Originating in November 2001, The Friends of the Marine Science Center was organized by a group of like minded volunteers sharing the values that support the rescue, rehabilitation and release of sea turtles and shore birds that are treated at the Marine Science Center in Ponce Inlet, Fl. As a nonprofit, our team of volunteers are an integral part of meeting our mission, and we deeply value the passion and energy that each of our members brings to the Friends of the Marine Science Center.
​
The Friends of the Marine Science Center is a registered 501 C (3) non-profit group dedicated to assisting the Marine Science Center in fundraising to further their mission of sea turtle and shorebird rehabilitation, conservation medicine; and marine education.
​
All proceeds from our online, event and gift shop sales goes to further our mission. To date, this organization retains it's non-profit status and operates through the efforts of our dedicated volunteers.
Mary Hoffman, President
"It’s humbling and rewarding to work with everyone involved in this organization, the Board, the donors, the community, and our partners at MSC. I’m passionate about sharing my love, respect and the responsibility of protecting our coastal environment and marine life, and I am honored and excited to serve as President.” - Mary Hoffman
Mary Hoffman is a native Floridan and has embraced a love for “everything ocean” since childhood. She immediately gravitated to the Marine Science Center and The Friends of the Marine Science Center when moving to Ponce Inlet in 2008, and has served on the Friend's Board for several years. She continues to volunteer at the center where she loves to educate patrons on the Turtle Terrace.
