Heidi Duncanson | Development and Communications Coordinator
Two staff members at the Seacoast Science Center (SSC) have recently earned Master of Arts degrees in Biology from Miami University through Project Dragonfly and its Global Field Program. The Center’s Director of Mission Kate Leavitt and School & Group Program Manager Sarah Perez have both completed two years of study, including international travel and research, to earn degrees through this program with a conservation focus.
Since joining the Global Field Program (GFP) master’s in 2016, Kate has traveled to Baja, Belize and Australia, and has conducted projects that have made a difference in the Seacoast region. By applying the tools of science, education and conservation gained during her studies, Kate has been developing new and enhanced programming at Seacoast Science Center.
During pursuit of her master’s degree, Sarah has traveled and done field work in Thailand, Australia and Baja. She is part of the education team at Seacoast Science Center and has been bringing new ideas, topics and global perspectives to environmental education programs being offered at the Center.
“We are so proud to have two more members of our staff earn advanced degrees,” said Jim Chase, President of Seacoast Science Center. “As an ocean science organization, we strive to offer the best, most impactful programming for learners of all ages. The new perspective that Kate and Sarah bring from their conservation biology studies and world travel is invaluable as we move forward with designing new visitor programs, school visit options and community education opportunities.”
The GFP master’s degree and Earth Expeditions courses are designed for educators and other professionals from all disciplines and settings interested in making a difference in human and ecological communities. Applicants can be from anywhere in the United States or abroad. More information about the GFP is located at gfp.miamioh.edu.
Miami University’s Project Dragonfly reaches millions of people each year through inquiry-driven learning media, public exhibits and graduate programs worldwide. Project Dragonfly is based in the department of biology at Miami University, a state university in Oxford, Ohio. Miami was established in 1809 and is listed as one of the eight original Public Ivies.
