Our conservation efforts around the world are supported by a dedicated, brilliant team.
Senior Leadership
Heather Starck
Executive 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
Dr. Brian Kastl
Maui Nui Project Manager
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 Marketing Director
Manuel Mejia
Associate Director of Partnerships & Community Engagement
Maria McDonough
Senior Strategic Partnerships Coordinator
Allison Coleman
Grants Manager
Kathryn Kelly
Marketing Coordinator
Heather Rowan
Development Operations Coordinator
Administration
Kristi Jones
Senior Accountant General Ledger and Grants
Inside Coral
The Diverse Wildlife of Coral Reef Ecosystems
Beneath the ocean’s surface, where sunlight dances through crystal-clear water, coral reefs pulse with life. These underwater cities are home to a stunning array of creatures—each playing a role in a delicate, interwoven web. From the smallest invertebrates hiding within coral branches to the top predators patrolling the open blue, every species tells a story… Continue Reading →
Meet Andrea – Marine Scientist and Conservationist
Meet Andrea Rivera-Sosa, Project and Outreach Manager at the Coral Reef Alliance! Andrea has dedicated her life to protecting the vibrant yet fragile ecosystems of coral reefs. Her early curiosities about the natural world evolved into a lifelong passion. Today, she leverages her extensive experience to lead global initiatives in coral conservation, blending innovative science,… Continue Reading →
The Surprising Connections Between Coral Reefs and Human Health
When you think about coral reefs, what comes to mind? Vibrant underwater worlds full of colorful fish? Perhaps the sunset over a tropical lagoon? What might not seem so obvious is the intricate connection between coral reefs and human health. We’re more connected than you might think. To kick off the new year, let’s dive… Continue Reading →
The Ripple Effect – How Coral Reefs Connect Us All
Coral reefs are often celebrated for their uniqueness and bustling marine life, but their true wonder lies in how deeply they connect to nearly every aspect of our lives. These intricate underwater ecosystems stretch far beyond the tropics, influencing global systems, economies, and even the simple joys of our daily routines. Introducing The Ripple Effect,… Continue Reading →
2024 Greatest Hits of the CORAL Blog
2024 has been a remarkable year for coral reef conservation, with educational, informational, and inspirational stories taking center stage. Because of people like YOU, we’re able to bring these stories to life and make a profound impact on coral reefs around the world, as well as the communities that depend on them. Below are our… Continue Reading →
Turning the Tide for Coral Reefs in 2025
Where Your Donation Will Go in 2025 We’re beyond excited to dive into another year of protecting our ocean’s gems—and it’s all thanks to you! Every donation you make fuels our mission to keep coral reefs thriving and full of life. In 2025, we’re kicking things up a notch with a strategic focus to Assess,… Continue Reading →
Dive into #GivingTuesday with CORAL
Join us in celebrating #GivingTuesday, a day of global giving! This year, we’re celebrating 30 years of impact at CORAL—a powerful reminder of what’s possible when people unite to protect coral reefs and the communities that rely on them. But as we reflect on this milestone, we’re reminded that the challenges reefs face today demand… Continue Reading →
Protecting Coral Reefs Through Community-Led Patrolling
In coastal communities around the world, local leaders are on the front lines of protecting coral reefs. Drawing from their deep knowledge of the area, these communities play a crucial role in watching over our marine ecosystems. By prioritizing effective marine protections and community-led management, we’re helping local leaders create lasting impacts that support coral… Continue Reading →