The Alaska SeaLife Center Board of Directors announces that Dr. Wei Ying Wong will be stepping down as President and CEO to accept a new leadership role in conservation and research with the Singapore Oceanarium at Resorts World Sentosa. Her last day will be December 4, 2026. 

The Board wishes Dr. Wong the very best in this next chapter and extends its sincere gratitude for her dedicated service to the Alaska SeaLife Center.

“Dr. Wong took the helm of the Alaska SeaLife Center at a pivotal time. She successfully guided the organization through a period of rapid change in the funding environment and led the Board and institution in developing a visionary strategic framework that ensures generational impact,” said ASLC Board Chair Rachel Bunnell.

“On behalf of the Board, I want to thank Dr. Wong for her dedication, vision, and service to the Alaska SeaLife Center. We are grateful for the progress made under her leadership and wish her continued success in her next role.” 

Dr. Wong’s appointment to an international leadership role in Singapore is also a reflection of the caliber of talent and expertise cultivated at the Alaska SeaLife Center and the reach of its work in marine conservation, research, education, and animal care. The Board is proud that the experience and leadership developed at ASLC are being recognized on an international stage. 

“We are delighted to welcome Dr. Wong to Singapore Oceanarium. Her extensive experience in marine science, conservation, and education will strengthen our efforts to deliver meaningful conservation impact, advance scientific research, and inspire public engagement in marine conservation across Southeast Asia,” said Grant Abel, Assistant Vice President of Life Sciences, Singapore Oceanarium.

“We are proud to see Dr. Wong take on this new opportunity and to see the experience she gained at ASLC contribute to conservation and research on an international stage,” said Bunnell. “We also look forward to building on the relationships and partnerships that connect the Alaska SeaLife Center with organizations around the world. We hope this transition opens another chapter in ASLC’s commitment to international collaboration and the exchange of knowledge, expertise, and ideas in service of ocean conservation.” 

“It has been a privilege to lead the Alaska SeaLife Center and to work alongside such a talented and dedicated team,” said Dr. Wong. “I am proud of what we have accomplished together and grateful for the opportunity to have served this remarkable organization. I am confident in ASLC’s future and look forward to seeing its continued impact in Alaska and beyond.” 

The Board is prioritizing a thoughtful and thorough search for the right leader to guide the Center through its next stage of growth and development. More information about the search process be forthcoming as we move into the next phase of this important work.