Research and Outreach Coordinator
Abby Hendershot
Abby organizes outreach events and develops partnerships that engage the Southwest Florida community in marine conservation.
She also coordinates and leads the research operations that will allow us to study the long term impacts of vertical oyster gardens on improving the local ecosystems.
More About Abby
Bio Section
Abby Hendershot, a Columbus, Ohio native, discovered her passion for the ocean during family vacations to Sanibel Island. Her love for the ocean grew as she continued to learn about the animals and plants that inhabited her favorite place.
In 2023, Abby graduated from Florida Gulf Coast University with a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies with a concentration in Environmental Education. In college, she conducted research on the eastern oyster and played a key role in leading an oyster monitoring program at the university’s new Water School. This program focused on monitoring the health of natural oyster reefs in Estero Bay by analyzing water quality, spat settlement, oyster morphometrics, and biodiversity. Abby has presented research at the Benthic Ecology Meeting in both 2022 and 2023.
Abby is dedicated to connecting communities with their local environments through scientific and conservation initiatives. She is passionate about promoting experiential learning and citizen science, believing that education fosters a deep appreciation and commitment to environmental stewardship.
In her free time, Abby enjoys exploring new places and the nature around her. She often spends her time outdoors birding, shelling, and practicing her photography skills.
In her words...
Why did you join OBC?
I was drawn to the mission-based action that OBC has been taking to combat water quality issues. With my background in oyster research, I was especially interested in conducting research on the impact of the VOGs on water quality.
What do you love most about what OBC is doing?
I love the many ways that OBC engages a broad audience in marine conservation. The opportunity to connect with so many groups that have different backgrounds is something I enjoy.
How can OBC change the world?
The energy and inspiration that prompted the creation of OBC is something that can be passed on to people around the world. This will create a lasting impact and encourage many others to protect their local ecosystems.
What's your favorite quote?
"In the end we will conserve only what we love; we will love only what we understand; and we will understand only what we are taught."
- Baba Dioum