Our conservation efforts around the world are supported by a dedicated, brilliant team.
Senior Leadership
Heather Starck
Executive Director
Kristin Sherwood
Strategic Impact Director
Dr. Helen Fox
Conservation Science Director
Jenny Myton
Conservation Program Director
Mandy Norman
Development and Marketing Director
Kristy Ives
Director of Finance and Operations
Western Caribbean Program Staff
Tanya Amaya
Regional Program Director
Mayra Johnson
Administrator Assistant
Paolo Guardiola
North Coast Principal Program Coordinator
Sheyla Maldonado
Finance and Operations Manager, Western Caribbean
Mayra Nuñez
Research Assistant
Pamela Ortega
Bay Islands Program Manager
Emilio Pacheco
Accountant
Javier Pizaña-Alonso
Program Manager
Dr. Antonella Rivera
Principal Investigator
Julio San Martin Chicas
North Coast Program Manager
Monica Urrutia
Community Scientist
Greissy Villatoro
Community Scientist
Ana Bessy Valdés Martínez
Community Scientist
Hawaiʻi Program Staff
Erica Perez
Senior Manager and Head of Sanitation, Hawai'i
Makayla Rickard
Maui Nui Program Manager
Sarah Severino
Maui Nui Program Research Coordinator
Mihana Ho
Maui Nui Field Tech
Conservation Science Staff
Ben Charo
Program Coordinator
Dr. Andrea Rivera-Sosa
Project and Outreach Manager
Development and Marketing Staff
Kate Beebe
Associate Director of Brand and Communications
Manuel Mejia
Associate Director of Partnerships & Community Engagement
Maria McDonough
Senior Strategic Partnerships Coordinator
Allison Coleman
Grants Manager
Kathryn Kelly
Growth Marketing Manager
Heather Rowan
Development Operations Coordinator
Administration
Kristi Jones
Senior Accountant General Ledger and Grants
Inside Coral
A Bold New Plan for Coral Reef Conservation
Coral reefs are at a tipping point—and so is the movement to save them. Today, the Coral Reef Alliance (CORAL) is proud to launch our new 2025-2030 strategic plan: a bold, actionable strategy designed to ensure tomorrow’s reefs are stronger, more resilient, and better protected than ever before. This plan is our commitment. One that… Continue Reading →
Turning the Tide on Water Pollution in the Mesoamerican Reef
At the Coral Reef Alliance (CORAL), we believe healthy coral reefs start on land. Our work on water quality across the Mesoamerican Reef (MAR) region—spanning Belize, Honduras, and Mexico—shows how science, community collaboration, and practical solutions can protect these ecosystems and the communities that rely on them. Why Water Quality Matters for Coral Reefs Clean… Continue Reading →
Medicinal Cures Within Coral Reefs
Coral reefs support about 25% of all marine life, and their significance stretches far beyond their beauty. Increasingly, these vibrant ecosystems are being recognized as a vital source of potential medical breakthroughs. Researchers have found that coral reefs are a treasure trove of complex substances that offer promise in fighting a range of ailments, from… Continue Reading →
Exploring Reef Resilience Through the Science of Coral Adaptation
Coral reefs are some of the most extraordinary ecosystems on the planet. They support a quarter of all marine life, provide food and income to over a billion people, and offer a natural barrier protecting coastlines from storms and erosion. But these vibrant underwater cities face increasing pressure from climate change, overfishing, pollution, and more.… Continue Reading →
5 Easy, Impactful Ways to Help Coral Reefs from Anywhere
Every April, Earth Month invites us to celebrate the planet—and take meaningful action to protect it. Whether planting a tree, picking up trash, or switching to a reusable water bottle, every small step adds up. But here’s a lesser-known truth: if you care about the planet, you should care about coral reefs. Why Coral Reefs… Continue Reading →
CORAL is Expanding into New Regions
The Coral Reef Alliance (CORAL) is stepping into a new era—one defined by strategic growth, stronger partnerships, and bigger impact. As corals face mounting threats, we’re scaling up our efforts to ensure reefs around the world not only survive but thrive. And we’re doing it quickly. Why Growth Matters for Coral Reefs Coral reefs support… Continue Reading →
Meet Kristin – CORAL’s New Strategic Impact Director
Readers, you’re in for a treat. As the Coral Reef Alliance (CORAL) embarks on our next big chapter of ambitious growth, we are beyond excited to introduce a brand new role to our organization. This new director sits on the executive leadership team and is hyperfocused on strategic impact. Simply put, we’re doubling down for… Continue Reading →
The Hidden Costs of Wastewater Inaction
We’re committed to protecting the world’s coral reefs, which are home to 25% of the world’s marine species and support the livelihoods of millions across the globe. Our work is no easy task. Reefs face a multitude of threats, from overfishing to coral bleaching caused by climate change. But you might be surprised to learn… Continue Reading →