2025 NMEA Elections—Candidates
The NMEA Board is the leadership body that ensures our organization is sustainable and steers our forward progress in a manner that reflects our membership’s needs. The board has created new scholarship opportunities, established new committees, hired new staff, and supported the purchase of new technologies to improve members’ experiences. And this was all in the last few years!
Below is a slate of candidates that have stepped up to offer their service to the organization and we could not be more appreciative of the time and talent they are extending to our organization. Each of these elected positions serves a three-year term.
Official election ballots will be sent to all members in good standing the week of June 1st and voting will be open for 2 weeks. We encourage you to exercise your membership right to vote in the annual election. Your vote counts towards defining the leadership of NMEA, which helps to shape the future and the success of our organization. We thank you for your participation. The new board members will begin their terms at the NMEA 2024 Annual Business Meeting during the conference.
Many thanks,
Lindsay Patterson
NMEA Past-President (2023-2024)
President-elect Candidate
Sean Russell, Florida
Director of Youth Engagement, EarthEcho International
How do you currently support marine education?
I have spent the past decade collaborating with non-profits, corporations, and government agencies to advance the fields of marine education, conservation, and science with a focus on building programs that equip young people to take on roles as marine educators and ocean advocates. As the Director of Youth Engagement at EarthEcho International, I lead EarthEcho’s strategy and initiatives designed to build the capacity of young advocates working to protect and restore our ocean planet, cultivating partnerships with diverse stakeholders to grow our work to engage youth in over 100 countries. I have been an active member of NMEA since 2013, currently serving my third term as a board member and as the co-chair of NMEA’s student engagement committee, with a strong focus on creating pathways for youth and early career professionals to connect to NMEA and access the knowledge base, resources, and professional community offered to members. I have also supported the development of two NMEA strategic plans over the past ten years and spent three terms on NMEA’s Executive Committee. My work makes connections between education, advocacy, and youth engagement, ensuring marine education is accessible, actionable, and relevant to the next generation of ocean champions.
What skills or assets would you bring to NMEA?
I bring over a decade of experience leading program development, organizational strategy, and cross-sector partnerships, working at the intersection of marine science education, conservation, and advocacy. At a time when marine, climate, and environmental education are facing unprecedented threats, I offer a proven ability to unite non-traditional stakeholders and partners around shared goals, which will strengthen NMEA’s support for our members and our impact as we implement our new strategic plan. My work designing and scaling initiatives for youth and early career professionals positions me to help NMEA grow its membership and remain responsive to the evolving needs of the next-generation workforce.
I am grateful for the impact NMEA has had on my career and would be honored to serve as President-Elect!
Secretary CANDIDATEs
Sonia Ahrabi-Nejad, Massachusetts
Interpretive Coordinator, Zoo New England
How do you currently support marine education?
I am the Interpretive Coordinator at Zoo New England in Boston, Massachusetts. In this role I facilitate coordination between the Education and other Zoo departments to create interpretive zoo chats and signage. We are currently building a new African Penguin exhibit and I am a core member creating the interpretation and educational storyline of the new signage. By connecting people to the penguins we can highlight their role in environmental stewardship, by participating in sustainable seafood and understanding their carbon footprint and how to take part in climate change solutions. I have worked as a marine biologist/educator in 5 coastal states, driving an airboat in the Florida Everglades, teaching youth in New Orleans, creating climate resilience curriculum along the Gulf of Mexico, and connecting people to wild places in New York City. I take what I learned from all of those places to connect people in Massachusetts to the aquatic world around them.
What skills or assets would you bring to NMEA?
I am passionate about marine and environmental education and know that we are stronger when we share ideas and grow together. I am organized, both in my personal love of spreadsheets as well as through facilitating meetings thanks to NOAA’s Planning and Facilitating Collaborative Meetings course. I served as Treasurer for the Southern Association of Marine Educators, the co-lead for Coast Women in Science, and have been on the 2025 SAME-NMEA conference planning committee. I am skilled at informal education and have my Certificate of Interpretive Guiding issued by National Association for Interpretation (NAI).
I’m a marine biologist and educator who loves talking with people about our connection to the planet and each other.
Jaime Thom, South Carolina
Assistant Director of Education, South Carolina Aquarium
How do you currently support marine education?
As the Assistant Director of Education at the South Carolina Aquarium, I am in charge of marine education programming at the Aquarium' Learning Lab. This includes School Programs, Outreach, Virtual Programs, Evening Education Programs, Camps, Curriculum and Teacher Workshops. I manage and support an amazing group of marine educators spreading our love of the ocean and how to conserve water, wildlife and wild places. I am also a long-time member of the South Carolina Marine Educators Association (SCMEA) and serve as a volunteer for the Folly Beach Turtle Watch.
What skills or assets would you bring to NMEA?
I enjoy being a part of this organization that excels in marine education. I bring a passion for education, and love for the ocean and a dedication to helping NMEA make known the world of water. I am organized, dependable, hardworking and love being around other ocean enthusiasts.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS CANDIDATES
In 2022, the NMEA board voted to increase our number of directors by one each year for the next 3 years, to end up with 12 directors. As a result, there will be four director positions available in 2025.
Trey Broadhurst, Texas
Biology Instructor, Lone Star College
How do you currently support marine education?
Trey has been sharing his passion for conservation since his first visits to the cypress swamps and salt marshes of south Louisiana. Trey cherishes his experiences as an interpreter at Cape Hatteras National Seashore and the Great Barrier Reef Aquarium. Since then, he has served as a formal educator at colleges and universities in Louisiana and Texas. Trey is especially proud that his research on oyster spat settlement is currently being used to rebuild reefs around the U.S. He has been fortunate to have participated in the removal of invasive species from Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park in Hawaiʻi and Waiparere, a QEII trust property in New Zealand. He was privileged to take part in a project sponsored by the Shedd Aquarium promoting ecotourism on Jandayan Island, The Philippines. During his time in the Florida Keys, Trey participated in coral restoration efforts with I.CARE (Islamorada Conservation and Restoration Education) and Mote Marine’s Coral Nursery. He also volunteered at Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder and the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center. The highlight of his time in the Keys was assisting in the tagging and release of Sheldon, a male loggerhead turtle rescued by the U.S. Coast Guard off Pigeon Key.
What skills or assets would you bring to NMEA?
Trey’s main strength involves making and maintaining connections with other educators. Serving on the Board would allow him to formally put those talents to use for the benefit of NMEA. The dissolution of TMEA (Texas Marine Educators Association) resulted in Trey joining OCEANIA in planning for (the cancelled) NMEA 2020, and FMSEA in 2022 while living in the Florida Keys. He is currently an active member of SAME and a member of the NMEA 2025 planning committee. Trey welcomes NMEA 2025 attendees to Acadiana, the place where he grew up and loves so much!
Trey cherishes his time underwater almost as much as the friends he has made since first joining NMEA in 2013.
David Eatough, Massachusetts
Retired High School Science Teacher, Revere Public Schools
How do you currently support marine education?
Uncertain what to write, I read, a lot. Jay Griffiths in her book, “WILD An Elemental Journey”, writes, “the call of the sea can be a compulsion from childhood”. E. O. Wilson calls the compulsion biophilia. I have an innate affinity for life, biophilia, possibly in my DNA and definitely in my heart and mind. I have a compulsion to teach as well. I believe there is an urgency for work at the intersection of science and education.
My love for the ocean planet is transparent and contagious. Tidepools and other ecosystems have saved me and will save others, emotionally and physiologically. When former students send pictures, such as a bald eagle pair copulating, I know, awkwardly, I tapped into their innate affinity as well. I have taught in an urban public high school for thirty years. If I had otoliths there would be many layers. I have been a member of Massachusetts Marine Educators and the National Marine Education Association forever, Maui to Maine, but not really forever; not as long as others. I have supported their efforts “behind the scenes” for much of that time. I am grateful for being part of the best network of people.
What skills or assets would you bring to NMEA?
Being a successful teacher requires transferable skills. You need to identify needs, be creative, communicate, be organized, show empathy, and have clear, measurable goals. You need to hold students and colleagues accountable and have fun. I have these skills and assets. I have passion, yes, I do, or I wouldn’t be interested in this role. My work in an urban high school has made me passionate for giving all students access to opportunities. Their success feeds my hope that the world’s young people will find a way to right the wrongs. I am buoyant.
“I enjoy poetry, long walks on the beach, and poking dead things with a stick.” - Bumper sticker.
Kasey Gaylord-Opalewski, Florida
Associate Director of Programs, EarthEcho International
How do you currently support marine education?
I have dedicated over 20 years to advancing marine education through active involvement with the National Marine Educators Association (NMEA) and the Florida Marine Science Educators Association (FMSEA). In 2016, I co-chaired the NMEA Conference in Orlando, Florida, bringing together educators to share best practices and foster collaboration.
In my current role as Associate Director of Programs at EarthEcho International, I lead initiatives that connect youth and educators with tools and resources to explore and protect marine and freshwater ecosystems. I oversee the EarthEcho Water Challenge and EarthEcho Academy, which empower the next generation of ocean stewards through hands-on science, community action, and career-connected learning.
Through these roles, I support marine education by facilitating professional development opportunities, promoting best practices in marine science education, and fostering a collaborative network of educators committed to advancing marine literacy.
What skills or assets would you bring to NMEA?
I bring over two decades of experience in marine and environmental education, strategic program development, and nonprofit leadership. As Associate Director of Programs at EarthEcho International, I manage national and global initiatives that empower educators and youth to engage with ocean and climate science. My background includes conference planning, board service, and strong collaborative networks through NMEA, FMSEA, and NAAEE. I excel at building partnerships, developing impactful learning experiences, and advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in science education. These skills position me to contribute meaningfully to NMEA’s mission and help grow its reach and relevance for today’s educators.
I've dedicated my entire professional career to ocean education and hope to contribute meaningfully to NMEA's important work.
Amy Heemsoth, Maryland
Director of Education and Chief Operating Officer, Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation
How do you currently support marine education?
As Director of Education and Chief Operating Officer at the Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation, I lead initiatives that promote ocean literacy, with a focus on tropical marine ecosystems and communities in Small Island Developing States (SIDS). My work spans K–12, informal education, and community engagement, connecting people to the ocean through inquiry-based, culturally relevant learning experiences.
I collaborate with scientists, educators, and conservation practitioners to design high-quality curricula and hands-on programs that empower students and educators to become active ocean stewards. This includes directing the creation of our award-winning Coral Reef Ecology Curriculum and leading international efforts like the Science Without Borders® Challenge, which inspires youth through the intersection of science and art.
Through Caribbean mangrove education and restoration programs such as J.A.M.I.N., B.A.M., Mangrove Detectives, and Mangrove DEALs, I work closely with local partners to deliver experiential learning opportunities rooted in real-world conservation, engaging a wide range of community stakeholders.
I also support professional development for educators and advocate for equitable access to marine science resources globally. I’m passionate about inspiring the next generation of ocean stewards and believe deeply in the power of education to create lasting change for our ocean.
What skills or assets would you bring to NMEA?
I bring over 20 years of experience in marine education across formal and informal settings in the U.S. and internationally. As a nonprofit leader at an international marine conservation organization, I offer strategic vision, board governance experience, financial oversight, and a strong track record of building cross-sector partnerships and leading impactful education programs. Having served on the NMEA Student Engagement Committee and 2014 Conference Committee, I’m excited to give back to the organization that has been instrumental in my professional journey and to help foster a vibrant, inclusive community for current and future marine educators.
Serving the dedicated NMEA community and its inspired mission would be an honor and a privilege.
Jennifer Kennedy, New Hampshire
Executive Director, Blue Ocean Society for Marine Conservation
How do you currently support marine education?
As the Executive Director of a nonprofit focused on ocean education and research, I support marine education by facilitating science-based programs that connect people with the ocean and inspire them to act. With over 24 years of experience in leading whale watches, beach cleanups and educational programs for people of all ages, I am passionate about making marine science engaging and relatable. Currently, I primarily lead education programs for adults through presentations to area organizations, groups and businesses about the Gulf of Maine and how individuals can protect the ocean.
I have been a board member and active member of GOMMEA since 2014, and currently serve as NMEA Chapter Rep. I am also Chair-Elect (Chair in May) of the New England Ocean Science Educational Collaborative (NEOSEC). I believe that collaboration and connection are essential to marine education and organizational strength, and I work to build bridges between organizations and people who are passionate about the ocean.
What skills or assets would you bring to NMEA?
I have a strong background in non-profit management, strategic planning, budgeting, grant-writing and fundraising. I enjoy connecting people with each other and with resources that help them achieve their goals. I understand the challenges nonprofits face, including funding, staff retention and working successfully with board members and volunteers. I am familiar with marine education organizations, regional and national networks, and initiatives aligned with NMEA’s mission. I would enjoy bringing practical experience and a teamwork mindset to support NMEA’s continued growth and impact.
I have enjoyed getting more involved in NMEA as a Chapter Rep. I look forward to expanding this connection!
Frances Lang, California
Instructor, UC San Diego
How do you currently support marine education?
I have taught in both formal and informal education settings throughout my career. Currently, as an Instructor at UC San Diego, I teach a first-of-its-kind Ocean Conservation Behavior course that focuses on conservation action and behavior change. I design educational modules to equip students with the skills and knowledge to pursue ocean conservation careers; foster interdisciplinary and cross-cultural learning, emphasizing practical applications of conservation principles and behavior change strategies; and mentor students of all ages to explore workforce opportunities in the environmental field. Previously, I founded Ocean Connectors, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing marine education and community outreach programs across Southern California and Mexico. I also established the Teach For the Ocean Initiative at The Ocean Foundation to help optimize global ocean education and communication strategies.
I have held the position of Conservation Committee Chair for NMEA for the past year and a half, which has included updating and re-launching the Committee, recruiting new members and organizing in-person and virtual meetings, and initiating a new mapping project which will serve as an informational resource highlighting unique waterways around the U.S.
What skills or assets would you bring to NMEA?
I have led the development of marine education training modules, information and networking resources, and mentorship services for nearly 20 years. I believe in leveraging the power of behavioral science and conservation psychology to influence individual and collective action in support of ocean health. My background in behavior change, ocean literacy, global issues, and nonprofit management will benefit NMEA and support the implementation of the Strategic Plan. Specifically, I am eager to contribute my skills in nonprofit fundraising, program design and implementation, partner development, communications, and business strategy to advance NMEA’s goals.
I am a Certified Interpretive Guide, SCUBA diver, and previously worked as a Substitute School Teacher in San Diego.
Charlene Mauro, Florida
Director, Navarre Beach Marine Science Station, Teacher on Special Assignment, Santa Rosa County Schools
How do you currently support marine education?
I contribute to marine science education as the founder and director of the Navarre Beach Marine Science Station in Santa Rosa County, Florida. I develop and implement marine science programs through curriculum development, grant writing, and public outreach to make education accessible to learners of all ages and backgrounds.
Through Pensacola State College, I teach Marine Biology and Oceanography to dual enrollment students who attend classes at the station. These students, in turn, educate younger children participating in programs at the marine station. Each year, my students and I reach over 3,000 students and community members through hands-on, inquiry-based educational experiences.
I also collaborate with local, regional, and national organizations, including the Gulf of Mexico Alliance (GOMA), the Gulf of Mexico Coastal Ocean Observing System (GCOOS), NOAA, the National Academies of Sciences (NAS) Gulf Research Program, and the University of West Florida. My commitment to inclusion and accessibility has established the station as a model for community engagement. I have secured over $1 million in grants to support programming, outreach, and ADA-accessible infrastructure making marine science education accessible to everyone. I regularly present my work at regional, state, and national conferences, including the National Marine Educators Association (NMEA), the Florida Marine Science Educators Association (FMSEA), the Southern Association of Marine Educators (SAME), and the National Science Teaching Association (NSTA).
What skills or assets would you bring to NMEA?
With over 20 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, I bring a unique blend of skills essential for the NMEA Board of Directors. My background includes project management, event planning, and grant writing, allowing me to develop and implement impactful marine education programs. I have extensive experience in building community partnerships, engaging stakeholders, and fostering collaboration among diverse groups. My ability to network and communicate effectively ensures I can represent NMEA’s mission while building strategic alliances.
After 25 years in NMEA, I am inspired to give back to the organization that shaped my journey as an educator.
Sarah Nuss, Virginia
Education Coordinator, Chesapeake Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve in VA/Virginia Institute of Marine Science
How do you currently support marine education?
Dr. Sarah Nuss is the Education Coordinator for the Chesapeake Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve in Virginia (CBNERR-VA) located at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS). Sarah has worked with CBNERR-VA for the last 20 years where she and her team specialize in marine science programming such as the VIMS summer camp program, experiential field experiences for students, and teacher and graduate student professional development. One of the key programs Sarah coordinates along with partners at VIMS Marine Advisory Program is the Virginia Scientists and Educators Alliance (VA SEA) which is a network of graduate students, teachers, and informal educators aimed at translating marine science research into usable lesson plans. Since 2015, over 75 graduate students have developed over 80 lesson plans which have been downloaded over 24,000 times all over the world. In addition to these programs, Sarah’s research within marine education focuses on several key areas such as the influence of pre-service teacher preparation on teachers’ inclusion of environmental education, impact of experiential marine science on students and teachers, and pathways leading to a career in ocean science.
What skills or assets would you bring to NMEA?
Sarah brings passion for hands-on marine science for all – students, teachers, graduate students, and the general public. She brings over 20 years of experience working in the marine science education field, with a strong interest in fostering the next generation of marine educators. In addition, she has been an active member on the Mid-Atlantic Marine Education Association (MAMEA) board, including the president’s chain and the representative from MAMEA to the NMEA board. Currently, she serves as the MAMEA secretary.
I would be honored to serve on the NMEA board!
Rae Quadara, Mississippi
Artist/Owner/Consultant, Rae Rae The Science BAE LLC
How do you currently support marine education?
As an artist and consultant, I work with organizations to create inclusive programs at the intersection of environmental education and art. I’m no stranger to utilizing my voice for amplifying what is needed in a professional setting and to hold uncomfortable conversations to allow room for growth. In my career path of management and science education, I have implemented evaluation to include traditional quantitative data as well as reflection and qualitative data. In September 2023, I was accepted into the Coastal & Estuarine Research Federation’s inaugural Inclusive Leadership Program cohort.
Among my strengths, I lead with empathy which is necessary in sciences where interpersonal skills are frequently overlooked or even culturally and intentionally discouraged. I use empathy to make authentic connections, aiming to build long-term community networks with my fellow scientists, students, creatives, leaders and more. I am an open-minded and curious person, and I am not afraid to ask questions thoughtfully and purposefully with a growth mindset, wanting feedback to improve my own processes. With this passion for creating space, I have also had the honor to serve as the Co-Chair of the Equity and Belonging Committee for the National Marine Educators Association since 2022.
What skills or assets would you bring to NMEA?
With over 8 years of experience, my work is rooted in inclusive mentorship, mindful reflections, and creating a sense of belonging in STEAM fields. I attribute the transdisciplinary nature of my work to my intersecting identities and experience as a biologist, artist, educator, woman of color, person living with chronic illnesses, and more! I have had the privilege to serve on the national steering committee of the Society for Women in Marine Science (SWMS) from 2022 to 2024 as well as co-chair of local SWMS chapter Women + Gender Minorities in Coastal Science (CoastWIS+) here in the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
I am extremely grateful for this nomination and am honored for this opportunity to continue to serve NMEA!
Yolanda Sánchez Álvarez, Spain
Marine Educator, Latin American Marine Education Network
How do you currently support marine education?
I support marine education through interdisciplinary approaches that emphasize innovation in educational methodologies, engagement, leadership, and networking. My contributions in Latin America, África and Europe include:
Designing, implementing, evaluating, and researching education and engagement projects aimed at increasing ocean literacy and promoting marine conservation leadership.
Developing educational materials such as illustrated books and exhibitions to support learning and public awareness.
Coordinating the Latin American Marine Education Network (RELATO) to professionalize the field, share resources, and strengthen the community of practice.
Training professionals in organizations to incorporate innovative didactic and science education strategies into marine education programs.
What skills or assets would you bring to NMEA?
Like many members of this network, I bring creativity, commitment to effective marine education practices, and a strong interest in global collaboration and advocacy for increasing ocean literacy relevance. In particular, I offer a perspective shaped by diverse experiences across continents: academic training in Europe, eight years of professional development in Chile and Latin America, and the past four years working in Europe and Africa. Through RELATO, I have remained actively connected to global marine education networks, allowing me to both learn from and represent Latin American perspectives in international discussions; it will be an honour to do so also through NMEA.
NMEA has inspired my journey in marine education and connected me with professionals who guided my professional life; joining this network would be an honour and a chance to learn deeply.