June 2011 E-Current

On World Oceans Day, I am thrilled to share some exciting news with you that will no doubt mean great things for our planet's coral reefs: CORAL has selected a new executive director to lead our organization into the future. We are delighted to welcome Dr. Michael Webster to the CORAL team.

Michael comes to us from the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, where he managed an impressive portfolio of grants focused on the conservation, management, and science of Pacific aquatic ecosystems. He previously coordinated scientific activities for the Partnership for Interdisciplinary Studies of Coastal Oceans (PISCO) and earned his doctorate in coral reef fish ecology. Michael's distinguished background in both coral reef science and conservation grants management will be invaluable to CORAL, and I encourage you to visit our press release to learn more about Michael's professional experience.

I feel honored to have helped lead CORAL on an interim basis during the last year, and I am proud of our many accomplishments during this time. At the same time, I am extremely pleased to hand over the reins to Michael later this summer, as I am confident that he will take CORAL to new heights.

Cheers,

Rick MacPherson

Interim Executive Director

Conservation Programs Director