Documentary Short Premiering January 17 Honors Dr. Bill Hammond’s Legacy and the Community That Built Calusa Nature Center

FORT MYERS, Fla. — A new documentary short by filmmaker John Biffar will premiere January 17 at the Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium, honoring the legacy of Dr. Bill Hammond, Ph.D., Founder and Board Member Emeritus, and the collective efforts of the many individuals who helped establish and sustain one of Southwest Florida’s most important environmental institutions.

The private premiere event, which will be livestreamed on the Calusa Nature Center Facebook page, will celebrate Dr. Hammond’s vision, leadership, and decades of dedication to environmental education, conservation, and community engagement.

Featuring interviews with Executive Director Eric Raddatz, Dr. Bill Hammond, Susie Hassett and Dick Anderson, members of the Board of Trustees, the documentary traces the Center’s origins and illustrates how Hammond’s work—supported by educators, volunteers, scientists, and community leaders—helped shape the Calusa Nature Center into a 105-acre preserve and learning destination.

The film underscores that Calusa’s success has always been rooted in collaboration, highlighting the many people who answered Dr. Hammond’s call to protect nature, expand access to science education, and inspire stewardship across generations.

The January 17 event will bring together longtime supporters and colleagues, many of whom will speak about Dr. Hammond’s influence, the partnerships he fostered, and the lasting impact of his work on environmental education in Southwest Florida.

“This documentary reflects Bill Hammond’s belief that conservation and education succeed when a community comes together,” said Executive Director Eric Raddatz.

Members of the public are invited to watch the livestream on Facebook at 4 p.m. and participate by supporting Calusa’s mission. Donations may be made today at www.calusanature.org, helping ensure the Center’s programs, wildlife care, trails, and planetarium experiences continue for future generations.

Media Contact:

Eric Raddatz

Executive Director,

Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium

239-275-3435 eraddatz@calusanature.org