Activities & Events

Community Education

CAC researchers and staff visit local schools to bring research into the classroom.  By presenting lessons, judging science fairs, or leading workshops, researchers share their experiences and knowledge with local educators and students in a variety of ways.  Local teachers also participate in research with CAC personnel through the Research Experience for Teachers program and other opportunities.  High school students also participate in research with CAC researchers.  By interacting with the local community, researchers hope to pass on information about what they study and an appreciation for our local waters.

Partnering with the Shedd Aquarium

Recently, CAC researchers collaborated with the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago to develop a permanent Invasive Species Exhibit. Throughout exhibit development, Shedd staff consulted with CAC personnel to provide the latest research findings and to help craft the messages for the 1.8 million annual visitors to the Shedd Aquarium. The end result is an interactive exhibit featuring some of the Great Lake’s region more notorious invasive species, together with information about how those species arrived in the Great Lakes and what can be done to prevent future invasions.

Once per summer, CAC personnel also work with the Shedd Young Naturalist Program, a work-study program for Chicago youth by hosting a day of stream study and science career exploration at Notre Dame.  Several Center researchers have presented their research to Shedd staff and members as well.  The continuing collaboration between CAC and the Shedd Aquarium highlights the effectiveness of building partnerships to communicate research.