dr. Spadaro will discuss applying new technology, novel methods and materials, and classic ecological theory to the holistic restoration of Florida’s Coral Reef. In collaboration with multiple nations and institutions, he is working with large native crab that have the potential to facilitate dramatic, large scale coral restoration.

Spadaro is engaged in collaborative projects throughout the Caribbean including Belize and Mexico where he is part of a multi-national and multi-institution team working with a large native crab whose potential to facilitate large scale coral reef restoration is dramatic.

March 27 - 7pm - Tennessee Williams Theatre
Dr. Patrick Rice - Chief Science & Research Officer, The College of the Florida Keys

Dr. Rice will outline the College's vision to leverage research as an educational tool to tackle pressing global issues. He will discuss efforts to conserve marine resources, inspire youth towards STEM careers, and promote renewable energy education for a sustainable future. By fostering hope and optimism, the College aims to cultivate future environmental stewards and lay the groundwork for a brighter tomorrow.

As CFK's Chief Science & Research Officer, Dr. Rice leads CFK projects, funded by the National Science Foundation, that focus on training the 21st-century science and technology workforce. In collaboration with industry partners, he developed the Engineering Technology– Renewable Energy Technician program, which focuses on solar, wind, and hydrokinetic power. He led students in that program to design and build a 100% electric vessel, known as the “RETV” (Renewable Energy Test Vessel), which is used for marine research and hydrokinetic technology testing. Dr. Rice holds a Ph.D. in Marine Biology and Fisheries from the University of Miami, a master's degree in Wildlife and Fisheries Science from Texas A&M University, and a Bachelor of Science in Biology (Aquatic) from the University of Texas.

April 17 - 7pm - Tennessee Williams Theatre
Dr. Douglas Mader - Veterinarian and Author

Dr. Mader will discuss the changes in the Florida Keys’ fauna and flora over recent decades, highlighting the impact of invasive species. Notable invaders include the Green iguana, pythons, Lionfish, Cuban tree frogs, Haitian curly-tailed lizards, Myna Birds, and Monk parakeets. Invasive plants like Australian Pine and Brazilian Pepper trees also pose significant threats. Each new species, regardless of size, harms the sensitive ecosystem of the Keys.

Dr. Mader received his DVM from the University of California, Davis in 1986. In addition, he completed a Residency in Primate and Zoo animal medicine. He is the consulting veterinarian for the Monroe County Sheriff's Zoo, the Key West Aquarium, Dynasty Marine, the Sea Turtle Hospital, the Everglades Alligator Farm, Zoo Miami and the Theater of the Sea. Dr. Mader is an internationally acclaimed lecturer and is on the review boards of several scientific journals. He has published numerous articles in scientific and veterinary journals, national magazines, and is the author/editor of three textbooks on Reptile Medicine and Surgery. His latest work is "The Vet at Noah's Ark - Stories of Survival from an Inner-City Animal Hospital."