The College of the Florida Keys will continue its 2025 VIP Series with “Coral Restoration: Improvise, Adapt, and Overcome” on Thursday, February 20 at 7 p.m. in the Tennessee Williams Theatre on the Key West Campus. Mote Marine Laboratory scientist Dr. Jason Spadaro will discuss applying new technology, novel methods and materials, and classic ecological theory to the holistic restoration of Florida’s Coral Reef.

Dr. Spadaro’s research primarily focuses on the Florida Coral Reef, but extends to collaborative projects in the Caribbean, such as in Belize and Mexico, where he contributes to a multi-national, multi-institutional team. This team investigates a large native crab species and its significant potential in facilitating extensive coral reef restoration. His research is funded by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the Monroe County Tourism Development Council, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and Mote’s Protect Our Reefs grant program.

In its eleventh season, the College’s VIP Series features the views, ideas, and perspectives (VIP) of speakers of local, regional, and national prominence. CFK’s 2025 VIP Series is sponsored by Essential Net Solutions. Tickets for each event are $5 at the door. Admission is free for students at CFK and Monroe County schools. For more information, call CFK at 305-296-9081 or visit the College’s website at CFK.edu/VIP.