Since Day One: Honoring Two Employees’ 30-Year Journey at The Florida Aquarium

TAMPA, FL (April 3, 2025) – As The Florida Aquarium marks three decades in downtown Tampa, two employees are also commemorating a remarkable achievement—30 years of service at the Aquarium since it opened its doors on March 31, 1995.

Rita Coley, The Florida Aquarium’s Environmental Services Manager, vividly remembers the excitement from opening day. “We had people lined up all the way down to the parking lot, wrapping around the building. I remember thinking ‘Look at all these guests who have come here to see us!’ I was so appreciative,” Coley said.

Coley started working in reservations, then joined guest relations, and now leads a team of 15 who help keep the Aquarium in tip-top shape. She credits her love for the job, her teammates, and the guests for remaining at the Aquarium all these years. She enjoys watching the otters in the Wetlands of Florida exhibit and believes the Aquarium’s impact on marine conservation and education is what keeps it thriving. “I just want other people to learn from what we do and care about what we do. And if they keep doing that, the only way we have to continue to go is up.”

Eric Hovland, Animal Care Specialist at The Florida Aquarium, is affectionately known as the “Shark Guy” and has also been at the Aquarium since day one. “When the opportunity to be part of the opening team of The Florida Aquarium came up, I was first in line—bring me on board! And I’m still here because we have such an opportunity to share everything great about Florida that got me to become a marine biologist,” Hovland said. “It got me excited about our environment and just being an animal nerd. And when you get folks excited about that, they start to care about the whole planet.”

Hovland says he takes great pride in the connections guests make during their visit. “Every time someone comes in, maybe they came to meet the penguins, but they leave loving sharks or knowing that corals are alive and important,” he said. “Those are the moments—and I get to celebrate those every day.”

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WITH RITA COLEY & ERIC HOVLAND

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OF THE 30TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

Join the 30th Anniversary Celebration
As The Florida Aquarium reflects on three decades of inspiring guests and making a difference in marine conservation, there’s no better time to experience all it has to offer. Today kicks off $30 Thursdays at The Florida Aquarium celebrating 30 years of protecting marine life and creating unforgettable experiences—and the community is invited to join in the milestone. Guests can dive into the fun for $30 on Thursdays throughout April. Tickets must be reserved at least 24 hours in advance. Visit the Aquarium’s website to check out new hours and make a reservation today.

Contact The Florida Aquarium communications@flaquarium.org