Join us as we hear from Holly Martel Bourbon, Director of Dive Programs at the National Aquarium, as she shares the behind-the-scenes story of Blacktip Reef, the iconic exhibit opened at the National Aquarium in 2013. As the Curator and Dive Safety Officer brought on to lead this ambitious project, Holly will walk through the design, planning, and animal acquisition process—from concept to opening day. Learn how the team brought this vibrant Indo-Pacific habitat to life, including the complex logistics of species selection, transport, dive operations, and ongoing care for the animals that call Blacktip Reef home.
Holly Martel Bourbon (Women Divers Hall of Fame 2007) is the Director of Dive Programs at the National Aquarium, leading staff and volunteer divers in all aspects of underwater operations and safety. With over 35 years of scuba experience, she is a PADI MSDT Instructor, DAN and PSI Instructor, AAUS Scientific Diver, and REEF Level 5 surveyor.
Before joining the Aquarium in 2012, Holly spent nearly 20 years at the New England Aquarium and 7.5 years as a DSO/Biologist with Massachusetts Marine Fisheries. She was the first female president of the Association of Diving Program Administrators (2020–2021).
A passionate educator and mentor, Holly continues to advance diver safety and marine conservation. She recently fulfilled her dream of diving in both the Arctic and Antarctic—officially becoming “bipolar.”
Join the Y-kiki Divers Speaker Series on July 9th by attending in person at the Chesterfield store around 6:30 PM or join virtually at 7:00 PM CST using the call-in details:
Please join my meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone:
Google Meet joining info
Video call link:
https://meet.google.com/ygi-przp-abs
Or dial: (US) +1 708-740-8569 PIN: 120 505 277#
More phone numbers:
https://tel.meet/ygi-przp-abs?pin=1304605093067
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