Three Influential Women Elevate New College’s Marine Mammal Science Program

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The article below originally appeared in Sarasota Magazine’s “Women of Influence” issue in June 2024.

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The meteoric launch of New College of Florida’s groundbreaking Master’s in Marine Mammal Science program, unique in the U.S., was driven by the dedication of these three exceptionally talented and accomplished women. Their unwavering commitment and expertise made this innovative undersea studies program a reality in little less than a year from its formal proposal. “I envisioned this program more than a decade ago, knowing it could transform our college and community, but it took the perfect alignment of timing and funding to make it happen,” says Heidi.  

With an established team of faculty akin to a world class research institution, an enthusiastic administration, and financial backing from the New College Foundation, the program intends to enroll students for Fall 2024.

The idea of developing a Marine Mammal Science program is what drove Elizabeth to join the Foundation’s board and to co-chair its largest fundraising event, the Annual Clambake, which raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for the new program. “Sarasota Bay is home to the longest-studied society of wild dolphins and has regional laboratories and research based aquariums in place,” she says. “Making Sarasota the home for future generations of elite marine mammal researchers is a true game-changer.”

The number one strategic priority for New College today is to connect passionate donors and fundraisers with inspired projects and further integrate the school into the wider community, says Sydney.  “Elizabeth and Heidi are champions for this program, and we will find other passionate people to unite around initiatives that will move the earth at New College.”

More about New College and the Marine Mammal Science master’s degree program:

  • Founded in Sarasota in 1960, New College of Florida offers more than 50 undergraduate majors in arts, humanities and sciences; master’s degree programs in applied data science and in marine mammal science; exceptional STEM opportunities; and intercollegiate athletics in the NAIA.

  • Ideally situated right on Sarasota Bay, the nascent Marine Mammal Science graduate degree program is unique in the U.S. New College has taken it from concept in May 2023 to launch in August 2024, thanks to academic leadership and philanthropic efforts.

  • The program will attract scholars and research grants, boosting blue economy initiatives in Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.