Meet Kathy Roberts

A true Floridian at heart, Kathy grew up in Pensacola and has always had a love for sunshine, science, and staying active. She started college at Florida State University, even playing on the women’s basketball team, before transferring to the University of Florida—where she says she “finally came to her senses.”

When a friend introduced Kathy to volunteer opportunities at Florida Oceanographic Society, she jumped right in, helping with seagrass and oyster matting projects. These days, she’s a familiar face in our seagrass nursery, where she helps care for growing seagrass every week. Kathy says she enjoys the hands-on work, the camaraderie with other volunteers, and the simple joy of being outdoors giving back to nature.

When she’s not volunteering, you’ll find Kathy visiting her parents in Gainesville—often timing trips around Gator football games—or spending time with her six grandchildren (ages 6 to 18), two FSU-attending nephews, and her energetic 2-year-old chocolate lab, Whiskee.

Kathy has always lived life in motion. She’s completed 14 marathons, but now prefers long walks, cycling, kayaking, and pickleball. An avid reader and traveler, she’s just as happy with a good book as she is planning the next big adventure. Her most recent travels took her and Dave to Germany, Austria, and London—where they enjoyed Oktoberfest and cheered on their Cleveland Browns.

Whether in the classroom or in the seagrass nursery, Kathy continues to inspire those around her with her energy, curiosity, and love for Florida’s environment.

SNAP SHOT:

BORN: Knoxville, TN

COLLEGE: B.S. University of Florida; M.S. Nova University; Ed.S FAU

FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANT: Castaways. They think it is the “Cheers” of Jensen Beach…everyone knows your name and the food is great.

RECENT BOOK: Theo of Golden by Allen Levi