This class was conducted during the four week January term at Franklin College of Indiana.  This winterterm class was designed as an introduction to tropical biology with particular emphasis on coral reef ecosystems.  Additional readings/discussions involved the country of Belize and the Maya civilization.  Students studied the fish and invertebrates of the Caribbean, the Mayan civilization, and plants of  tropical ecosystems for two weeks prior to spending nine days in Belize.  The final few days of the class were spent reflecting on our experiences in a variety of ways including the student designed and produced web pages below.

I would like to thank Ken Mattes, Ph.D.  and Maureen Gannon, BSN of Belize Marine TREC for making all the arrangements for our stay in Belize.  I highly recommend them to those considering taking academic groups to Belize.  I would also like to thank all the wonderful people of Belize who made our stay educational and very enjoyable.  On the mainland, Rene of Cayo Adventure Tours made our short time there both enjoyable and educational.  On the mainland we stayed at Clarissa Falls in the Cayo District.  Chena Galvez and her son Mark were graitious hosts and provided tremendous help during our stay as well as before we arrived.  I would be happy to answer any questions or receive any comments you might have concerning this experience or this web site.   I can be reached at wpohley@franklincollege.edu . 

Dave Federoff Jill Carson Tim Bush Landon Brothers

Richelle Pack Heidi Schlicker Dan Wheeler

Brittany Smithey Kate Krukemeier Lance LaBonte

Crystal Anderson Ashley Morog Laura Young