National Geographic Explorers Hub coming to FIU

The official Florida National Geographic Explorers Hub has been established and is planning events at FIU this spring. 

Hub explorers will host a table in the Graham Center Pit during FIU’s celebration of the United Nations International Day of Girls and Women in Science from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Feb. 11. The event is being organized by the Center for Women’s and Gender Studies and Office of the Provost and FIU scientists will also be participating to share their research, experiences and ways other women can be successful in STEM careers (science, technology, engineering and math).

Florida is home to one of the largest populations of National Geographic Explorers in the United States, second only to California. More than 150 of the scientists, conservationists, educators and storytellers who have received support from the National Geographic Explorers program currently reside in the Sunshine State including Mireya Mayor who spearheaded the establishment of the Florida hub. Mayor is the director of the Exploration and Science Communication Initiative in FIU’s College of Arts, Sciences & Education.

“National Geographic Explorers are infinitely curious about our planet and passionate about inspiring others, as well as helping make it better,” Mayor said. “Because Florida is home to so many explorers and is at the forefront of environmental change and impact, it only makes sense to establish a formal hub here.”

The National Geographic Society uses the power of science, exploration, education and storytelling to illuminate and protect the wonder of our world. In light of this mission, the Florida National Geographic Explorers Hub will organize activities throughout the state including citizen science meet-ups, education activities, workshops, training and more. The events will engage the National Geographic explorer community to share ideas, skills, solve problems and catalyze action as well as engage the local community tied to National Geographic initiatives.

The hub is also planning an event at FIU later in the spring to highlight pertinent wildlife and environmental issues where students and the local community will have the opportunity to meet the explorers and learn about their work. The National Geographic Explorers program provides grants for scientists, conservationists, educators and storytellers to support their work while also providing tools to help them develop as communicators and leaders. 

Mayor will lead the hub along with Explorers Maria Fadiman, Nareerat Boonchai, Elizabeth Lindsay, Thomas Culhane, Jennifer Adler, Gabby Salazar and FIU alumna Jennifer Gil, who earned a master’s degree in environmental studies from in 2018.