Aly Busse has an extensive career in informal science education, including aquariums, museums and community outreach programs, working to bring scientists and their research to the public, translating current scientific findings into meaningful, interactive opportunities for a variety of audiences. At Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, she leads a team that serves over 30,000 participants each year in Sarasota and the Florida Keys, as well as conducts virtual learning programs that reach audiences around the world. She also oversees a volunteer corps of over 1,300 and college internship programs serving about 220 students per year.  

Under her leadership, Mote’s education programming continues to expand, meeting the needs of all types of participants. From adding additional virtual learning opportunities during the COVID-19 pandemic to targeted outreach efforts with partners to reach new communities, Aly’s work to improve access to informal marine science education is paying off. In 2019, Mote received a prestigious grant to establish the Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation: Marine Science Laboratory Alliance Center of Excellence (MarSci-LACE), with Aly as a co-lead on the project. Building on Mote’s successful model for meaningful internships, MarSci-LACE aims to open doors into marine science research, education and careers for underrepresented, minority students.  

The future Mote Science Education Aquarium will also significantly improve public access to marine science and technology in Southwest Florida and beyond. At the new facility, Aly and team will offer 65,000 students from Sarasota and Manatee county schools access to free, annual education opportunities.  

 About Us:

• Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium was started in 1955 by world-famous shark researcher Dr. Eugenie Clark.  

• Mote’s research programs span the globe and range from aquaculture research to coral reef restoration in the Florida Keys to efforts to conserve sharks in countries around the world.   

• Science will be the attraction at the new Mote Science Education Aquarium, currently being constructed at Nathan Benderson Park. Three STEM teaching labs, focused on marine ecology, biomedical research and ocean technology, will provide schools the opportunity to engage with Mote educators and scientists alike.  

1600 Ken Thompson Parkway  

Sarasota, FL 34236 

(941) 388-4441 

mote.org