Meet the Members

Thankful for Support

For more than 50 years, FAU Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute has led the way in ocean exploration, conducted cutting-edge marine science research and educated generations of scientists and ocean stewards. The FAU Harbor Branch team has made ground-breaking discoveries in the fields of drug discovery, sustainable seafood production, green technology development and ecosystem conservation, while tackling some of the most pressing issues facing coastal and ocean environments. You can make an impact too by joining the FAU Harbor Branch Benefactors Society and directly supporting the efforts of a world-renowned oceanographic institute. Members of this annual giving program also receive discounts on tours and merchandise, as well as invitations to special events, immersive experiences and more.

From left: Alberto and Celina Grubicy and Bryan Pearce at a 50th anniversary event for Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institutue.

Continued Support

Raymond Chladny and Debbie Veltkamp are entering their second year as members of the FAU Harbor Branch Benefactors Society, an annual giving program that allows members of the community to support the Institute’s many research, education and outreach programs. When asked about why they chose to renew their membership, Chladny said:

“FAU Harbor Branch, through its continued research and sharing, is an incredible beacon of hope and joyful enlightenment protecting our Indian River Lagoon, oceans and humanity," Chladny said.

Veltkamp agreed. "It's the Treasure Coast's real treasure. We are very honored to be part of this wonderful family."

Deep Dive

In November, members of the FAU Harbor Branch Benefactors Society listened as Jim Masterson, Ph.D., assistant research professor at the FAU Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, gave two talks about the Indian River Lagoon and the unique challenges it faces.

Masterson's presentations were part of a three-part learning experience called the Deep Dives Lecture Series, designed specifically for members. For the final lecture, Masterson will delve into how FAU Harbor Branch researchers are working to improve the health of this important estuary.

“Jim is an exceptional teacher and I learn so much from his lectures,” said Sandy Stevenson, attendee.

Barbara Utz, also an attendee, agreed. “Excellent lecture. Dr. Masterson was very informative and well organized.”

Impactful Partnerships

Last week, FAU Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute hosted its first Benefactors Society Learning Luncheon.

Three FAU Harbor Branch graduate students (past and present) took center stage to present their research and share career plans.

Obby Tapley, luncheon attendee, said special events like this are perks of being a member of the Benefactors Society. "I have volunteered at Harbor Branch for several years at the winter Ocean Science Lecture Series and in aquaculture research. After experiencing the energy and devotion of the FAU Harbor Branch scientists, I decided to support FAU Harbor Branch and join the Benefactors Society. Invitations to benefactor events like the Oct. 19 luncheon give us special access to the fascinating research and scientists at the FAU Harbor Branch community," Tapley said.

Impactful Partnerships

Meet valuable members of the Benefactors Society of FAU Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, whose contributions support significant and timely research, impacting critical ocean issues.

Who: Herbert and Victoria Mumford
Herbert spent decades as an engineer before retiring, including as the director of engineering for the Idaho National Laboratory. Victoria is an artist and worked in the human resources department for a power company in Washington D.C., helping the company give back to the community.

The couple regularly attends the FAU Harbor Branch Ocean Lecture the Series.

What: Founders Society

Why: “We do need to be concerned about the future of our planet. It’s more painful and obvious that global changes due to greenhouse gasses are a serious threat and are affecting everything. That was one of the big reasons we wanted to get behind what FAU Harbor Branch is doing,” Herbert said. “If you look out the window and see the scale of the ocean, you realize this is the only place you can make a difference in carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.”