Join us for a screening and panel discussion of “The Last Dive”, a new documentary following the story of a giant manta ray off the coast of Mexico. The film tells the story of a man named Terry who’s life was transformed by an unlikely friendship with Willy, a 22-foot oceanic manta ray. For nearly two decades, Willy would slap his wings against the hull of Terry’s sailboat to signal their next dive, and together they explored the ocean’s depths—an extraordinary bond that turned Terry into an unexpected conservationist. Now in his 80’s, Terry embarks on one final journey to a remote island in hopes of reuniting with his old friend. But he’s also searching for something deeper: peace, closure, and a chance to say goodbye.
Food, drinks, and a chance to win some exciting prizes will all be available at the event, so get ready for an evening of ocean adventure.
Dana Tricarico
Wildlife Conservation Society – Manta Ray Expert
Dana Tricarico received her Master’s of Professional Science from the University of Miami’s Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science in 2015 where she researched the invasive lionfish species in South Florida. Prior to that, she received her Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies from Siena College in 2014 with a minor in Psychology, and concentration in Globalization Studies.
She began her professional career as a biological science technician for the National Park Service, where she researched tropical marine ecosystem health and urban marine conservation. Through her fieldwork, and her experiences at various non-profits, she gained crucial outreach and administrative skills needed to coordinate conservation efforts.
Dana continues to maintain her certification as an AAUS scientific diver, National Park Service Blue Card Holder for their dive teams and is also a PADI Divemaster. Using her skill set, she hopes to continue to assist in the growth of the New York Seascape and the WCS Global Marine Conservation as a whole.