A role-play activity is presented that was designed for a STEM education learning experience to enrich science literacy, collaboration, and critical-thinking skills in undergraduate science courses. During the role-play, learners assumed the roles of critical stakeholders involved with Everglades restoration activities. After conducting research and relating academic content to relevant, real-world contextual situations, learners participated in a mock town hall event. Open deliberation and debates stimulated interest and engagement. Emergent benefits from this role-play activity included collaborating effectively, forming evidence-based perspectives, and using metacognitive strategies.