Ray Bowman

Ray Bowman is undoubtedly one of UNF's most active environmental faculty members.

Coming to UNF from California Institute of Technology in Pasadena, he became the faculty advisor of the Sawmill Slough Conservation Club in 1975 and coordinated the first three UNF Earth Celebrations beginning in 1977.

He designed and helped establish the UNF Nature Trail System that was given National Recreational Trail status by the U.S. Department of Interior in 1978. His nature interests also played a role in his decision to lead the campaign which resulted in the choice of the osprey as UNF's mascot.

On the academic level, Bowman has been active in mathematics and science programs. Since 1985, he has been director of the Northeast Florida Institute for Science, Mathematics and Computer Education, an organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of science, mathematic and computer science education. From 1989 to 1993 he was chairman of the Department of Natural Sciences and in 1995 he became advisor for the University's Premed Program.

Bowman says he came to UNF because it offered an opportunity to help build a university and to focus on high quality teaching. One of his most memorable experiences has been helping to build a high quality chemistry program and assisting in enhancing the quality of precollege education in mathematics and science in Duval County public schools.