News

Introduction by Gina McClain, Volunteer Specialist

Morgan has long loved manatees, and we’re so thrilled that she brought her enthusiasm to our volunteer manateam! With her knowledge of marine biology, she’s been a wonderful educator at several events. She has several events under her belt now, and we look forward to seeing her growth as she continues her volunteer journey.

What made you decide to start volunteering with Save the Manatee Club?

When I was in elementary school in Michigan, I was always very captivated by marine life and would often check out any marine books I could find. As a kindergartener, I discovered a book about Florida manatees with the address of Save the Manatee Club in the back pages, so I sent many letters, nickels, and dimes and received many letters and educational materials in return, which I excitedly shared with friends and family. I became totally enthralled with all things centered around manatees, and my parents adopted a manatee for me as a gift. Now years later, I moved to South Florida for college to pursue a degree in marine biology and immediately had the desire to reconnect with Save the Manatee Club. When I learned how simple it was to volunteer, I was so excited to give back and work with the same organization that had encouraged my love for manatees! I am thrilled to build upon my passion for conservation, and I hope to be able to spark the same excitement in the people we encounter that was sparked in me.

Who is your adopted manatee, and why did you choose them?

My adopted manatee is Whiskers! I chose him because not only is he adorable, but he was also the manatee my parents adopted for me as a kid. I loved watching the webcam footage from Blue Spring State Park and hoping to spot him with his mother, Dana. His playful, energetic, and curious personality always stuck with me and is always so much fun. Re-adopting him was so exciting and nostalgic.

Do you have any favorite moments or experiences while volunteering?

As a volunteer, I absolutely love interacting with the kids and seeing how excited they are to learn about how cool manatees can be! It is always so sweet when they want to talk about any facts they know or a time they saw a manatee. Watching their eyes light up when they hear what a manatee sounds like for the first time is particularly fun for me. From handing out stickers to bookmarks, seeing a younger group developing a love for manatees, inspiring a desire to protect them is so rewarding and enjoyable to watch unfold.

Tell us briefly about your hobbies, interests, career, where you’re originally from, etc.

I grew up in Michigan and very recently moved down to South Florida to get a degree in marine biology (which would be tricky to do up North). In my free time, I volunteer at a marine biology lab on Biscayne Bay, where I learn so much. I also enjoy playing sports, including basketball and lacrosse, reading, spending time with friends/family, and of course volunteering with Save the Manatee Club!