Dr. Joan Holt
A Marine Biologist at the University of Texas Marine Science Institute for more than 35 years, Joan retired in 2013 as a Professor Emerita of Marine Science. She Grew up in Fort Worth in a large family and attended the University of Texas at Arlington receiving both a Bachelor of Science and later a Master of Science Degree. She received her Ph.D. in Fisheries from Texas A&M University, where she met husband Scott. Her research at UTMSI concentrated on marine fish, especially the early life stages that are so very sensitive to changes in their environment. She also developed a love for birds and traveled the world with Scott, enjoying birding. They worked with the City of Port Aransas to develop the Leonabell Turnbull Birding Center, to acquire and create the Joan and Scott Holt Paradise Pond, and to compile a checklist of birds for Port Aransas and Mustang Island. Since retirement Joan has served on the Port Aransas City council for over 5 years emphasizing stormwater runoff and wetland protection and is a Board member of Keep Port Aransas Beautiful. She is also a consummate gardener and loves to cook.