Join us on Thursday, November 19, 2026, for a fascinating program featuring Jen Hazeres, Senior Biologist, and Jolene Hanna, Animal Health & Quarantine Manager, at Newport Aquarium, as they present “Shark Ray Conservation at Newport Aquarium.”

Jen Hazeres is a Senior Biologist at Newport Aquarium, where she manages several exhibits, including Surrounded by Sharks, which currently houses two Bowmouth Guitarfish, also known as Shark Rays. Since being introduced to Shark Rays in 2005, Jen has developed a passion for the species and for the important role aquariums play in conservation efforts for this critically endangered animal.

Since the position was established in 2018, Jen has served as the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) studbook keeper for the species. She is the primary or co-author of several articles focused on Shark Rays, including the recently published study “Observations of Reproductive Behaviors in the Critically Endangered Bowmouth Guitarfish,” which focuses on data collected at Newport Aquarium. Jen also participates in Shark Ray 360 (SR360), a global consortium dedicated to Bowmouth Guitarfish conservation.

Jolene Hanna is the Animal Health and Quarantine Manager at Newport Aquarium, where her responsibilities include management of the Aquarium’s Veterinary Hospital. She has dedicated 24 years to the Aquarium and its animals.

Jolene entered the aquarium industry as an intern while completing her Veterinary Technician coursework and has been a valuable resource to Newport Aquarium’s Animal Care Team ever since. She began preparing for her career as a Marine Biology major at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. The combination of her scientific and medical backgrounds has provided a strong foundation for her work in animal care within a zoological setting.

Together, Jen and Jolene will provide an inside look at Newport Aquarium’s work with Shark Rays, sharing their experience caring for this remarkable species and the important conservation efforts underway to help protect its future.

RSVPs are required to attend, whether you are eating lunch or not, so if you would like to attend, please click HERE by 5:00 p.m., Friday, November 13, 2026, or contact [email protected]. If you are not a current member of the Rotary Club of Cincinnati, please note lunches are $30, and payment will be collected at the door via cash, check, or credit card.  Please reach out to [email protected] with any questions.

Meal Choices – 

Regular Entrée: Grilled Chicken, Sichuan Sauce, Basmati Rice, & Garlic Ginger Green Beans.

Salad Entrée: Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad w/Edamame, Tomato, Cheddar, Egg, Avocado, Dijon Vinaigrette.

Vegetarian Entrée: Cavatappi Pasta w/Lemon Cream Sauce, Peas, Arugula & Zucchini.