The fires that tore through Lahaina not only ravaged homes and landscapes but also shattered the fabric of our community. For me, this event was more than a professional challenge—it was a deeply personal one. My family and I lost our home, and in the aftermath, we found ourselves displaced, moving multiple times and facing significant hurdles. Finding stable housing has been a continuous struggle, especially with the added challenge of having a beloved pet. Despite these hardships, we remain hopeful, buoyed by the collective strength and resilience of our community.

Hoʻomau ka ʻuhane o Maui—the spirit of Maui endures

In the year since the fires, our island has been on a journey of recovery—one that is as complex as it is hopeful. The fires left a deep scar on Maui, with over 1,399 homes destroyed and entire neighborhoods reduced to rubble. 

But despite these immense challenges, there has been progress. Iconic places like Banyan Tree Park and the Lahaina public library are back open to residents, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the recovery efforts. The beloved Banyan tree, which was heavily damaged, has shown remarkable signs of regrowth, a symbol of our resilience. However, it’s important to acknowledge that while these milestones are significant, much work remains to be done. Affordable housing is still a critical issue, and many in our community remain displaced, grappling with the ongoing emotional toll of the tragedy.

The Community Resilience Fund in Action

In response to the fires, CORAL launched the Community Resilience Fund to provide unrestricted support to local environmental organizations and initiatives. The aim was to empower those who know Maui best—our local leaders, community members, and grassroots organizations—to address the most urgent environmental needs during this time of crisis. Over the past year, this fund has supported a wide range of environmental recovery efforts.

One of the organizations supported by the fund is Treecovery, which has potted 3,500 trees in 14 grow hubs across Maui and is partnering with master carver Dale Zarella on a series of carvings called “Rising from the Ashes; Spirits of Lāhainā.” These creations, crafted from burned trees, symbolize the resilience and regeneration of our land.

Another organization supported by the fund is the Maui Bioremediation Group, a grassroots coalition formed to address the environmental damage caused by the fires in Maui. Their mission is to heal the burn scars on the island using bioremediation—natural mitigation methods involving native plants, fungi, and locally-made compost. Their work focuses on making the soil safer for future planting, improving water quality, and protecting the ocean from toxic runoff.

The outpouring of support from across the globe has been overwhelming, and I’m deeply moved by the generosity of those who have contributed.

Healing Our Island’s Ecosystems

When the wildfire swept through Lahaina last August, it left behind a trail of toxic ash, laced with contaminants like arsenic, lead, and copper. These pollutants now pose a serious threat to nearshore health, which are vital to both our community’s economic stability and our cultural identity. Our regional program director, Manuel Mejia, often reminds us of the Hawaiian proverb, “E ola ke kai, E ola kākou,” meaning “As the sea thrives, so do we.” This connection between our well-being and the health of our reefs is deeply rooted in our lives here.

In the immediate aftermath, barriers were installed around storm drains to filter out debris, but much of the ash still makes its way into the ocean. Local scientists and community members are working tirelessly to monitor the situation. Citizen scientists are using drones to film runoff, and researchers are collecting soil and water samples to understand the extent of the contamination. For example, Dr. Andrea Kealoha from the University of Hawaii has been deploying water sensors that capture data on everything from oxygen levels to water movement, providing a clearer picture of how our reefs are responding.

The full impact of the toxins on coral reefs will take time to fully understand. In the short term, fewer human stressors like tourism might offer some temporary relief, but the long-term effects remain uncertain. There’s also concern about potential toxins building up in fish, threatening food security for many who rely on the reef for their sustenance.

As we continue to navigate these challenges, we’re committed to protecting and restoring our precious marine ecosystems, ensuring that they can thrive once again.

Looking Forward

There’s still so much to be done, but the resilience and determination of the Maui community give me hope. Every day, I’m inspired by the people around me—the neighbors who’ve turned their homes into makeshift shelters, the volunteers who’ve shown up day after day, and the donors who’ve contributed to our recovery efforts. This past year has been the most challenging of my life, but it has also been a testament to the power of community.

To everyone who has supported us—whether through donations, volunteer work, or simply keeping us in your thoughts—mahalo. Your support means the world to us as we continue the long road to rebuilding and restoring our island home.

The post Reflections and Resilience – A Year After the Lahaina Wildfires appeared first on Coral Reef Alliance.

A Childhood by the Sea

Kristy’s love for the ocean began early. Growing up in Miami, Florida, just a stone’s throw from the Florida Keys, she spent her childhood exploring the underwater world. “I grew up boating, snorkeling, and diving in Biscayne National Park,” she recalls. This early connection to the sea sparked a lifelong passion for marine conservation.

Her journey took her to the University of West Florida in Pensacola, where she majored in environmental resources. “I chose this university because it had a 1,000-acre wildlife preserve, much of which was beachfront—ideal for my studies.” Now, she lives on a serene lake just outside of Atlanta, Georgia, but her heart remains tethered to the ocean.

From Finance to Conservation

Kristy’s journey into non-profit finance was an unexpected yet fortunate turn of events. After graduating, she landed a job at the National Audubon Society. “The Director needed someone to help with the budget, and I volunteered. It quickly became apparent that I had a natural talent for finances and budgeting,” she explains. This newfound talent led her to earn a degree in finance, blending her passion for the environment with her financial skills.

Her innovative approach at Audubon, where she transformed the budget model and improved fundraising strategies, set the stage for her role at CORAL. 

I absolutely must work someplace where I can experience and feel the impact. With CORAL, I feel that I can actually make that happen.

Memorable Moments and Exciting Adventures

When she’s not working, Kristy and her partner, Sam, spend three months a year overlanding in their Jeep, exploring remote and stunning landscapes. “We take our Jeep, which pulls a small off-road trailer, out into the wilderness. We’re talking public lands where there aren’t people for miles. We actually work on the road, using Starlink for internet,” she says.

Kristy is also a passionate diver. One of her favorite dive experiences was when she swam through a massive school of moon jellies and came face-to-face with a manta ray. “It was enormous and absolutely amazing. Manta rays are not common in South Florida, so it was quite a rarity.”

Shaping the Future at CORAL

Kristy’s extensive background and innovative mindset make her an invaluable asset to CORAL. She’s eager to apply her knowledge and experience to propel our mission forward. “I love finding solutions and fixing broken systems. It excites me to work on a great idea, a plan, and figure out how to make it happen,” she says enthusiastically.

We’re beyond excited to have Kristy on our team and can’t wait to see the incredible impact she’ll make. Stay tuned for more adventures and insights from Kristy as she dives into her new role at CORAL!

Welcome to the team, Kristy!

The post Meet CORAL’s New Director of Finance and Operations appeared first on Coral Reef Alliance.

Recently, the CORAL team gathered in the vibrant coastal paradise of Cozumel, Mexico, for an unforgettable staff summit. This event brought together staff members, board members, and key partners from around the globe to collaborate, learn, and set the course for the future of coral reef conservation.

Our primary goals were to foster relationships among team members, promote cross-departmental collaboration, and provide opportunities for personal growth and skill enhancement. We dove into open-space conversations, tackled conflict resolution workshops, and enjoyed fun activities like scuba diving and snorkeling. These moments helped us bond, improve communication, and strengthen our commitment to protecting our oceans.

Experiencing Our Mission Firsthand

The dive excursions were a highlight for many of us, providing a chance to see the rich coral reefs of Cozumel up close. We enjoyed several morning dives (and snorkels), including a memorable dive with our board members. These underwater adventures were nothing short of magical. We encountered a variety of marine life, from baby sharks and giant sea turtles to elegant rays and a dazzling array of colorful fish. Every dive served as a reminder of the vibrant ecosystems we are dedicated to protecting.

It was particularly exciting to watch our dive masters talk through CORAL-produced dive guides, reminding visitors to adhere to sustainable diving practices. We dove in a Marine Protected Area (MPA), which added an extra layer of significance to our experience. Having a patrol boat check our passes was a highlight, as we know the importance of regulatory efforts in preserving these fragile environments. It was affirming to witness firsthand how our collaborative efforts with local authorities and partners are making a tangible difference.

Diving in the MPA not only allowed us to observe the stunning biodiversity of Cozumel’s reefs but also gave us a unique perspective on the impact of our conservation efforts in the region. Being in the water together and experiencing the beauty and challenges of the reefs reinforced our dedication to our mission and the importance of our work.

El momento más bonito para mi en el summit fue cuando me lancé al agua para hacer snorkel! (The most beautiful moment for me at the summit was when I jumped into the water to snorkel!)

-Monica Urrutia, Community Scientist

Spending time with the team and board members underwater was an incredible experience. It allowed us to see firsthand the vital importance of our work and underscored why protecting reefs is essential.

-Heather Starck, Executive Director

My favorite moment was diving with the whole team! Key moments included spotting a seahorse, double flying gurnards, and a huge turtle!

-Dr. Andrea Rivera-Sosa, Project and Outreach Manager

Workshops and Knowledge Sharing

Our summit was packed with engaging workshops and activities designed to boost our personal growth and skills. One of the standout sessions was our conflict resolution workshop. Using translation software, we broke down language barriers and connected with colleagues we hadn’t previously worked with. These sessions mixed insightful talks with hands-on role-playing exercises, giving us practical tools for navigating challenges and creating a more harmonious work environment.

We also participated in open-space conversations, where we could choose from various CORAL-related topics and break into small group discussions. This format allowed us to share thoughts, questions, and ideas freely, encouraging creative problem-solving and a deeper understanding of each other’s work.

The best part of the week was being able to see each other and interact personally, connect as a team, and identify our strategies and ways of collaborating. I think this strengthens us as a team.

Julio San Martin Chicas, Principal Program Coordinator for the North Coast

I loved connecting with coworkers I don’t usually meet with, gaining a better understanding of CORAL’s reach, and making valuable connections with the Western Caribbean team.

Sarah Severino, Maui Nui Program Research Coordinator

My favorite thing was getting to know more about the ‘whole person’ of many of our fabulous staff!

Dr. Helen Fox, Conservation Science Director

My favorite was feeling the good vibes and team bonding…and all the smiles!

Javier Pizaña-Alonso, Program Manager

Learning From the Cozumel Program Team and Local Partners

Throughout the week we had the opportunity to learn about Cozumel’s conservation program in the Western Caribbean. Tanya and Javier, our local experts, provided an in-depth overview, shedding light on both the challenges and successes faced by the region. They discussed the current state of Cozumel’s reefs, highlighting the main stressors such as climate change, pollution, overfishing, and tourism pressure.

Our ongoing efforts in the area include reef restoration, sustainable tourism, and community engagement programs. Tanya and Javier outlined our goals for FY25, emphasizing our commitment to expanding these initiatives. 

Collaboration with Destination Management Organizations (DMOs) and the cruise industry was another key focus. By creating DMOs, we ensure tourism development aligns with sustainable practices, benefiting both the environment and the local economy. Engaging with the cruise industry allows us to advocate for responsible tourism and reduce its environmental footprint.

At the end of the session, CORAL staff had the opportunity to sit down with local partners to better understand their work and explore future collaboration. These discussions provided invaluable insights and strengthened our commitment to working hand-in-hand with local communities to protect and restore coral reefs.

Learning from the successes and challenges in Cozumel gives us a deeper understanding of coral reef conservation complexities and inspires us to implement similar strategies globally.

My favorite part of the Summit was the opportunity to showcase the work being done here in the Western Caribbean, while connecting with the entire team as colleagues and most importantly as humans with a common goal.

Tanya Amaya, Regional Program Director

It was great to connect with someone who works directly with the Marine Protected Areas around Cozumel. Having an open dialogue and hearing firsthand about the challenges and benefits of this system was incredibly valuable.

Taylor Cook, Conservation Program Coordinator

Spending quality time with my remote coworkers is always a treat. Being physically in the same space as these wonderful humans–who share the same level of passion and dedication to the ocean–has deepened relationships in ways we are not able to through a computer screen.

Kate Beebe, Associate Marketing Director

Looking Forward

The CORAL Staff Summit in Cozumel was a testament to the power of unity and shared purpose. As we return to our respective regions, we carry with us renewed energy and a deeper commitment to protecting coral reefs. Together, we are poised to make even greater strides in conservation, ensuring that these vital ecosystems continue to thrive for generations to come.

The post Inside CORAL’s Action-Packed Staff Summit appeared first on Coral Reef Alliance.

For over 15 years, we’ve been all in, working tirelessly in Hawai’i to shield the reefs from pollution and advocate for cleaner, more sustainable wastewater systems. Our team embodies the spirit of malama i ke kai (caring for the ocean), crafting innovative solutions to protect these critical ecosystems and the communities that rely on them. So, let’s get to know the champions behind our efforts!

Manuel Mejia, Regional Program Director

Manuel is at the helm of our Hawai’i conservation efforts, mixing science with local know-how to do right by the reefs. He’s the proud owner of two master’s degrees—one in agricultural and biosystems engineering from McGill and another in environmental science and policy from Columbia. Manuel’s conservation journey has taken him around the world, from the Philippines to New York, and even aboard Hawaii’s traditional voyaging canoe, the Hokuleʻa.

• Favorite CORAL Memory: Getting to meet the team in person after starting with CORAL during the pandemic and diving with his teammates. 
• Outside of Work: Manuel loves hanging out with his dog, hitting the tennis courts, cooking up a storm, and, believe it or not, jumping off mountains for a bit of hang gliding and paragliding fun – he’s done it with his family and even on his honeymoon!

I love that we get to integrate science and human dimensions of coral conservation in our daily work resulting in better outcomes for the communities we work with and the coral reef ecosystems we are caring for.  I love seeing data-driven solutions making positive impacts for people and nature.

Manuel Mejia

Makayla Rickard, Maui Nui Program Manager

Makayla is deeply committed to enhancing the sustainability of Hawai’i’s natural resources. With a bachelor’s degree in Sustainable Science Management from the University of Hawai’i, she’s tackled island sustainability and resource management head-on. Her experience ranges from conservation work in the Pu’u Kukui Watershed Preserve to marine environmental consulting, highlighting her versatile approach to environmental protection. Makayla has also lent her voice and expertise as a board member for Kipuka Olowalu, proving her dedication to her community.

• Favorite Part of the Job: Makayla thrives on CORAL’s strategy to build resilient coastal communities, which allows her to engage with the local communities she holds dear in Hawai’i. 
• Outside of Work: Family time and beach days top her list of favorite things!

Supporting my community and coral reefs at the same time is a dream come true!

Makayla Rickard

Erica Perez, Senior Program Manager

Erica is a true ocean guardian, armed with degrees in marine science and conservation biology from the University of Hawai’i at Hilo. For nearly two decades, she’s been diving into Hawaii’s environmental challenges headfirst, championing community-led solutions and fighting the good fight against wastewater woes to keep our reefs resilient. Leading the charge on the Clean Water for Reefs Puakō project, Erica’s been a key player in turning the tide, ensuring both our marine buddies and communities thrive.

But Erica’s passion doesn’t stop at Puakō’s shores. She’s a major force in statewide efforts like the State Cesspool Conversion Working Group and is all about keeping our groundwater clean and clear. With Hawai’i Wai Ola, she’s pioneered the first citizen science water quality gig in Hawai’i County, proving that when it comes to protecting our oceans, Erica’s not just talking the talk—she’s swimming the swim. Her work is a testament to her belief that together, we can make a big splash in safeguarding Hawaii’s marine life and ecosystems.

• Favorite Part of the Job: Erica’s favorite part of her job is being deeply involved in local climate initiatives and empowering communities with the science and data needed for positive change.

It’s incredibly rewarding to see our efforts in improving water quality translate into tangible, positive outcomes for both the environment and the local communities who depend on it.

Erica Perez

Brian Kastl, Maui Nui Project Manager

Brian brings a world of experience to his role at CORAL, with a Master’s degree in stream restoration and sediment transport from the University of Hawai’i. His journey in conservation has taken him across the Pacific and Caribbean, where he’s applied his ridge-to-reef expertise to safeguard clean water for coral reefs. Brian’s work is deeply rooted in collaboration with local communities, developing coastal watershed management strategies that resonate with the needs and knowledge of those who call these places home.

He’s racked up some serious miles and milestones in aquatic conservation, working with big names like The Nature Conservancy, IUCN, Asian Development Bank, and even National Geographic. Whether he’s leading research dives, teaching courses, or developing projects that make a splash, Brian’s dedication to our oceans is as deep as the Mariana Trench. With his mix of serious science and a knack for collaboration, Brian’s making sure our coral reefs have a fighting chance.

• Favorite CORAL Memory: A standout moment for Brian was being on Moloka’i with the team, launching a drone to capture a traditional Hawaiian fishpond from above. Local kids gathered around, thrilled to see their heritage from a new perspective. This moment served as a powerful reminder of how ancient practices can inform today’s conservation efforts.
• Outside of Work: When he’s not leading conservation efforts, Brian finds balance and inspiration in nature, whether he’s hiking the ridges or catching waves on the reefs.

I love how highly supportive and dedicated my CORAL colleagues are!

Brian Kastl

Sarah Severino, Maui Nui Program Research Coordinator

Sarah is our go-to guru for all things marine science in Hawai’i. With a Master’s from Hawai’i Pacific University, she’s spent over a decade diving into projects that help protect our island’s natural treasures. Whether she’s studying the capacity of Hanauma Bay or assessing the impact of dredging projects, Sarah’s work is all about keeping Hawaii’s waters happy and healthy.

She’s managed big projects with NOAA, worked on conservation for marine sanctuaries, and even led studies to make sure our reefs and marine life are thriving. Recently, Sarah took the lead on a project for Mālama Pūpūkea-Waimea, proving she’s not just about the science – she’s about action and results. Sarah’s excited to blend science with community efforts at CORAL, making sure Hawai’i’s natural resources are resilient and ready for future generations.

• Favorite Part of the Job: Sarah values CORAL’s holistic view of science, which includes both traditional and community-based perspectives, making their conservation initiatives more impactful. 
• Outside of Work: Sarah enjoys snorkeling, swimming, paddle-boarding, and gardening. She’s a carnivorous plant enthusiast, with a collection that’s been growing for over 7 years.

Seeing the natural resource rehabilitation and monitoring work we support empower communities to protect their special places for future generations fills me with hope and determination.

Sarah Severino

Joy Millheim, CORAL Assistant

Meet Joy, our CORAL Assistant extraordinaire! With a career as colorful as the reefs we protect, Joy brings a wealth of experience from managing estates for ultra-high-net-worth individuals to running her own successful LLC as a household recruiter. After welcoming her daughter into the world, Joy sought a lifestyle that blended family time with her love for the ocean. Swapping the LA hustle for Hawai’i’s serene shores, she found her perfect match in CORAL. Joy is the organizational powerhouse behind our Hawai’i team, supporting Manuel and the crew with everything from scheduling to event planning. Whether it’s keeping deadlines in check or managing the minutiae of daily operations, Joy’s meticulous attention ensures our conservation efforts flow smoothly.

• Favorite CORAL Memory: Joy’s most cherished moment was touring the Kipuka Olowalu site with the entire Hawaii team.
• Outside of Work: Joy loves beach days with her family, exploring hiking trails, and losing herself in a good book. She is also passionate about rescuing pitbulls!

My favorite thing about working for CORAL is that each and every person is cherished!

Joy Millheim

Until Next Time

Big Mahalo to Manuel, Makayla, Erica, Brian, Sarah, and Joy for their determination and boundless enthusiasm. They’re not just protecting Hawaii’s reefs; they’re inspiring all of us to take better care of our blue planet. Here’s to the next 30 years of innovation, collaboration, and conservation. Together, we’re not just dreaming of a brighter, bluer future—we’re making it happen

Click here to learn more about our work in Hawaii and how you can help. Every action counts. Together we can keep the spirit of malama i ke kai alive for generations to come

The post Introducing the Team Behind Hawai’i’s Reef Conservation appeared first on Coral Reef Alliance.

Tanya is based in Tegucigalpa, Honduras but her work takes her to islands across the Western Caribbean. She uses her optimistic, collaborative, and community-based approach to take action and achieve our mission to save coral reefs. We feel so grateful that Tanya is a leader at CORAL.

Fun Facts about Tanya

What’s your favorite coral reef destination and why?

Roatan, because it’s where I got my certification; however I also have a sweet spot for Buccoo Reef in Tobago.

Buccoo Reef is home to a rich and diverse ecosystem of marine life. It boasts a wide variety of corals, sponges, and fish species, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. Adjacent to Buccoo Reef is the famous Nylon Pool, a shallow, crystal-clear, sandy area in the middle of the ocean. It’s named for its resemblance to a swimming pool due to its calm and clear waters. The Nylon Pool is a natural phenomenon formed by the interaction of the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean and is a popular spot for swimming. Many believe the water has rejuvenating properties.

What has been the most rewarding aspect of your role at CORAL in supporting the mission?

It’s witnessing the commitment and resilience of our team and local partners as we navigate challenges affecting conservation and everyday life. 

What is your favorite hobby?

Bird photography 

Describe yourself in one word.

Optimistic 

What do you want people to know about coral reefs?

Their beauty and importance go beyond life underwater; They are pillars that support ecosystems, culture, research, health, sustenance and community livelihoods and industries.

The post Meet Tanya: Environmental Engineer and Conservation Champion appeared first on Coral Reef Alliance.

Makayla has extensive experience in caring for her island home of Maui, from helping at Maui Cultural Lands and water-quality consulting for Lahaina Harbor to serving on the board of Kipuka Olowalu.  More recently, she was honored with the opportunity to participate in the Maui Navigation Team pilot process with the Department of Aquatic Resources to help inform nearshore management in Maui Nui. This is a testament to her high capacity, track record, and trusted stewardship of Mauiʻs natural resources.  We are delighted to have Makayla as a valuable member of our team.

Fun Facts about Makayla

What’s your favorite coral reef destination and why?

I am lucky enough to live on the west side of Maui, Hawaii where the mother reef of Maui Nui is located. Known for its abundant marine life, Olowalu Reef is full of turtles, manta rays, and 500-year-old corals. 

What has been the most rewarding aspect of your role at CORAL in supporting the mission?

Our strategy at CORAL to create resilient coastal communities has allowed me to work closely with the local communities I care deeply about here in Hawaii. Supporting my community and coral reefs at the same time is a dream come true!

What is the last book you read?

Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants by Robin Wall Kimmerer

How would you describe yourself in one word?

Motivated

What do you want people to know about coral reefs?

Coral reefs are not just affected by global stressors, but everyday actions too. There are a lot of things that you can do to reduce stress on our reefs like going green with your landscaping, reducing single-use plastics, and planting native plants.

The post Meet Makayla: Conservation Scientist and Native Plant Enthusiast appeared first on Coral Reef Alliance.

When she’s not rereading “Lord of the Rings” or rooting for her favorite college basketball team, Starck is scuba diving to some of the world’s most valuable coral reef ecosystems and strategizing on the best ways to protect them. 

We had a chance to sit down with Starck to learn more about her passion for saving coral reefs and how she will continue to propel CORAL forward through effective conservation strategies, investment in science, community engagement, and impactful partnerships. Here’s what she had to say: 

Q: Where does your passion for protecting our planet’s resources and ecosystems come from? Why do you care about saving coral reefs?

A: I spent a great deal of time as a child outside exploring and finding wonder in the world around me. In high school, I took my first trip to Andros in the Bahamas and I never looked back. As soon as I was able to get SCUBA certified and spend time exploring our underwater world, I realized I had to get involved in helping to protect it. We are all inextricably connected. Our fates are intertwined. I want a healthy thriving planet for my family and for us all, and that is only possible with healthy coral reefs!  

Q: Tell me about your favorite coral reef experience and how it impacted you.  

A: My favorite reef experience was probably the first time I went diving in Cozumel, Mexico. It was in the late 90’s and I remember experiencing the incredible diversity of corals and fish that I had never seen before. The drift dives there allow you to just float and watch this amazing world go by as if you are flying. I remember watching a yellowhead jawfish carefully carrying shells and small rocks in its mouth to arrange its burrow. This was also the first time I saw a parrotfish sleeping in its cocoon “sleeping bag” of mucus at night. I remember thinking how busy the coral reef was and how all of the organisms seemed to be working together in harmony, all with a purpose. It made one feel small but also somehow connected. It was the first time I felt like I understood how we are all interconnected. 

Q: What are you most excited for, when it comes to joining the CORAL team? 

A: I could not be more thrilled to join the CORAL team. The staff, board, council members, partners, donors, and volunteers are some of the most passionate and inspiring people I have ever met. Our science is innovative and important to leading us to our conservation.  Our program staff understand how to put communities first and build trust through relationships. I am excited to make a difference, our work is important, urgent, and our team is up for the challenge. Each and every team member is fabulous!  

Q: How would you describe yourself as a leader? 

A:  I have continued to learn and grow as a leader over the years. I would describe myself as someone with a high level of self-awareness that works hard to be honest, transparent, vulnerable, and build and maintain connections. I prioritize being present, participating, guiding, mentoring, and coaching our team to be efficient and effective. I enjoy pushing our strategy forward to reach our mission and ensuring that our team has the resources they need to move past any obstacle. Ensuring that everyone can come to work each day as their entire authentic selves as well as set boundaries for a healthy balance for their specific work/life situation is something I also care deeply about as a leader. 

Q: What is one thing you’d like CORAL partners and supporters to know about you? 

A: I am committed to our mission, it is deeply personal to me. I am also committed to relationships with you as partners and supporters. I come from a huge family, I have 8 siblings and 31 nieces and nephews. Family is everything to me. I look forward to getting to know all of my CORAL “family”. 

Q: After 20 years of conservation experience, what is your biggest “lesson learned?”

A: Conservation is about people and building relationships. We need to work on solutions that are built from listening to the communities that have lived and thrived there for multiple generations. They have a deep connection with their surroundings and understand the problems and solutions better than anyone. Conservation works best when we listen, learn, and work together on solutions that will benefit both people and the natural world as we are all connected. This sounds simple, yet I have seen so many projects fail by not doing this well. 

Q: How do you envision CORAL’s programs evolving? Can you share your plans to amplify our conservation work? 

A: As the staff, board, partners, volunteers, and I continue to move forward, we will be looking for opportunities to take the lessons we have learned and drive action. Our strategy of working at the local, regional, and global scale will remain important. We have learned quite a bit about what works and doesn’t work in coral reef conservation in communities and our science is giving us more information and planning tools. Moving forward, we will need to focus even more on the “alliance” in our name to ensure that what we have learned that works is being utilized in as many places as possible through partnerships and coalitions. 

The post Get to Know Heather Starck, CORAL’s New Executive Director appeared first on Coral Reef Alliance.

Q: Where does your passion for the ocean come from?

A: I’ve loved the ocean since my childhood. I grew up in the Philippines, a beautiful archipelago, and the island communities there depend a lot on marine resources and the ocean. Growing up, my family would go to the ocean for peace and relaxation and that has stayed with me throughout my life. As a teenager, I learned to sail in the Chesapeake Bay. And as an adult, I was fortunate enough to sail on Hokule‘a as crew and science specialist for the Polynesian Voyaging Society’s Worldwide Voyage. When I’m in the ocean, I feel calm and really connected with life and all its wonders. I just find the ocean to be a source of life and inspiration, and I count myself very lucky to have built a meaningful career based on conservation and getting to work with communities to protect our oceans.

Q: Why do you care so much about protecting coral reefs?

A: My parents taught me how to care for coral reefs and respect people and nature. They introduced me to the wonders of this world. For all their importance and beauty, however, coral reefs are often unseen and undervalued even though they are immensely important to humanity. A lot of our food, medicines and recreation come from the ocean. Working across the Pacific with many communities, from Fiji to the Philippines and Indonesia, and here in Hawai‘i, I’ve really learned how important coral reefs are to people’s wellbeing—not just for physical sustenance, but for cultural and spiritual wellbeing, too.

Q: Is there anything specifically that spurred this passion for reefs?

A: Across the Pacific, there’s this caring for the ocean like it’s family, and I see that especially strong here in Hawai‘i. Bioculturally, coral reefs are foundational in Hawai‘i. There is an ‘Ōlelo no‘eau, or Hawaiian proverb, that says He po‘i kai uli, kai ko‘o, a‘ohe hina puko‘a, which means “though the sea be deep and rough, the coral rock remains standing.” It’s often said of people or communities who remain calm and persevere through difficult times. And to me, this resilience describes the communities in Hawai‘i that continue traditions of adaptive management and caring for reefs so that they can continue to rely on and take care of their families. There is this beautiful reciprocity between people and the ocean and that inspires me to help carry out our mission at CORAL.

Q: Can you tell me about the first time you ever saw a coral reef?

A: When I was a young boy, my father used to take me diving with him. I’d stay on the boat and watch his bubbles come to the surface and I’d follow him. And as we got to shallower water, I still remember it very vividly, I’d start to see the rainbow colors and the riot of marine life teeming in wondrous abundance. And that magic, that wonder, has stayed with me, and I’ll never forget it. I hope we can save reefs so that my children, and my grandchildren, get to experience that same wonder that I experienced as a young boy.

Q: What’s at stake? What happens if we don’t do this work?

A: Coral reefs provide habitat and shelter for all kinds of marine life—per square inch, they are one of the highest biodiversity habitats in the world. And they provide humanity with a lot of medicines and food for over ½ billion people around the world. In Hawai‘i, they protect our coastal areas to the tune of $836 million annually. Without coral reefs, our economy would be a lot more vulnerable. In terms of livelihoods, and fishermen feeding the families, or local businesses and tourism operations that rely on coral reef ecosystems—I’ve seen this dependency on coral reef health play out countless of times across many countries. Coral reefs keep many island economies thriving. It’s really in our best interest to keep them healthy. As the Hawaiian proverb goes, E ola ke kai, E ola kakou—as the ocean thrives, so do we.

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Recently, we welcomed Dr. Antonella Rivera to the Coral Reef Alliance family. Antonella is a Honduran biologist born in the city of Tegucigalpa and will work with local communities on fisheries reform and management efforts along the North Coast and Tela.

Antonella first became aware of the profound benefits coral reefs have on the sustainability of coastal communities while diving off the coast of Honduras in the Bay Islands. This new appreciation for reefs motivated her to earn a Ph.D. in marine socio-ecological systems from the University of Oviedo. Her multidisciplinary research background ranges from analyzing the management implications of larval dispersal to the use of perception research to assess the adaptive capacity of coastal communities. Through her studies and work experience with fishing communities in Europe and Latin America, she has become a firm believer in the need for bottom-up, holistic and adaptive conservation strategies. We are excited to have Antonella working in Honduras to protect the largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere, the Mesoamerican Reef.

Fun Facts about Antonella:

What’s your favorite coral reef destination and why?

My favorite coral reef destination is Guanaja in the Bay Islands (Honduras) because of the reef formations and underwater caves making you feel like you are part of the reef and not just an observer.

If you could be any reef animal, what would you be and why?

I would be a mantis shrimp; besides being cool looking, the mantis shrimp has sixteen types of color-receptive cones in their eyes, which allows them to see a variety of colors undetected by the human eye. I would love to see the reef through their eyes!

What was the last book you read?

The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss

What’s one word to describe you?

Determined

Why are you excited about working for CORAL?

I am thrilled to be working for CORAL because I admire the multidisciplinary and participative approach CORAL employs in coral reef management and conservation.

The post Meet Antonella: Biologist, Diver and Fantasy-Geek appeared first on Coral Reef Alliance.