This was the latest iteration of a class offered at Catawba every other year for over a decade. The trip highlighted learning about coral reef conservation from Reef Renewal Bonaire and a rare chance to dive in an enormous school of fish called a bait ball.
The “Bonaire class,” as it has come to be known, is distinctive enough to influence some students’ decisions to enroll at Catawba College. Senior Larkin Garden commented, “The Bonaire trip is one of the reasons I chose to attend Catawba. Very few schools offer an experience like this where students not only travel to amazing ecosystems on land and underwater but also gain diving experience and qualifications that will last a lifetime.”
Dr. Connie Lowery, a marine biologist specializing in coral physiology, was the lead instructor for the class and trip. She noted, “Most people have a mental image of coral reefs and their appearance. However, being 50 feet underwater - surrounded by coral structures and immersed in the busy lives of countless fish and other marine organisms - is truly a life-changing experience.”
Reef Renewal Bonaire (RRB) is an organization that works to increase the number of coral reefs in Bonaire through its coral nurseries and farms. Students had a chance to learn about RRB’s work firsthand, both by visiting the coral farm in the ocean and during a presentation by RRB staff.
Junior Austin Wise said, “I was impressed by the biodiversity and natural beauty we encountered across the island and the people we met who have dedicated their lives to protecting such a special place.”
While they weren’t in the ocean, students enjoyed exploring the island. One group struck out for Washington-Slagbaai National Park where they climbed Mount Brandaris, the tallest peak on Bonaire. Senior Karen Gonzalez shared that climbing to the summit “was incredibly worthwhile, as the view was breathtaking”.
For most participants, the highlight of the week was a rare chance to dive near a bait ball, an enormous school of fish that are kept together, in part, by predatory fish and birds that concentrate the prey species. Dr. Joe Poston, on his fourth trip to Bonaire with the class, shared, “The bait ball was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced while diving. Seeing photos and videos of a school of fish didn’t prepare me for the experience of swimming in their midst. They were mesmerizing and beautiful.”
“I am so excited to use my diving certifications in the future and maybe even be lucky enough to swim in a bait ball again!” Larkin said.
Dr. Erin Witalison made her first trip to Bonaire. "Visiting Bonaire with the Marine Science class was amazing—exploring the island and diving for the first time with such a great group of students made it so special for me! I can’t wait to go back with the next class in 2026!"
“Being there helps students experience the splendor and fragility of our natural world,” added Lowery. “We are blessed to experience something that so few people ever have the chance to experience.”
Wise said, "The Bonaire trip was such an amazing first diving experience. The people, wildlife, and awe-inspiring experiences made the week-long adventure unforgettable.”
