Our Vision
We will create the spectacular new Mote Science Education Aquarium on 12 acres in Nathan Benderson Park, a nexus site for Sarasota and Manatee counties and the southwest Florida Region. Mote SEA will improve access to marine science education for diverse learners, allowing future ocean leaders to discover their passion for science, technology and conservation. Creating Mote SEA represents a vital step forward in the mission of Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, which is dedicated to world-class marine science and conservation to support conservation and sustainable use of marine and coastal biodiversity, healthy habitats and natural resources.
Renderings are subject to change.
Immersive Learning
Guests will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in marine research, essentially becoming a scientist for the day. Mote’s unique and longstanding history of scientific excellence, and effective translation and transference of science for public benefit, will flourish and shine at our new Mote SEA.
Science Education Programs for Youth
Perhaps most importantly, the new Mote SEA will grow our award-winning, informal science education programs. From pre-K children to retired adults, from family-focused education programs to National Science Foundation-supported research internships and teacher professional development workshops, Mote tailors marine science education for myriad audiences at every stage of life.
Learn More: Download our Case for Support
Reaching Underserved Populations
Mote will expand education access and participation of learners from populations that are underserved or underrepresented in marine science and technology. Whether we’re encouraging girls to excel in scientific fields, involving at-risk youths in ocean technology product development, or engaging local communities in volunteer citizen science projects, Mote’s SEA will provide hands-on marine science and technology research experience opportunities that reach far and serve all.
32,317 students attended our education programs in 2021.
These numbers will more than double with the new Mote SEA.
Tell Me How I Can Get Involved
We cannot achieve these critical goals alone. You can be part of this important new era for Mote, our community and our region. The oceans serve us all. It is time to give back and fuel the science and public education required to achieve lasting impact for our shared marine resources. Please join us in making this vision a reality.
Learn more about how you can help today: Contact Michael Moore, Special Advisor for Mote’s Office of the President, at (941) 388-4441 ext. 309 or mmoore@mote.org
We are truly grateful for your help in advancing the important work of bringing marine science education to all.