Shell museum to present next lecture in series
The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium on Sanibel will continue with its 2026 Season Lecture Series at the museum, at 3075 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel. The next one will be on:
– March 12 at 5:30 p.m.: “Designing and Opening the New Mote Science Education Aquarium” with Mote Aquarium Associate Vice President Evan Barniskis
The talk will present an insider’s view of one of the most important additions in decades to marine science education in Florida: the design and construction of the Mote Marine Laboratory’s newly opened, $130 million Science Education Aquarium in Sarasota.
Attendees will learn how the cutting-edge facility blends world-class architecture with Mote’s 70-year legacy of marine research, scientific innovation and aquarium expertise; and the process of transferring and translating marine science into interactive and dynamic exhibits that advance ocean conservation, public engagement and sustainability.
Barniskis joined the Mote Marine Laboratory in 2006. In his current role, he oversees all aspects of Mote Aquarium’s operations.
The cost is $10 for non-members and free for members.
Registration includes choice of wine, beer or non-alcoholic beverage and light snacks.
The remaining lectures will include:
– April 8: “The Future of Florida’s Coasts: What We Can Learn from the History of Tampa Bay” with Florida Atlantic University history professor Evan Bennett
The series is supported by the Sam and Francis Bailey Clean Water Education Center, Leslie Fleischner, and Joan and Don Sherman.
To register or for more information, visit https://shellmuseum.org/learn-and-experience/lectures/.
The website also features a free archive of previously recorded lectures for viewing.
The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium is at 3075 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel.