Sanibel Sea School Director Nicole Finnicum is ending her eight-year journey with Sanibel Sea School to return to her home state, where she has accepted a position in Experiential Learning at her alma mater, Ohio University.

Finnicum began in 2003 as a marine science educator, continuing to co-create curriculum and indelible ocean experiences for local schoolchildren and launching the Ocean Tribe Paddlers Club.

“Sanibel Sea School is a truly magical place,” she says. “We get to share the wonders of the ocean with kids and inspire them to care about our blue planet. The experience is transformative.”

Previously the Education Programs Manager at Sanibel Sea School, Shannon Stainken will take on the new role of SCCF Youth Education Director. Finnicum says Stainken “is an outstanding leader” who “will continue to share the magic of the ocean with so many kiddos. I can’t wait to see what’s next for the awesome team at Sea School–I know they will do great things.”