Dr. Beth Brady was born and raised in Berks County. After high school she enrolled in RACC’s nursing program. However, it did not take her long to discover her true passion. “Although I initially went to school to be an RN, after a few years of nursing, I realized I desired to learn more about marine biology.”

Dr. Brady graduated from RACC with an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree and worked as a nurse while returning to school to obtain her bachelor’s degree at Kutztown University. “RACC provided me with such a solid foundation that I was able to gain discipline in the field of nursing and continue my education.”

While obtaining her undergraduate degree in marine biology, Dr. Brady returned to RACC to take advanced science classes that transferred seamlessly to Kutztown. The small classes at RACC were very beneficial to Dr. Brady. “This was instrumental to me as I was intimidated in my chemistry and physics classes. At RACC, I was able to connect with my instructors and have more individualized instruction.”

After graduating from Kutztown, Dr. Brady volunteered with multiple marine mammal and wildlife organizations. “I found my love of manatees through an extended internship at Florida Fish and Wildlife.” Dr. Brady completed her master’s degree at Nova Southeastern University and her doctorate from Florida Atlantic University.

Dr. Brady has researched the vocalizations of manatees in their aquatic environments. In addition to manatees, Dr. Brady has also studied the vocalizations of dolphins, whales and even attempted alligators.

Looking back at her time at RACC, Dr. Brady credits the exceptional instruction she received from the faculty that started her on her educational journey. In fact, Dr. Brady has in turn become an adjunct instructor herself at Broward College and Colorado Technical University. “The faculty at RACC was extremely helpful in my success.”