In The News
See What’s Making Headlines at Hobe Sound Nature Center
Stay up to date with the latest happenings at the Hobe Sound Nature Center! Here, you’ll find recent media coverage, community highlights, and exciting stories that showcase our programs, wildlife encounters, and conservation efforts. It’s a great way to see how we’re making an impact in our local community.
Hobe Sound Nature Center Names Dr. Hada Herring as New Executive Director
A marine scientist, educator, and conservation leader, Dr. Herring brings more than a decade of experience in marine mammal conservation, environmental education, scientific research, and nonprofit leadership. She recently completed her Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in Science Education at the University of Florida and has held leadership, teaching, and research positions with the University of Florida, the University of Miami, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Her work has focused on connecting communities with science, fostering environmental stewardship, and creating meaningful educational experiences for learners of all ages.
Volunteer of the Month - Delilah Benton
Delilah is a passionate, enthusiastic, and career-oriented volunteer with interests in herpetology, marine biology, journalism, and global issues.
Partnering for Florida's Future: Waterway Warriors
As part of Chapman School of Seamanship's summer camp program, Hobe Sound Nature Center educators teach students about local wildlife, conservation challenges, and the ways responsible boating practices help preserve Florida's natural resources.
Bringing Marine Science Back to Our Community: FMSEA Conference Recap
In April, our Education Team Managers, Lindsey and Yasmeen, attended the 2026 Florida Marine Science Educators Association (FMSEA) Conference in Fort Pierce.
Earth Day Celebration Brings Community Together
On April 18, 2026, Hobe Sound Nature Center welcomed more than 300 community members for our Earth Day Celebration.
Volunteer of the Month - Ann Hunter
Originally from New York, Ann moved to Miami at age five and later spent six years in Key West before settling in Jupiter—where she’s called home for over 40 years.
Volunteer of the Month - Elaine Flaherty
Elaine spent many years working as a medical scribe and assistant for a large ophthalmology practice before retiring and moving to Hobe Sound five years ago. With a lifelong love of animals, she quickly found her place at the Nature Center.
Volunteer of the Month Mark Belli
We are proud to recognize Mark Belli as our Volunteer of the Month for March!
Mark’s reliability, positivity, and willingness to wear multiple hats, make him an invaluable part of our team. His work may often happen quietly in the background, but its impact is felt everywhere. Thank you, Mark, for playing such an essential role in keeping our spaces safe, welcoming, and ready for learning each day!
Investing in Sea Turtle Conservation
Wildlife Educator, Yasmeen Bruno proudly represented Hobe Sound Nature Center at the 29th Annual Florida Marine Turtle Permit Holder Meeting (FMTPHM), hosted by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and Wildlife Alert on February 27–28, 2026.
Engaging the Community through Outreach
The Hobe Sound Nature Center was grateful to support the local community through our participation in the the Natural Areas Festival and Waterways Day in late January.
Volunteer of the Month Kelly Parry-Sanchez
Volunteer of the month, Kelly Parry-Sanchez is a rock star! Her dedication to the mission of the nature center is evident through her investment in assisting with animal care, leading weekly museum programs, and supporting off-site outreach events. As a retired special education teacher of 40 years, she is a natural at engaging learners of all ages and abilities with patience, creativity, and care. She consistently goes above and beyond, always making herself available and maintaining a stellar attendance record.
Welcome, Julia McGowan!
Growing up, Julia always had a fascination with wildlife and marine ecosystems. From a young age, she nurtured her love for nature by watching documentaries on channels such as Animal Planet and spending time on the ocean during boat trips with her father.
TRAINING THE NEXT GENERATION OF SCIENTISTS
Pine School Students rolled up their sleeves and stepped into the role of real scientists at the Hobe Sound Nature Center.
Volunteer of the Month - Jim Mandeville
Please join us in celebrating Jim Mandeville on being our Volunteer of the Month!!
Volunteer of the Month - Thierry DiManche
Please join us in celebrating Thierry DiManche on reaching an incredible milestone at the Hobe Sound Nature Center—1,000 volunteer hours!
Casting a Love for Conservation: Hook Kids on Fishing Reels in Fun and Learning
In May 2025, the Hobe Sound Nature Center proudly hosted the Hook Kids on Fishing event in partnership with Anglers for Conservation—a fun, hands-on program that introduced children ages 5–15 to the joys of fishing and the importance of conservation. Taught by professional guides, experienced anglers, and marine scientists, the event offered an engaging mix of education and outdoor adventure for young participants and their families.
Inspiring Young Minds, Nature Center Shines at Westgate K-8 Family Night
The Hobe Sound Nature Center took part in the Westgate K-8’s Family Night, a community event that welcomed over 500 families eager to connect with local resources.
Hands-On Nature-Based STEM Activities @ UM
The Hobe Sound Nature Center brought hands-on nature-based STEM activities to hundreds of curious young minds, sparking wonder through everything from animal encounters to wildlife conservation.
Volunteer of the Month Patrick Dolan
We love our volunteers at the Hobe Sound Nature Center! Congratulations to Patrick Dolan, our May volunteer of the month. We appreciate all you do!
In Loving Memory of Nina B. Griswold (1930 - 2025)
It is with profound gratitude and love that we remember Nina Griswold, a true champion of conservation and a steadfast supporter of the Hobe Sound Nature Center. Nina lived a long and meaningful life dedicated to protecting the natural world, leaving behind a legacy that will never
be forgotten.