Today, we have the second of our Academy of Natural Sciences COVIDCalls—today we talk about the collections of this amazing institution and how they’ve fared in this extraordinary time of COVID-19.
Mark Sabaj began studying fishes as an undergrad at the University of Richmond, Virginia. After completing his Masters degree there, he moved to the University of Illinois where he earned a Ph.D. He joined The Academy as a Collections Manager in 2000 and is now the Interim Curator. He has collected fishes throughout the US and on 43 expeditions to 12 countries on four continents. He has deposited over 10,000 lots of over 84,000 specimens into The Academy fish collection, about 800 lots shy of the leading contributor, the late James Böhlke. Mark is also a fish photographer
Niki Ciccotelli Stewart is the chief learning and engagement officer at The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University. In her current role, she oversees the exhibits, learning, visitor services, and volunteer services departments and is charged with creating an outstanding, meaningful, and relevant visitor experience for every single person that comes to the museum.
Niki holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Ringling School of Art and Design in Sarasota, Florida, where she majored in Illustration and minored in Photography.  She has studied at Johns Hopkins University, The College of New Jersey, and Moore College of Art and Design.