Press Releases

NANTUCKET, MA— The Nantucket Maria Mitchell Association (MMA) welcomes Dr. Elizabeth (Betsy) Sherman, MMA’s Marine Senior Science Advisor, for a discussion on what the most recent data from the MMA’s harbor monitoring buoy tells us about the health of Nantucket Harbor and the biodiversity we are working to protect. This event is free and will be held via Zoom on Wednesday, January 21 from 7 – 8:30pm. During the presentation, Sherman will share update highlights on what high-frequency buoy data reveals: short-lived events; repeated excursions beyond biological thresholds; and the sequencing of changes across oxygen, temperature, pH, chlorophyll, salinity, and nitrate—patterns that are often invisible in grab samples collected days or weeks apart. She will also summarize progress on cross-platform integration – enabling buoy data to be compared with other local monitoring efforts and used to flag conditions that warrant closer attention and guide future questions. Dr. Elizabeth (Betsy) Sherman is Senior Marine Science Advisor at the Maria Mitchell Association (MMA), a role she assumed in summer 2025. In this position, she has shaped the MMA’s Nantucket Harbor buoy program into a rigorous, decision-relevant monitoring effort focused on harbor biodiversity. She established verification procedures for continuous sensor measurements, cross-checked buoy data with other regional monitoring records, and strengthened data collaboration with partner organizations. She also advises on program design and provides public outreach talks that translate sensor records into ecological meaning. Dr. Sherman’s work leverages continuous buoy data to address ecological questions that grab sampling rarely resolves, including how often conditions cross biologically meaningful thresholds, how short-lived events accumulate, and how multiple stressors interact across temperature, oxygen, pH, and nutrients. Her analyses have identified recurring temperature patterns consistent with sublethal stress, clarified nitrate dynamics in collaboration with Nantucket’s Natural Resources Department, and kept pH research focused on impacts to eelgrass, bay scallops, and the broader harbor community. Dr. Sherman is Professor Emerita of Biology at Bennington College, where she spent more than four decades teaching and conducting research. Her scholarship focused on environmental physiology, evolution, and behavior in freshwater and marine systems, with a long-standing emphasis on coral reef biology. Her peer-reviewed publications span thermal tolerance and climate stress, amphibian physiology and disease, and coral reef dynamics. She also held a long-term appointment as a Visiting Scientist with the Cayman Islands Department of Environment and founded several field-based learning programs, including the Bennington College Coral Reef Project. She earned a B.A. in Biology, High Distinction, from the University of Rochester; a Ph.D. in Zoology, High Distinction, from the University of Vermont; and completed postdoctoral research in Neurobiology and Behavior at Cornell University. A central theme throughout her career has been strengthening public understanding of science and its role in civic life through education consulting and extensive public speaking across New England. Her work has been supported by numerous awards and grants, including multiple grants from the National Science Foundation. This event will be held via Zoom. Pre-registration is required. To register for the free, virtual event, use the registration link: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_JYOohlUpRkG-WQBDmIQ6QQ The Science Speaker Series is generously sponsored by the Maria Mitchell Association’s lead sponsor, Bank of America. The Maria Mitchell Association was founded in 1902 to preserve the legacy of Nantucket native astronomer, naturalist, librarian, and educator, Maria Mitchell. After she discovered a comet in 1847, Mitchell’s international fame led to many achievements and awards, including an appointment as the first professor of astronomy at Vassar College. Maria Mitchell believed in “learning by doing” and today that philosophy is reflected in the MMA’s mission statement, programs, research projects, and other activities. The Maria Mitchell Association operates two observatories, a natural science museum, an aquarium, a research center, and preserves the historic birthplace of Maria Mitchell. A wide variety of science and history-related programming is offered throughout the year for people of all ages. ###

NANTUCKET, MA—The Maria Mitchell Association (MMA) is pleased to announce two significant milestones in its ongoing Capital Campaign: the acquisition of three properties adjacent to its historic campus, and the appointment of Workshop/APD as the architectural firm leading the design of its future facilities. After more than two years of discussion and planning, the MMA has acquired the Noyes family property, which includes 27 and 25R Washington Street and 10 Coffin Street, for $2.5 million. This acquisition secures critical land and housing that will play a vital role in advancing the Association’s long-term campus plan and mission-driven growth. “This is a game-changing moment for the Maria Mitchell Association and for Nantucket,” said Joanna Roche, Executive Director, Maria Mitchell Association. “The acquisition allows us to thoughtfully expand our campus while deepening our ability to serve the community through science, history, and education.” The acquisition also carries deep historical significance. The Noyes family’s relationship with the Maria Mitchell Association dates to the 1980s, when Robert Noyes served as President of the Board and volunteered extensively on behalf of the organization. The partnership represents a meaningful legacy and a full-circle moment for both the family and the Association. In addition, the Maria Mitchell Association has selected Andrew Kotchen, Michael Luft-Weissberg and the Workshop/APD team to serve as architects for the project. Workshop/APD is a nationally recognized architecture firm with more than 25 years of experience working on Nantucket. Known for its thoughtful, context-sensitive design, the firm brings a deep understanding of the island’s architectural heritage and environmental landscape. “I am truly excited to create this lasting legacy to Maria Mitchell and to this community,” said Andrew Kotchen, founding principal of Workshop/APD. “This project offers a unique opportunity to provide a view into the nature and science of this island while honoring its history and sense of place.” With the property acquisition complete and Workshop/APD in place, the Maria Mitchell Association is prepared to advance into the next phase of the project. Engineering will be led by Nantucket Surveyors, construction oversight by Board Vice President John Wise, and architectural design by Workshop/APD. Over the coming months, the MMA will finalize campus plans incorporating the newly acquired properties, complete updated surveys, and begin the permitting process. Any design renderings of the Aquarium & Discovery Center are conceptual and remain subject to Town approval for any use of Town property; there is no agreement with the Town for use of the Town parking lot on Washington Street. For more information about the Capital Campaign and the future of the Maria Mitchell Association, visit www.mariamitchell.org . Founded in 1902, the Maria Mitchell Association is dedicated to the legacy of astronomer Maria Mitchell through education, research, and preservation in astronomy, natural sciences, and history. The Association’s programs serve thousands of learners annually and inspire curiosity, scientific inquiry, and stewardship of Nantucket’s unique environment. ###

NANTUCKET, MA—The Nantucket Maria Mitchell Association (MMA) welcomes Darren Humphreys, founder and CEO of Travel Sommelier, and Dr. Jackie Milingo, MMA’s Director of Astronomy, for a captivating discussion on the upcoming total solar eclipses in Spain (2026) and Egypt (2027). Learn how Travel Sommelier and the MMA are collaborating to craft unique, curated astro-travel experiences for travelers eager to witness these extraordinary celestial events. This event is free and will be held via Zoom on Wednesday, November 19 from 7 – 8:30pm. During the presentation, Humphreys will share how Travel Sommelier is designing seamless, one-of-a-kind eclipse travel experiences, crafted with precision, passion, and purpose. These itineraries include a week-long journey in northern Spain (2026) featuring Barcelona’s culinary delights and Menorca’s wellness offerings, as well as a trip along Egypt’s Nile River (2027), exploring ancient temples and the storied landscapes of one of the world’s most historic civilizations. The MMA will collaborate on these exclusive trips by providing the guidance and insights of its professional astronomers to enhance the experience and offer expert insights on the celestial events, giving participants an insider’s view of these extraordinary astronomical phenomena. This presentation offers a unique opportunity for travelers, astronomy enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the intersections of culture, history, and the cosmos to learn about once-in-a-lifetime adventures to witness these extraordinary solar eclipses. Darren Humphreys, after a successful career on Wall Street, followed his true calling and founded Travel Sommelier, fueled by a deep-rooted wanderlust and a desire to share the power of meaningful travel. Humphreys strongly believes in having fun along the way and finds gratitude in finding close friendships among his trusted partners and curious clients. Humphreys has explored over ninety countries across every continent and continues to find magic in every destination—immersing himself in new cultures, complex histories, and unforgettable culinary and wine experiences. From introducing travelers to his native South Africa to uncovering hidden gems around the globe, he invites you to see the world through a richer, more personal lens. Dr. Jackie Milingo is an observational astronomer who earned B.S. degrees in Physics and Astronomy from the University of Kansas, and a Ph.D. in Astrophysics from the University of Oklahoma. Her research is currently focused on understanding magnetic activity cycles in sun-like stars through long-term studies of star spots. Dr. Milingo joins the MMA after a year-long AAAS Science and Technology Policy Fellowship at the U.S. National Science Foundation, where she was a Fellow in the Office of Legislative and Public Affairs, as well as the Astronomy Division in the Math and Physical Sciences Directorate. Before her fellowship, she was a professor in the Physics Department at Gettysburg College for over twenty years where her work included mentoring undergraduate research students. Dr. Milingo joined the staff of the MMA in early September after a year-long, worldwide search for a new astronomer. She becomes the eighth MMA Astronomer and Director of the Astronomy Department of the MMA since Margaret Harwood, the MMA’s first astronomer, served from 1916 to 1957. Dr. Milingo has spent her career committed to generating transformative experiential learning opportunities, contributing to public education and outreach, removing barriers for students, and changing the conversation and learning spaces in astronomy, physics, and STEM in general. This event will be held via Zoom. Pre-registration is required. To register for the free, virtual event, use the registration link below: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_iBdtLfUQRQuPH_Ytbh9u-Q#/registration The Science Speaker Series is generously sponsored by the Maria Mitchell Association’s lead sponsor, Bank of America. The Maria Mitchell Association was founded in 1902 to preserve the legacy of Nantucket native astronomer, naturalist, librarian, and educator, Maria Mitchell. After she discovered a comet in 1847, Mitchell’s international fame led to many achievements and awards, including an appointment as the first professor of astronomy at Vassar College. Maria Mitchell believed in “learning by doing” and today that philosophy is reflected in the MMA’s mission statement, programs, research projects, and other activities. The Maria Mitchell Association operates two observatories, a natural science museum, an aquarium, a research center, and preserves the historic birthplace of Maria Mitchell. A wide variety of science and history-related programming is offered throughout the year for people of all ages. ###

NANTUCKET, MA— —The Nantucket Maria Mitchell Association (MMA) announces that it will host its new Director of Astronomy, Jackie Mlingo, PhD., as a featured presenter for its October Science Speaker Series. The presentation will take place on Wednesday, October 15 at 7pm in person at the MMA Research Center, 2 Vestal Street, and via Zoom. The event is FREE to all. Have you ever noticed the dark spots that sometimes appear on the Sun’s surface? These “sunspots” are just one example of star spots—mysterious patches that appear on stars across the galaxy. Far from being simple blemishes, star spots reveal the powerful magnetic forces at work inside stars, forces that also drive solar storms and shape the space weather that can impact entire planetary systems. In this talk, Dr. Milingo will share her research on star spots and how she uses them as a window into teaching undergraduates the process of scientific discovery. She will also explore how science can reach far beyond the classroom—bringing STEM into everyday spaces and sparking curiosity across communities, from kindergartners to lifelong learners. Dr. Jackie Milingo is an observational astronomer who earned B.S. degrees in Physics and Astronomy from the University of Kansas, and a Ph.D. in Astrophysics from the University of Oklahoma. Her research is currently focused on understanding magnetic activity cycles in sun-like stars through long-term studies of starpots. Dr. Milingo joins the MMA after a year-long AAAS Science and Technology Policy Fellowship at the U.S. National Science Foundation, where she was a Fellow in the Office of Legislative and Public Affairs, as well as the Astronomy Division in the Math and Physical Sciences Directorate. Before her fellowship, she was a professor in the Physics Department at Gettysburg College for over twenty years where her work included mentoring undergraduate research students. Dr. Milingo joined the staff of the MMA in early September after a year-long, worldwide search for a new astronomer. She becomes the eighth MMA Astronomer and Director of the Astronomy Department of the MMA since Margaret Harwood, the MMA’s first astronomer, served from 1916 to 1957. Dr. Milingo has spent her career committed to generating transformative experiential learning opportunities, contributing to public education and outreach, removing barriers for students, and changing the conversation and learning spaces in astronomy, physics, and STEM in general. This event will be held both in person and via Zoom. Pre-registration is required to attend either option. To register for the free, in-person event, use the registration link below: https://112458a.blackbaudhosting.com/112458a/October-Science-Speaker-Series--Dr-Jackie-Milingo To register for the free, Zoom option, use the registration link below: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_5q4kXF2rRHi8iWbFPkLN5w The Science Speaker Series is generously sponsored by the Maria Mitchell Association’s lead sponsor, Bank of America The Maria Mitchell Association was founded in 1902 to preserve the legacy of Nantucket native astronomer, naturalist, librarian, and educator, Maria Mitchell. After she discovered a comet in 1847, Mitchell’s international fame led to many achievements and awards, including an appointment as the first professor of astronomy at Vassar College. Maria Mitchell believed in “learning by doing” and today that philosophy is reflected in the MMA’s mission statement, programs, research projects, and other activities. The Maria Mitchell Association operates two observatories, a natural science museum, an aquarium, a research center, and preserves the historic birthplace of Maria Mitchell. A wide variety of science and history-related programming is offered throughout the year for people of all ages. ###

NANTUCKET, MA— The Nantucket Maria Mitchell Association (MMA) announces that its annual Aquarium Release Day will take place on Saturday, October 11, 2025 from 10am - 12pm at the MMA Aquarium at 32 Washington Street. A sensory-friendly half hour will be offered from 9:30 – 1oam. Join MMA staff for refreshments and tie-dying as you help the staff release this season’s Aquarium inhabitants back into the ocean. This event is FREE to the public and a great opportunity to learn and celebrate the marine life that lives in the waters of Nantucket Island. The MMA Aquarium is dedicated to educating the public on the importance of biodiversity in our unique marine ecosystems found here on Nantucket. Each summer, the MMA Aquarium Manager, Christina Norman, as well as her team of dedicated college interns and volunteers, explore the shores of Nantucket and find and document an assortment of over 7,500 individual marine animals, most of which are recorded and released. They snorkel, seine, and beachcomb to collect over 300 different marine animals. These animals are studied and cared for so that the MMA can help people to learn more about these important marine organisms while they are featured at the popular Washington Street Aquarium throughout the season. These marine animals represent roughly seventy different species collected by the MMA staff in tandem with local fishermen.  Pre-registration is encouraged. Register at the link below: https://112458a.blackbaudhosting.com/112458a/2025-Aquarium-Release-Day The Maria Mitchell Association was founded in 1902 to preserve the legacy of Nantucket native astronomer, naturalist, librarian, and educator, Maria Mitchell. After she discovered a comet in 1847, Mitchell’s international fame led to many achievements and awards, including an appointment as the first professor of astronomy at Vassar College. Maria Mitchell believed in “learning by doing” and today that philosophy is reflected in the MMA’s mission statement, programs, research projects, and other activities. The Maria Mitchell Association operates two observatories, a natural science museum, an aquarium, a research center, and preserves the historic birthplace of Maria Mitchell. A wide variety of science and history-related programming is offered throughout the year for people of all ages. ###

NANTUCKET, MA— The Nantucket Maria Mitchell Association (MMA) is pleased to announce the launch of its 2025 Scalloping Field Trip Program, set to begin October 1. This hands-on, educational experience invites participants to explore the island’s coastal waters alongside MMA Aquarium Manager Christina Norman, while learning about the ecology and conservation of Nantucket’s iconic bay scallops. Participants will head into the water to collect scallops while learning about their biology, life cycle, and the challenges bay scallops face in today’s changing environment. Hand nets and adult waders will be provided. A shellfish permit is not required to participate—unless attendees wish to take their catch home. Scalloping Field Trips meet at one of multiple locations in Nantucket Harbor to account for changing scallop availability. Registrants will be notified of the exact location via email before the day of the program. Personal transport to and from the meeting location is required to participate. Dates: October 1, 4, 5, 8, 10, 12, 15, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26, 29.; November 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 12, 15, 16, 19.  Cost per Participant: $50 Pre-registration is required for this event and closes two hours before the start time of the program. Registration Link: https://112458a.blackbaudhosting.com/112458a/Scalloping-Field-Trip-01Oct2025 For more information on obtaining an individual shellfish permit, visit the Town of Nantucket website: https://www.nantucket-ma.gov/2304/Shellfish-Permit The Science Speaker Series is generously sponsored by the Maria Mitchell Association’s lead sponsor, Bank of America. The Maria Mitchell Association was founded in 1902 to preserve the legacy of Nantucket native astronomer, naturalist, librarian, and educator, Maria Mitchell. After she discovered a comet in 1847, Mitchell’s international fame led to many achievements and awards, including an appointment as the first professor of astronomy at Vassar College. Maria Mitchell believed in “learning by doing” and today that philosophy is reflected in the MMA’s mission statement, programs, research projects, and other activities. The Maria Mitchell Association operates two observatories, a natural science museum, an aquarium, a research center, and preserves the historic birthplace of Maria Mitchell. A wide variety of science and history-related programming is offered throughout the year for people of all ages. ###

NANTUCKET, MA— The Nantucket Maria Mitchell Association (MMA), announces that it will host James Currie as a featured presenter for its September Science Speaker Series. The presentation will take place on Wednesday, September 10 at 7pm via Zoom. The event is free to all. James Currie will present an engaging discussion, “The Last of the Big Tuskers,” focused on African “super tusker” elephants. In the early 1970s, there were estimated to be 1.2 million elephants in Africa. Today, there are approximately 350,000 to 400,000. Even more alarming, is the fact that we are losing Africa’s super tuskers (those elephants with at least one tusk weighing 100 pounds or more) at an astounding rate. Today, only about twenty remain. At the same time, entire elephant populations are increasingly becoming completely tuskless, a sort of human-induced evolution that is being fueled by the insatiable demand for ivory. Currie produced the multiple award-winning documentary on elephants “ Last of the Big Tuskers “ – filmed in part in 2018 at Great Plains’ ol Donyo Lodge set in Kenya’s Chyulu Hills. This fascinating presentation will give you insights into the immediate need to protect these giants of Africa through some intriguing conservation techniques. Currie is a South African–born wildlife expert, elephant specialist, and Head of Sales & New Development for the Americas at Great Plains Conservation. A life-long conservationist, he is best known as host of “Nikon’s Birding Adventures” (ten seasons on Discovery/NBC), “A Wild Connection,” and the award-winning documentary “Last of the Big Tuskers.” He has also hosted National Geographic’s “Aerial Assassins,” appeared in “Twitchers,” and created two National Geographic video lecture series on birding and African safaris. He has led wildlife and birding tours across the globe for more than twenty years and is a highly sought-after speaker, having presented at the Explorers Club in New York, the National Audubon headquarters, and international travel conferences. He is the author of When Eagles Roar and has contributed to major media outlets including, The Wall Street Journal and “Martha Stewart Radio.” In addition to his media and guiding career, Currie holds a Master’s in Sustainable Environmental Management and has worked extensively to connect conservation with local community development in Africa. Originally from South Africa, he now lives in West Palm Beach, Florida, with his wife and three children. This event is free and will be held via Zoom only. Pre-registration is required to attend: To register for Zoom, use the registration link below: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_JAX95jRiR3qgovk7f2FKZQ?_ics=1755871368435&irclickid=~90VKGwndgafhimciklryofgnf8ab847261YXYNONIzohdc~2XROF&_gl=1*18q649z*_gcl_au*MTA5NjI5NDkxOS4xNzU1MjY5NjI5*_ga*MTQ0MjQ3MjM5LjE3Mzc1NzY0Nzk.*_ga_L8TBF28DDX*czE3NTU4NzEzNjgkbzE4JGcwJHQxNzU1ODcxMzY5JGo1OSRsMCRoMA..#/registration The Science Speaker Series is generously sponsored by the Maria Mitchell Association’s lead sponsor, Bank of America. The Maria Mitchell Association was founded in 1902 to preserve the legacy of Nantucket native astronomer, naturalist, librarian, and educator, Maria Mitchell. After she discovered a comet in 1847, Mitchell’s international fame led to many achievements and awards, including an appointment as the first professor of astronomy at Vassar College. Maria Mitchell believed in “learning by doing” and today that philosophy is reflected in the MMA’s mission statement, programs, research projects, and other activities. The Maria Mitchell Association operates two observatories, a natural science museum, an aquarium, a research center, and preserves the historic birthplace of Maria Mitchell. A wide variety of science and history-related programming is offered throughout the year for people of all ages. ###

NANTUCKET, MA— The Nantucket Maria Mitchell Association (MMA), in collaboration with Nantucket Lights , announces that it will host James Lowenthal, PhD, the Mary Elizabeth Moses Professor of Astronomy at Smith College, as a featured presenter for its August Science Speaker Series. The presentation, “The Magic of the Night... and How We Can Save It,” will take place on Wednesday, August 20 at 7pm in person at 33 Washington Street and via Zoom. The event is free to all. Do you love seeing the Milky Way from Nantucket? Do you enjoy Nantucket's beautiful gardens by day? The naturally dark night is one of Nature's greatest gifts. Humans and all other life on Earth evolved to depend on bright days and dark nights, and for thousands of generations, humans have turned to the night sky for inspiration, connection to our ancestors and culture, religion, science, and awe. Pollinators, migrating birds, marine life and plants all need natural darkness at night to thrive. Join Smith College Professor of Astronomy, James Lowenthal, on an illustrated tour of the magic of the night and learn how, together, we can preserve that night magic by taming the growing threat of light pollution -- a global problem with a local solution. James Lowenthal is the Mary Elizabeth Moses Professor of Astronomy at Smith College in Northampton, Massachusetts. He received his BS in Physics and Astronomy from Yale and his PhD in Astronomy from the University of Arizona. He studies the formation and evolution of galaxies, especially actively star-forming galaxies. He leads the local advocacy group Northampton City Lights and the Massachusetts chapter of DarkSky International; chairs the Light Pollution Sub-Committee of the American Astronomical Society’s Committee for the Protection of Astronomy and the Space Environment; and is President of the International Astronomical Union's Commission on Site Protection (i.e., light pollution). He spends as much time outdoors under the night sky as he can. This event will be held both in person and via Zoom. Pre-registration is required to attend either option. To register for the in-person event, use the registration link below: https://112458a.blackbaudhosting.com/112458a/August-Science-Speaker-Series---Nantucket-Lights To register for Zoom, use the registration link below: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Hbm6LI9HQ6CcAs9PHPId1A The Science Speaker Series is generously sponsored by the Maria Mitchell Association’s lead sponsor, Bank of America. Nantucket Lights, founded in 2021, is a nonprofit, all volunteer citizen advocacy group exclusively dedicated to preserving and protecting Nantucket’s nighttime environment and heritage of dark skies by raising awareness about light pollution on the island and advocating for environmentally responsible outdoor lighting. The Maria Mitchell Association was founded in 1902 to preserve the legacy of Nantucket native astronomer, naturalist, librarian, and educator, Maria Mitchell. After she discovered a comet in 1847, Mitchell’s international fame led to many achievements and awards, including an appointment as the first professor of astronomy at Vassar College. Maria Mitchell believed in “learning by doing” and today that philosophy is reflected in the MMA’s mission statement, programs, research projects, and other activities. The Maria Mitchell Association operates two observatories, a natural science museum, an aquarium, a research center, and preserves the historic birthplace of Maria Mitchell. A wide variety of science and history-related programming is offered throughout the year for people of all ages. ###