Page 12 - Salesianum - Distinguished Gentleman - Summer 2020

NEWS FROM 18TH & BROOM
CHASING CORAL AT 18TH AND BROOM
Pope Francis
Salesianum continues to find unique, innovative ways
to educate young men and engage them in the world that surrounds them, every
day. The latest initiative? Growing a coral reef at 18th and Broom!
The project is a result of Dr. Jennifer Anthony’s Aquatic & Marine Biology class watching the acclaimed Netflix original documentary Chasing Coral. The film uses time- lapse photography to capture the phenomenon of coral bleaching
due to a rise in ocean temperatures. After the video, a passionate discussion occurred that focused on the fact that 1/3 of the world’s coral reefs have bleached beyond repair and that, if nothing changes, corals would likely become extinct during the lifetime of the students’ children.
The discussion quickly turned to “What can we do?” One group of students suggested creating a coral reef at Salesianum. The students believed that a reef on campus would allow students, families and employees to not only see and experience a coral reef’s beauty, but also appreciate the delicate balance of the organisms present
and become educated on the destruction and preservation of this vital ecosystem. This idea prompted Matthew Myer ’19 to conduct research and approach Armco Aquatics in Wilmington for help.
As a direct result of Armco Aquatics’ generosity and Dr. Anthony’s
Matthew Myer ’19
enthusiastic support, Salesianum students will have the incredible opportunity to analyze and help manage the delicate, complicated balance of aquatic ecosystems while witnessing their direct relationship to the greater environment. The tank will serve as a basis for a multitude
10 DISTINGUISHED GENTLEMAN | Summer 2020