Giving Circle joins female scientists, philanthropists

One thing is clear about Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium: It would not be the renowned leader in research it is today without bright female minds.

In 1955, famed “Shark Lady” Dr. Eugenie Clark, an ichthyologist recognized for her research on poisonous fish and the behavior of sharks, and philanthropist Anne Vanderbilt partnered to make the dream of Mote Marine Laboratory a reality.

Today, more than 400,000 people visit Mote’s aquarium each year to see exhibits featuring sea turtles, manatees, sharks and many other varieties of marine life. It is a leading venue of education and culture in Southwest Florida.

Continuing this legacy is a group of female philanthropists who have created the Giving Circle, a new foundation that will kick off with Tea for the Sea Feb. 21.

“Mote incorporates public outreach as a key part of our mission, including education to thousands of children across the U.S. each year and access to an incredible aquarium we have taken our children and grandchildren to,” said Kimberley Carreiro, event chairwoman and Mote supporter. “As an independent, nonprofit organization, it needs the help of people in the community to help it thrive.”

While enjoying high tea, attendees of Tea for the Sea will learn about the innovative work leading female scientists perform at Mote. All proceeds from the event benefit Mote’s research, education and outreach.

Organizing committee members are Mote supporters Beatrice Uzielli, Jane Hamburger, Merrill Bonder and Mary Lou Johnson, a Mote trustee.

In a recent news release, Jennifer Vigne, major gifts officer at Mote, described the new group and the opportunity it offers.

“Women are a mighty force in philanthropy, and at Mote, we know firsthand that female researchers are vital to the sciences,” Vigne said. “We believe that bringing them together will allow them to truly blossom.”

The event is sponsored by the Resort at Longboat Key Club, The Met, Suncoast Motor Sports and Saks Fifth Avenue.

To purchase tickets, contact Erin Knievel at 388-4441 or [email protected].

IF YOU GO
Mote Marine Laboratory Tea for the Sea

When: 2:30 to 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21

Where: Longboat Key Club’s Harbourside Dining Room, 3000 Harbourside Drive

Cost: $100; higher levels of sponsorship are available

Contact Kelsey Grau at [email protected]