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PROTECT RESTORE
MAKE HISTORY ANNUAL REPORT 2019
The Florida Aquarium is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization whose mission is to entertain, educate and inspire stewardship of the natural environment. The Florida Aquarium is accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA).
MISSION Protect and Restore our Blue Planet.
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VISION
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Dear Friends, In the blockbuster Broadway musical, Hamilton, George Washington sings to Alexander Hamilton, I know that we can win / I know that greatness lies in you But remember from here on in / History has its eyes on you We are living in historic times. The responsibility to be a champion for our oceans and waterways has never been greater. It is up to us to be a leader in saving wild animals and wild places. In 2019, The Florida Aquarium challenged ourselves and our partners to believe that we could do great things together – and we did. We made history in 2019, both in our facility in downtown Tampa and our Center for Conservation in Apollo Beach. The Florida Aquarium recorded our best attendance since its grand opening 24 years ago. More than 840,000 people visited the Aquarium representing a 5 percent increase in visitation over the previous 12-month period. We offered new guest experiences, provided outstanding customer service and engaged more people than ever through our outreach and offsite programming, which allowed more than 1 million people to directly connect with the Aquarium. The year began by opening our second largest habitat, Heart of the Sea, in a fully reimagined Waves of Wonder Gallery. This was followed by Moon Bay, only the 4th moon jelly touch experience in the country. Conservation facilities expanded with the opening of the state-of-the-art Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center. This $4.1 million facility housed and released 11 sea turtles in 2019. Three-thousand healthy staghorn corals raised in Apollo Beach became part of The Florida Aquarium led, multi-agency effort of the largest genetically diverse coral introduction to the Florida Reef Tract in history. That would not be the last time we made coral history in 2019. We also became the first to successfully spawn Atlantic pillar coral in a laboratory. 2019 also saw accreditation by AZA’s Accreditation Commission. Less than 10 percent of animal facilities registered with the USDA have achieved AZA accreditation, so The Florida Aquarium is truly a leader in the profession. The greatness of these accomplishments lie in the women and men who work tirelessly to ensure that we make a brighter future for this planet. For their exceptional interest and participation in all aspects of the Aquarium’s operations, we extend special thanks to our Board of Directors. With this report, we know that history had its eye on 2019 and we look back with pride in our achievements and gratitude in our hearts to everyone who helped to make this amazing year possible, including dedicated friends and supporters of The Florida Aquarium like you. Thank you!
PROTECT. RESTORE. MAKE HISTORY. Roger W. Germann, Jr. Dan Borasch President/CEO Chair of the Board of Directors 3
WELCOME Welcome to Kimberly A. Bruce New Board Chair of The Florida Aquarium This past November, The Florida Aquarium’s Board of Directors unanimously approved Kimberly A. Bruce, as the organization’s new Board Chair at its annual meeting. She has served on the Aquarium’s Board of Directors since 2017 and was one of its first donors and members when it opened 24 years ago. During this time, she demonstrated her deep commitment to The Florida Aquarium’s mission and vision. Kim, Head of CIBC Bank for the West Florida Region, has nearly three decades of commercial banking experience. She was installed for her two-year term as the Aquarium’s Board Chair replacing Daniel Borasch, who has served on the Board since 2001, the last two years as Chair. The Aquarium will benefit from her passion, commitment and inspiring leadership during our time of historic growth. 2019 was an exceptional year and we are excited for the momentum to continue into the new decade as we make no little plans at The Florida Aquarium. 4
Officers Kimberly A. Bruce, Chair Lauren Fernandez, Treasurer K. Tyler Hill, Secretary Roger W. Germann, Jr., President Kimberly Casey, Vice President
FY20 Board of Directors Carmen Barkett Ted A. Beattie Matthew Blair Daniel Borasch, Immediate Past Chair Christopher Brandriff Douglas Brigman Charlotte Brittain Kimberly A. Bruce, Board Chair John Couris Lauren Fernandez Reginald Goins Felicia Harvey Tom Hernandez K. Tyler Hill Dale Hoffman Kyle M. Klement Craig Klingensmith Rita Lowman Douglas B. Montgomery Michael Nursey Larry R. Shannon, Ph.D. Lakshmi Shenoy James Weiss Andrea Gonzmart-Williams Stuart Williams A. Paul Anderson Honorable Jane Castor (Designee: Dennis Rogero) Santiago Corrada Honorable Janet Cruz Supt. Jeff Eakins (Designee: Larry Plank) Honorable Charlie Miranda Honorable Jackie Toledo Honorable Stacy White Al Oakes (FY20 Volunteer of the Year)
Foundation Board Members Douglas Montgomery, Chair Thomas Hall Beverly Birkitt Thomas DuPont James L. Ferman, Jr. John McMullen Kimberly Casey, Ex. Officio Trustees Richard Beard, III Jack Butcher William Crown, III Joseph Garcia Irene Guy David A. Kennedy Joe Lewkowicz Eugene McNichols Honorable Sandy Murman Dana Nafe R. James Robbins, Jr. Robert Sharp Cyrus Spurlino Sally Thompson Paul L. Whiting Senior Management Roger W. Germann, Jr., President and CEO Andrew J. Wood, Chief Operating Officer Kimberly Casey, Chief Financial Officer Kelly Curington, Senior Vice President of Human Resources Kari Goetz, Vice President of Marketing Debbi Stone, Vice President of Learning Grant Martin, Vice President of Development Timothy M. Binder, Senior Vice President of Animal Care and Health Debborah Luke, Ph.D., Senior Vice President of Conservation Pete Colangelo, Senior Director, Creative Services Carolyn Henika, Senior Director, Sales & Events Amber Whittle, Ph.D., Director of Conservation Aaron Johnson, Assistant Director of Operations Ron Pendergrass, Director of Engineering Sandra C. Morrison, Director of Communications Tim Stripling, Director of Marine Operations Tristin Ware, Director of Learning
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INSPIRING TOMORROW’S FUTURE BLUE PLANET LEADERS AND EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES The Florida Aquarium is a not-for-profit organization changing the way humanity cares for our Blue Planet. Through unparalleled exhibits, environmental stewardship-based education programs and hands-on field initiatives, we are creating a new community of hopeful conservationists, driven by our vision to protect and restore our Blue Planet. With the support of our donors, members and the hard work of our staff and volunteers, The Florida Aquarium accomplished so much in 2019 to benefit people, animals and our Blue Planet including several major milestones. Behind each of these milestones are the stories of the animals and individuals who were impacted. 6
Engaged
841,424 Guests 600
Planted propagules of black, red and white mangrove to protect Tampa’s shorelines from extreme weather events and provide important ecological support for the natural environment.
Reached
105,165
people through education programs on-site and through community outreach
Mobilized 972 volunteers who contributed
3,683 hours
of their time at the Aquarium and in conservation and cleanup projects.
16,020
Welcomed guests through the Sponsored Admissions program providing educational experiences for free or at a significantly reduced cost.
Ranked #2 aquarium in North America in USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards Celebrated the release of
150 rehabilitated animals
since 1995; released a total of 11 endangered sea turtles back to their ocean home since opening our Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center in Apollo Beach.
Removed
3,325 lbs.
of trash along Tampa Bay’s shoreline during our conservation and clean up initiatives with Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful and Keep Pinellas Beautiful.
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1 NEW EXHIBITS In 2019, 841,424 people experienced our exhibits and educational programs here in Tampa Bay. Guest satisfaction is and always will be a top goal at The Florida Aquarium – it is how we connect the public with wild animals and wild spaces. We are dedicated to our local community and we believe that all people should have access to the wonder of our natural world. And guests are noticing; our 2019 Annual Visitor Survey shows overall guest 8
satisfaction increased 2 percent YOY (90% vs. 88%) and is 9 percent above aquarium industry benchmark.
90% Guest Satisfaction
On Saturday, June 8, World Oceans Day, The Florida Aquarium celebrated the grand opening of the new interactive Moon Bay exhibit. This unique experience – to gently interact with jellies – is only the fourth of its kind in the United States. The exhibit inspires awe and admiration for moon jellies named for their translucent moonlike circular bells and opens guests’ eyes to what they truly are – a vital part of the ocean ecosystem and an important food source for sea turtles and other marine life.
#MoonBay
Heart of the Sea: Hundreds of animals, 100,000 gallons fill Florida Aquarium’s new exhibit
SPECIAL CONNECTION
Mesmerizing Moon Jellies Touch Experience Land on World Oceans Day
One of the year’s most celebrated and much anticipated events was the official grand opening of the Aquarium’s breathtaking and immersive Heart of the Sea exhibit. This fascinating exhibit is the main attraction in the enhanced Waves of Wonder Gallery. The Heart of the Sea habitat had been empty of animals for many years and this 2nd-largest exhibit now features more than 400 amazing animals in an expansive aquatic environment. Heart of the Sea also features a submerged platform where veterinary procedures and training sessions are performed. Guests enjoy a fascinating real-time glimpse into these and other activities which are rarely witnessed by the public, via dual 70-inch flat screen monitors. Those who experience Heart of the Sea leave with a deeper, more personal understanding of the Aquarium’s primary conservation focus upon coral, sharks and sea turtles−all of which are featured prominently.
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COMMUNITY
MAKING A DIFFERENCE LOCALLY AND BEYOND What began almost 25 years ago as a guest attraction with a budding conservation program has evolved into a conservation organization that operates a world-class Aquarium and makes historic scientific advancements in carrying out its vision to protect wild animals and restore wild spaces. The impact of The Florida Aquarium is felt throughout the Tampa Bay area, the state of Florida and the world. The Aquarium works cooperatively with other like-minded organizations
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on initiatives, events and projects designed to positively impact our local, national and global environment and the lives of the people and animals inhabiting it. Beach cleanups, green practices on site and support of community events such as Great American Cleanup, are only a few examples of the way the Aquarium and its staff endeavor to make a positive impact on the local community and environment.
Beach cleanups action days Throughout 2019, The Florida Aquarium partnered with Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful on several cleanups that raised awareness of the importance of our clean shores helps protect wildlife and keep our Blue Planet healthy, all while connecting with their community and having a little fun in the process. On Saturday, April 27, The Florida Aquarium put our spin on Earth Day and, in conjunction with Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful and The Keep America Beautiful Great American Cleanup, led the charge by cleaning up local shorelines and planting mangroves. To further protect our environment, The Florida Aquarium launched its Keep the Beads Out of the Bay promotion in early 2019. The eco-friendly initiative encouraged the community to hold on to their Gasparilla beads to protect the environment and recycle them at the Aquarium. Since launching, this bead-free green initiative, the Aquarium has seen the popularity of the campaign increase dramatically, but what is most encouraging is how the public has connected to the mission of protecting our natural environment.
IMPACT
Saving the Blue Planet from the Straw That Could Break It
Each year, approximately nine million tons of plastic contaminate the world’s precious oceans and that volume is expected to double by 2025. Discarded plastic straws are among the top 10 culprits, wreaking havoc on ocean animals and fragile ecosystems. That is why The Florida Aquarium led a dynamic, engaging Skip the Straw initiative to raise awareness about the ecological damage from discarded plastic straws and other single-use plastics. We challenged local businesses to remove plastic straws from their
facility and challenge someone else to do the same. Not only was the Skip the Straw Challenge a fun way to engage the public in a worthy call to action, but it proved to be highly effective in attracting influential government and corporate partnerships. Those accepting the challenge included That’s So Tampa, Bank OZK, Tampa International Airport, Sparkman Wharf, Bank of America and the Girl Scouts of West Central Florida. The Aquarium is proud to be a part of this impressive coalition in a campaign that benefits the entire Blue Planet. 11
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SEA TURTLE
RESCUE, REHAB, RELEASE, REPEAT
Working in close partnership with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), The Florida Aquarium’s Animal Response Team, supported by Florida Blue, kicked off 2019, with the grand opening of its $4.1 million Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center in Apollo Beach. In January, The Florida Aquarium opened its 19,000-square foot Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center in Apollo Beach. The center features five different rehabilitation pools, including one of the state’s deepest turtle-exclusive dive pools. Approximately 90 percent of sea turtles in the United States nest on Florida’s beaches and all are either threatened or endangered. Protecting them and ensuring their sustained well-being is, therefore, one of The Florida Aquarium’s top priorities. We rescue sea turtles from around Florida and beyond. But there is a growing need for more animal care facilities to rehabilitate them. The new Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center dramatically increases our capacity to save them from extinction and give them the care they need and deserve.
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90% of Sea Turtles in the U.S. are either threatened or endangered Pools inside the center range in size from 1,500 to 25,000-gallons and the 11-foot deep dive pool is ideally suited for assessing sea turtle buoyancy, swim conditioning and food trials before returning them to the wild. The center also includes a state-of-the-art sea turtle surgery suite. The Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center was made possible through a unique public-private partnership including The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, The Spurlino Foundation and others, The Florida Aquarium and TECO Energy’s generous land use agreement. The Florida Aquarium’s Animal Response Team, which manages sea turtle rescue, rehabilitation and release efforts, has also expanded thanks to a grant from Florida Blue.
Returning Sea Turtles to their Natural Habitat, Naming the star of the Aquarium’s Heart of Sea exhibit, establishing an important partnership The Florida Aquarium’s Animal Response Team was busy in 2019. The specialized team released its first four sea turtle patients in May and returned a total of 11 sea turtles to the ocean over the year. The release of these sea turtles was done with the direct support of FWC, who has authorized The Florida Aquarium to treat sick or injured endangered sea turtles. In March, The Florida Aquarium and Florida Blue sought the public’s help in choosing a name for the star of the Aquarium’s Heart of the Sea exhibit, a juvenile male loggerhead sea turtle that was unable to be returned to the wild due to an injury. Hillsborough County elementary school students suggested names and Floridians from across the state weighed in on their favorite.
PATIENT SPOTLIGHT
The Story of Jupiter
Jupiter, a loggerhead sea turtle, was one of the first patients to be admitted to the Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center on February 5, 2019. The turtle, stranded in Volusia County, was a victim of cold stunning. A sea turtle becomes “cold-stunned” when it is exposed to prolonged cold temperatures and becomes incapacitated and prone to infection. Over the following months our team worked hard to provide Jupiter the critical treatment needed, nursing the sea turtle back to health. Five-months later, on July 18, 2019, Jupiter was released back to the ocean in Volusia County. Jupiter’s amazing story demonstrates a sea turtle’s resilience and ability to recover with the right resources and treatment.
Loggerhead #263 became Shelldon
With thousands of votes cast, Loggerhead sea turtle #263 became Shelldon. The winning name was suggested by fifth graders in Michael Schmitt’s class at Kimbell Elementary School, who were invited to the Aquarium for a special meet-andgreet with the newly dubbed Shelldon.
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The Florida Aquarium leads imperative coral conservation work, both on land and in the field. A healthy Florida Reef Tract is key to maintaining a resilient Florida. Coral reefs protect Floridians and their homes and businesses from storms and flooding and dissipate 97 percent of wave energy that would otherwise erode our beautiful beaches. The imperiled reef stimulates the region’s economy, contributing at least $8.5 billion in tourism alone, while helping create more than 70,000 jobs. The planet’s coral reefs support more than 25 percent of marine life and provide ecosystem services valued over $100 billion, but they have declined at alarming rates due to climate change, disease outbreaks, pollution and other increasing stressors. In 2019, Aquarium scientists advanced critical efforts to understand and to address these challenges, focusing strongly on the unprecedented, deadly disease outbreak killing large, slow-growing corals on the Florida Reef Tract.
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CORAL CONSERVATION The Florida Aquarium is First in History to Spawn Atlantic Pillar Coral The Florida Aquarium achieved a global historic milestone, spawning endangered Atlantic pillar coral through lab-induced techniques, named Project Coral. The finger-like species have been unable to spawn successfully in its native environment on the Florida Reef Tract — where the coral die-off has been so severe, only about 2 percent of the reef is covered by living stony coral, down from a height of 50-60 percent in the 1960s.The scientific breakthrough occurred in the Aquariums’ research laboratory at its Center
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for Conservation in Apollo Beach, as part of the ongoing Project Coral initiative. The Aquarium’s coral scientists spent two years planning for this pivotal moment and months tweaking water temperatures and light exposures to make this breakthrough possible. The research team, led by Keri O’Neil, worked diligently and collaboratively with Horniman Museum and Gardens in London, England. Induced spawning, which can be controlled entirely in a lab where the corals are protected from harsh environments, is a
The Florida Aquarium spearheaded the largest genetically-diverse coral outplanting in Florida’s history. The unprecedented conservation mission was designed to help save the Florida Reef Tract, the world’s 3rd-largest coral barrier reef system, from extinction. The Florida Aquarium team members led the conservation mission in collaboration with the Coral Restoration Foundation, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, NOAA Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, Keys Marine Lab, The University of Florida, The University of Miami, Nova Southeastern University and others, releasing over 3,000 sexually-reproduced staghorn and 500 brain coral offspring back into the waters of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and adjacent in-water coral nurseries.
RECORD BREAKING
The Largest Genetically-Diverse Coral Outplanting in State History
The planet’s coral reefs support more than 25% of marine life
IN ACTION cutting-edge tool for production of endangered coral species to restore dying reefs anywhere. Thanks to The Florida Aquarium’s epic accomplishment, in conjunction with partner efforts, scientists believe that corals in the severely threatened Florida Reef Tract may ultimately be saved from extinction.
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INSPIRING YOUNG MINDS WITH THE BUILDING BLOCKS OF LEARNING The Florida Aquarium’s learning experiences enable students of all ages to discover the wonders of our Blue Planet in an immersive environment. The Sponsored Admissions program reached over 16,020 people in 2019, ensuring that diverse audiences, regardless of economic status, have the opportunity to participate in our unique educational experiences. We are able to provide this gift for our community thanks to private charitable donations from generous corporations, foundations and individuals. The Aquarium also serves as a resource for educators to help develop skills and share tools and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) learning with students. As a result of this important work, The Florida Aquarium is considered a national leader in STEM Education and workforce development.
Communicating The Florida Aquarium Research and Conservation Effort The Learning Team at the Aquarium continuously develops programming for the Carol J. and Barney Barnett Learning Center that focuses on the important work of the Aquarium is doing to protect and restore our Blue Planet. Through hands-on exploration of concepts relating to coral and sea turtles, in particular, students not only gain valuable STEM content knowledge but also a greater understanding of what the Aquarium is undertaking and how they can be part of the story. Most notably in 2019, a new program called Teens for Turtles, supported by the Sea Turtle Grants Program, challenged and empowered middle and high school students in our community to design and implement their own stewardship projects to benefit sea turtle conservation efforts.
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Summer AquaCamps The Aquarium had a record-breaking year for summer camps, reaching 1,175 children ages 3-18. More than 60 of these participants attended a week of camp at no cost, including free transportation, to ensure that barriers to participation did not prevent some of the most underrepresented youth in our community to be inspired by this transformative experience.
1,175 campers
Underrepresented Audiences in STEM Education After four successful years working with Hillsborough County Public Schools, National Geographic and a variety of community partners, to offer a three-day Mission: Tampa Bay robotics camp for girls, 2019 saw the first year of a weeklong summer camp to provide a deeper dive into this content. The Aquarium also hosted a free STEMtastic family event for Hillsborough County Public Schools, welcoming over 1,200 people to experience and celebrate STEM and the various careers of today and tomorrow.
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Through its leadership role in the Tampa Bay STEM Network, the Aquarium continues to grow its offerings to meet the needs of our community while also addressing the jobs of tomorrow that will be critical to protecting and restoring our wild spaces.
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ACCOMPLISHMENTS, RECOGNITIONS
A visit to The Florida Aquarium is a powerful experience, one that engages all of the senses and opens the mind to worlds not commonly part of our terrestrial experience. It starts with a drop of water that transforms as one moves through the Aquarium – creating a unique connection between guests and The Florida Aquarium. It is this human connection that inspires positive action on behalf of our Blue Planet.
The Florida Aquarium Earns Prestigious AZA Accreditation The Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) once again granted the rare distinction of accreditation to The Florida Aquarium. Fewer than 10 percent of animal facilities registered with the USDA achieve AZA accreditation. The prestigious achievement places The Florida Aquarium among the ‘best of the best’ facilities in terms of providing for the health and welfare of its animals. Only 263 of the more than 2,400 zoological institutions in the United States, are accredited by the AZA. The Aquarium received its first AZA accreditation in 1997 and has been accredited ever since. “AZA accreditation signifies The Florida Aquarium’s active role in protecting our world’s wild animals and wild places while providing exemplary animal care and meaningful guest experiences.” said AZA President and CEO Dan Ashe. 18
The Florida Aquarium among the ‘best of the best’
Tim Binder, Senior Vice President of Animal Care and Health, grew up in Rapid City, South Dakota, far from the oceanic world.
FORWARD THINKERS
Tim Binder, Visionary Conservation Leader
In high school, he worked at a roadside attraction on the road to Mount Rushmore. It was a small Aquarium with seals, sea lions and dolphins. That experience sparked his passion and led to a distinguished 40+ year career in animal care that continues to make an impact in the industry. In his early 20s, Tim joined the staff of the highly regarded Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut, where his skills earned him a senior leadership position.
The Aquarium Once Again Receives a Top USA Today 10Best Readers’ Ranking For the second consecutive year, The Florida Aquarium was nationally recognized by USA TODAY’S 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards as one of North America’s best aquariums. By popular vote, the Aquarium rose from third to second place after being selected in the Top 20 by a panel of experts. We are thankful for this recognition; it is important that our guests know that when they visit The Florida Aquarium, they are supporting STEM education, conservation research and wildlife rescue and rehabilitation. We are much more than a great attraction.
Tim then became one of the first people hired by the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, which, when it opened in 2005, was the largest Aquarium in the world. Among his biggest accomplishments was ensuring the welfare of the whale sharks as Georgia Aquarium is the only facility outside of Asia where you can see these animals.
In 2008, he left Georgia to consult on animal-care and welfare, traveling to Asia, Africa and Europe. A year later, he joined Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium to become Executive Vice President of Animal Care. Attracted by its vital conservation work, Tim joined The Florida Aquarium in 2018. As he explains, “The Florida Aquarium offers tremendous opportunities to have a direct impact on significant conservation issues in very unique and exciting ways.” With his outstanding leadership, depth of experience and strategic vision, Tim is one of the Aquarium’s most valued assets and it is a great honor to have him aboard.
“The Florida Aquarium offers tremendous opportunities to have a direct impact on significant conservation issues in very unique and exciting ways.”– Tim Binder
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7 PHILANTHROPY
OUR SUPPORTERS, OUR COMMUNITY Throughout 2019, The Florida Aquarium welcomed new animals, celebrated others, made scientific history and helped learners of all ages connect to the marine world and make a difference. All of our successes are thanks to generous support from our donors and members. With their support, The Florida Aquarium continues to be a leader in animal care, conservation research, sustainable practices, learning programs and community access. We appreciate and look forward to our continued partnership. 20
Fundraising events The Aquarium’s two major fundraising events – SeaGrapes and Brews by the Bay – turn the Aquarium into a unique event space all for a good cause. Guests of each event sample quality beverages and gourmet food samples at the Aquarium after hours. These events delight attendees while raising vital funds that support the Aquarium’s mission.
WE COULDN’T DO IT WITHOUT YOU!
Sip, Savor and Save Sea Life
Tampa Bay’s top philanthropic leaders, Aquarium enthusiasts and food and drink connoisseurs raised a glass for conservation on May 18th, for the 18th annual SeaGrapes Wine and Food event. Guests forewent the formality of the sit-down dinner to wander through The Florida Aquarium’s unforgettable vibrant exhibits, unwind with electrifying live music from The Black Honkeys, Fretless Rock and an appealing blend of Pop and Jazz music by Alan Darcy. This annual signature fundraiser event was sponsored by Amalie Motor Oil. What makes this annual event unique is the direct action programs it supports. Proceeds directly contribute to ocean conservation and education efforts, including The Florida Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center in Apollo Beach.
Beer for a Blue Planet The 11th annual Brews By The Bay was a sold-out event thanks to the support of our guests who want to make a difference in support of our Blue Planet. This event was overflowing with entertainment from #NoFilter, Orquesta Infinidad, Frankie Raye and a Silent Disco on our rooftop. Sip and Salsa with Orquesta Infinidad, the best authentic Latin band, based in Tampa’s historic Ybor City. The Aquarium also launched its fourth collaboration brew, Best Dressed Bird, with Coppertail Brewing at this unforgettable night. Brews By The Bay, made possible thanks to generous sponsorship from Pepin Distributing Company and Aramark, featured more than 100 different beers and culinary tastings from 35 Tampa restaurants.
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FINANCIAL OVERVIEW 2019 AT A GLANCE •
841,424 annual visitors
• S econd
highest year in annual attendance
• M ore than 1,000,000 touch points • R anked
#2 aquarium in the U.S. in USA
TODAY’S Readers’ Choice Awards
• Education groups visiting the Aquarium totaled
82,477– an increase of 4% over last year
• 2 2,692
guests reached through offsite community outreach programs/engagement
• R ecord 1,175
summer camp participants, an increase of 6% over last year
• 1 6,020 in Sponsored Admissions for
underserved audiences (e.g., Head Start, Title 1 Schools, Community Organizations)
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• 11
endangered sea turtles released back into the ocean after being rehabilitated at the new $4.1M Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center
• 1,120,372 website visits • Engaged 1,602 volunteers, who contributed
55,004 hours of their time in 2019 – a value of $1.3 million
2019
2019
In 2019, The Florida Aquarium enjoyed another year of strong attendance, with 841,424 guests, a five percent increase compared to 2018. We’ll let the numbers here speak for themselves.
FY2019
FY2018
$13,745,236
$12,432,304
Memberships
$1,634,859
$1,305,149
Contributions
$2,089,158
$1,870,984
Restaurant and Gift Shop
$6,849,619
$6,177,879
$694,868
$653,943
$1,980,398
$2,123,658
$26,994,138
$24,563,917
$7,434,285
$6,799,090
$5,160,528
$4,533,237
Learning
$1,892,024
$1,746,798
Marketing
$2,438,449
$2,072,498
Administration
$2,608,301
$2,483,444
$980,644
$1,045,162
Restaurant and Gift Shop
$4,691,621
$4,175,295
Total Operating Expenses
$25,205,852
$22,855,524
Net Operating Income
$1,788,286
$1,708,393
7%
3%
Admissions
Total Operating Revenue
25%
51%
Parking Other Turnstile
8%
Total Operating Revenue
2019 6%
Guest Services and Facility Maintenance
19%
2018
29%
Total Operating Expenses
4% 10%
10%
20% 8%
Balances do not include 2018 Non-Operating Activity, including:
Animal Care, Health and Conservation
2018
Development and Membership
Depreciation • Capital Contributions •
Interest Income/Expense • Unrealized Gain/Loss on Investments •
2019 Attendance
841,424 2018 Attendance
800,027
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701 Channelside Drive | Tampa FL 33602