Franco Mariotti hangs up his Bluecoat

One of the most recognizable faces at Science North is set to hang up his Bluecoat, for the last time, this month.

Staff scientist Franco Mariotti officially retires on Dec. 11, 2014 after 33 years of inspiring people of all ages to be engaged with the science in the world around them.

Science North has been a part of Mariotti’s life since its inception in 1981. As a biologist, Mariotti’s first role was leading the development of the Live Creatures area of Science North and its unique approach to hands-on education. Live animals, as ambassadors of their species, continue to be an icon experience for the science centre.

In recent years, Mariotti has also played a key role in the development of Science North’s travelling exhibitions, starting with Discovering Chimpanzees: The remarkable world of Jane Goodall, and including Ends of the Earth, Creatures of the Abyss, and Wildlife Rescue.

Mariotti has also shared his knowledge and science centre expertise working on projects for external clients, including working with David Lickley, Science North’s former Director of Large Format Films, on the filming of Jane Goodall’s Wild Chimpanzees (2002) and Born to be Wild 3D (2010).

“Franco Mariotti epitomizes our Bluecoat standards of excellence. He has an incredible gift for interpreting and explaining science to people of all ages. His genuine passion for science ignites enthusiasm in every single person he shares his knowledge with,” said Jennifer Pink, Science North science director.

Mariotti said he is proud to have played a role in Science North’s first 30 years.

“I knew from an early age what I wanted to do with my life. I wanted people to understand how important the natural world was in all of our lives, because it was to me. Being able to give back to the natural world, and share the wonder and self-discovery that it gives me, has been a honour. I have been very fortunate to be able to pursue my passion by working at Science North, and its been an experience that I am very proud of being involved with.”