Neisha joined the Executive Team at Alaska Sealife Center in June 2023. She is a certified professional in Human Resources and DEIJ Practitioner with over 10 years' experience practicing human resources in the public, non-profit, and education industries.  Throughout her career, she's found her passion in building HR infrastructure while embedding equity and inclusion into people and organizational culture strategies. By starting her journey in HR compliance and facilitating resolutions to employment discrimination complaints, she brings a unique perspective as an HR and DEIJ strategist within corporate structures. Neisha serves as Board President for New Life Development and as a Board Member for Best Beginnings. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and enjoys participating in local community service activities with her daughter. 

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Visiting School Groups 1. Schedule your trip well in advance. When scheduling your visit, have several alternate dates selected in case your intended date is already taken. 2. Have 1 chaperone for every 10 students. We ask that you bring 1 chaperone for every 10 students. Assign groups of students to chaperones before your visit. Chaperones should keep their students with them at all times in the Center. Chaperones will actively lead groups around the facility and participate in lessons. Please have each chaperone read our Chaperone Letter for some tips to help them guide the students' learning in a positive way. 3. Make visible nametags. We have found that calling students by name makes teaching much more effective. Please make large nametags to be worn by students. Have fun with it! For example, have students create their own sea animal name tags. 4. Arrive at scheduled time. We ask that you allow time in your traveling schedule to arrive a few minutes before your scheduled program time. This will ensure that your students get sufficient time for exploration and programs. Before unloading the bus, please check in with the front desk to let us know that your group has arrived. If you think there is a possibility of being late, please contact us at 907-224-6306 to let us know. 5. Have students ready to give attention to our Educators. Upon your arrival we will go over the rules of the Center and our expectations of your group. We will then give instructions for the overall itinerary of your group's visit. We look forward to seeing you !  

    Day Programs Spend a day in our underwater world! Our staff will greet your group with an orientation and start the students on a self-guided tour of the Alaska SeaLife Center. After an hour of exploring the aquarium, your group will come together for one educational program of your choice.  Minimum of 12 paying participants; two adult chaperones are free per reservation; smaller groups are welcome for a flat rate - please see pricing structure below. Program cost includes admission to the Alaska SeaLife Center. Day Programs are available year-round and must be booked at least 30 days in advance. Pricing We have a tiered pricing structure for on site programs to incorporate discounts for tax exempt and educational organizations. Groups larger than 35 participants may be divided for education programs based on program choice and space available, please contact education@alaskasealife.org for details. For all Day Programs, a second Education Program on the same day can be requested for an additional $25 per person.  Private parties, adult groups, for-profit organizations $60 per person, adults and children are the same rate Minimum price of $720 includes up to 14 participants (12 paying participants, 2 free chaperones).  Schools, non-profit organizations, education organizations, homeschool organizations through school districts. $50 per person, adults and children are the same rate Minimum price of $600 includes up to 14 participants (12 paying participants, 2 free chaperones). Title I Schools $40 per person, adults and children are the same rate Minimum price of $480 includes up to 14 participants (12 paying participants, 2 free chaperones). Deposits - A deposit of $200 is required within 30 days of confirmation to secure your reservation. The remaining balance will be invoiced within 7 days of your program. Payment in full is due within 30 days of invoicing. Request a Day Program To request a Day Program, please click the button below and complete the Day Program Reservation Form. We will confirm reservations in the order we receive them, please allow 7 days for confirmation. Program Choices for Day Programs   Program Name   Recommended     Grade Levels    Program Description Seashore Survivors K-2 Become an intertidal animal and discover what it takes to live in this challenging habitat. Learn about the adaptations of various animals we encounter at the nearshore through fun dress up and sticker activities! Available for Nocturnes and Day Programs Beaks, Bubbles, & Burrows K-3 Discover the many unique adaptations that allow Alaska’s beautiful diving seabirds to inhabit both sea and sky. Become a seabird traveling from ocean to coast, then build your very own clay puffin to take home! Available for Nocturnes, Day Programs, Distance Learning, and Outreach Marine Mammal Adaptations K-5 Explore the variety of adaptations used by seals, sea lions, and sea otters found in Alaska’s waters. Engage with biofacts, videos and build your own clay seal to take home! Available for Nocturnes, Day Programs, Distance Learning, and Outreach Terrific Alaskan Tidepool Travels 1-5 Take a walk through the Alaskan intertidal zone and meet Alaska’s tough and mysterious local invertebrates. Discover how intertidal animals survive, adapt, and thrive. Available for Nocturnes, Day Programs, Distance Learning, and Outreach Ocean Animal Perceptions 1-5 Can you “see” without eyes? Participants will discover the amazing adaptations of various ocean animals through “senses-on” activities. Available for Nocturnes and Day Programs There & Back Again: A Salmon's Tale 3-6 In this role-play adventure, participants experience the life cycle of salmon first-hand, from rivers and streams to the ocean, and back again! Available for Nocturnes and Day Programs, and Outreach Bioluminescence 3-8 Discover the mysterious animals that inhabit the ocean’s depths. Investigate the amazing adaptations of light-producers in the deep ocean and observe actual bioluminescence! Available for Nocturnes and Day Programs, and Outreach (Outreach dependent on space and logistics) Eat or Be Eaten in Alaska 4-6 Explore the complexity of food webs and ecosystems through an interactive exploration of some of Alaska’s most iconic animals and ecosystems. Available for Nocturnes, Day Programs, Distance Learning, and Outreach Cephalopods: The Squid Dissection 4-12 Dive into the wonderful world of cephalopods, discover their many unique adaptations and fascinating anatomy through a squid dissection! (Please contact us about squid availability. Observation-only sessions are also an option.) Available for Nocturnes, Day Programs, Distance Learning, and Outreach (Outreach dependent on space and logistics) Scientists in Action: Veterinarian 6-12 Gain insight into the Alaska SeaLife Center’s Wildlife Response program. Learn how veterinarians care for stranded or injured animals as students work in groups to care for “patients” in this hands-on program. Available for Nocturnes and Day Programs Clues from the Coast: Studying Endangered Steller Sea Lions 6-12 Learn how scientists at the Alaska SeaLife Center study the endangered Steller sea lions of Chiswell Island. Search through scat samples and remotely recorded video footage to piece together their story and changing population. Practice research techniques like census counting, scat analysis, and identifying individuals! Available for Nocturnes, Day Programs, Distance Learning, and Outreach  

Nocturne Programs   Nocturne Programs Enjoy an overnight adventure at the Alaska SeaLife Center! Students will spend the evening expanding observation skills and participating in hands-on marine science programs. At night they’ll fall asleep with the seabirds, sea lions and seals. Each Nocturne Sleepover includes dinner, a light breakfast, plenty of time to explore the Alaska SeaLife Center, and two educational programs. Nocturnes start at 5:00pm and last until 9:00am the next morning.  Minimum of 16 paying participants; two adult chaperones are free per reservation; smaller groups are welcome for a flat rate - please see pricing structure below. Program cost includes admission, education programs, dinner, and breakfast. Nocturnes are available year-round and must be booked at least 30 days in advance. Dates may be reserved a maximum of one year in advance, prices and programs are subject to change. IMPORTANT: No more than 80 people total in the sleeping area! This is a fire code restriction, any additional guests will be required to find alternate accommodations for the night. Children under 4 are not permitted to stay overnight at the Alaska SeaLife Center for safety reasons. Pricing We have a tiered pricing structure for on site programs to incorporate discounts for tax exempt and educational organizations. Groups larger than 35 participants may be divided for education programs based on program choice and space available, please contact education@alaskasealife.org for details. Private parties, adult groups, for-profit organizations $100 per person, adults and children are the same rate Minimum price of $1600 includes up to 18 participants (16 paying participants, 2 free chaperones).  Schools, non-profit organizations, education organizations, homeschool organizations through school districts. $90 per person, adults and children are the same rate Minimum price of $1440 includes up to 18 participants (16 paying participants, 2 free chaperones). Title I Schools $80 per person, adults and children are the same rate Minimum price of $1280 includes up to 18 participants (16 paying participants, 2 free chaperones). A $600 deposit is required within 30 days of booking - or by January 15 for spring Nocturnes. Nocturnes are fully refundable until 60 days prior to the program. A $200 cancellation fee may be incurred if cancelling within 60 days of the Nocturne.  Request a Nocturne Program To request a Nocturne, please click belwo to complete the Nocturne Reservation Form. We will confirm reservations in the order we receive them, please allow 7 days for confirmation.   Program Choices for Nocturne Programs   Program Name   Recommended     Grade Levels    Program Description Seashore Survivors K-2 Become an intertidal animal and discover what it takes to live in this challenging habitat. Learn about the adaptations of various animals we encounter at the nearshore through fun dress up and sticker activities! Available for Nocturnes and Day Programs Beaks, Bubbles, & Burrows K-3 Discover the many unique adaptations that allow Alaska’s beautiful diving seabirds to inhabit both sea and sky. Become a seabird traveling from ocean to coast, then build your very own clay puffin to take home! Available for Nocturnes, Day Programs, Distance Learning, and Outreach Marine Mammal Adaptations K-5 Explore the variety of adaptations used by seals, sea lions, and sea otters found in Alaska’s waters. Engage with biofacts, videos and build your own clay seal to take home! Available for Nocturnes, Day Programs, Distance Learning, and Outreach Terrific Alaskan Tidepool Travels 1-5 Take a walk through the Alaskan intertidal zone and meet Alaska’s tough and mysterious local invertebrates. Discover how intertidal animals survive, adapt, and thrive. Available for Nocturnes, Day Programs, Distance Learning, and Outreach Ocean Animal Perceptions 1-5 Can you “see” without eyes? Participants will discover the amazing adaptations of various ocean animals through “senses-on” activities. Available for Nocturnes and Day Programs There & Back Again: A Salmon's Tale 3-6 In this role-play adventure, participants experience the life cycle of salmon first-hand, from rivers and streams to the ocean, and back again! Available for Nocturnes and Day Programs, and Outreach Bioluminescence 3-8 Discover the mysterious animals that inhabit the ocean’s depths. Investigate the amazing adaptations of light-producers in the deep ocean and observe actual bioluminescence! Available for Nocturnes and Day Programs, and Outreach (Outreach dependent on space and logistics) Eat or Be Eaten in Alaska 4-6 Explore the complexity of food webs and ecosystems through an interactive exploration of some of Alaska’s most iconic animals and ecosystems. Available for Nocturnes, Day Programs, Distance Learning, and Outreach Cephalopods: The Squid Dissection 4-12 Dive into the wonderful world of cephalopods, discover their many unique adaptations and fascinating anatomy through a squid dissection! (Please contact us about squid availability. Observation-only sessions are also an option.) Available for Nocturnes, Day Programs, Distance Learning, and Outreach (Outreach dependent on space and logistics) Scientists in Action: Veterinarian 6-12 Gain insight into the Alaska SeaLife Center’s Wildlife Response program. Learn how veterinarians care for stranded or injured animals as students work in groups to care for “patients” in this hands-on program. Available for Nocturnes and Day Programs Clues from the Coast: Studying Endangered Steller Sea Lions 6-12 Learn how scientists at the Alaska SeaLife Center study the endangered Steller sea lions of Chiswell Island. Search through scat samples and remotely recorded video footage to piece together their story and changing population. Practice research techniques like census counting, scat analysis, and identifying individuals! Available for Nocturnes, Day Programs, Distance Learning, and Outreach  

SubPage 1 Column with Masthead Title Header 1 Header 2 Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit. Nam eu nulla. Donem. Integer in ante. Sed posuere ligula rhoncus erat. Fusce uritae sapina dui, sollicitudringilla. Fusce dapibus odio in est. Nunc eges tas mauris ac leo. Nuheh ellam regardy ledrodo orci. - Link Style   Morbi volutpat leo in ligula. Integer vel magna. Quisque ut magna et nisi bibendum sagittis. Fusce elit ligula, sodales sit amet, tincidunt in, ullamcorper condimentum, lectus. Aliquam ut massa. Suspendisse dolor. Cras quam augue, consectetuer id, auctor ut, tincidunt a, velit.    Donec tempus, urna a congue ultrices, lacus magna convallis nulla, non ultrices metus justo et purus. In leo lorem, dapibus lit ac semper iaculis, mi odio dignissim diam, id dapibus eros metus id nisi. Nulla vitae sapien. Nulla ligula. Cum sociis natoque penatibus et magnis dis parturient montes, nascetur ridiculus mus. Curabitur non nisl id ante egestas dapibus.    Quisque euismod tortor sed nulla. Nunc dapibus, nisi et iaculis feugiat, leo ipsum venenatis enim, a nonummy magna ante vitae diam. Proin sapien. Duis eleifend. Praesent tempor velit molestie neque. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit. Sed mollis justo eget augue. Donec tempus, urna a congue ultrices, lacus magna convallis nulla, non ultrices metus justo et purus. In leo lorem, dapibus lit ac semper iaculis, mi odio dignissim diam, id dapibus eros metus id nisi. Nulla vitae sapien. Nulla ligula. Cum sociis natoque penatibus et magnis dis parturient montes, nascetur ridiculus mus. Curabitur non nisl id ante egestas dapibus. Sed mollis ornare ipsum. In id enim dignissim erat viverra vulputate.   Aenean sit amet massa. Nam mattis enim ut elit. Phasellus pretium ornare lorem. Maecenas non orci. Fusce cursus eleifend mi. Suspendisse egestas, sem id pellentesque nonummy, lacus odio sceleris. In congue sem eget purus consequat consectetuer. Sed euismod erat eget neque. Proin turpis. Sed id nulla vel magna consectetuer laoreet. Aenean pulvinar scelerisque erat. Quisque eget augue vel risus convallis congue. Praesent tortor nunc, ultricies a, rutrum vitae, venenatis at, turpis. Class aptent taciti sociosqu ad litora torquent per conubia nostra, per inceptos hymenaeos.    Header 4 Curabitur accumsan venenatis diam.    In hac habitasse platea dictumst. Cras faucibus ligula in leo. Aenean mattis, felis mollis vestibulum semper, velit tortor semper dui, sed interdum arcu magna eu lectus. Nunc nibh neque, vestibulum eu, ornare ut, congue in, est. Sed consequat leo.  Hedaer 6 Donec et quam commodo magna dapibus placerat. Aenean condimentum.   

SubPage 1 Column with Masthead Title Header 1 Header 2 Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit. Nam eu nulla. Donem. Integer in ante. Sed posuere ligula rhoncus erat. Fusce uritae sapina dui, sollicitudringilla. Fusce dapibus odio in est. Nunc eges tas mauris ac leo. Nuheh ellam regardy ledrodo orci. - Link Style   Morbi volutpat leo in ligula. Integer vel magna. Quisque ut magna et nisi bibendum sagittis. Fusce elit ligula, sodales sit amet, tincidunt in, ullamcorper condimentum, lectus. Aliquam ut massa. Suspendisse dolor. Cras quam augue, consectetuer id, auctor ut, tincidunt a, velit.    Donec tempus, urna a congue ultrices, lacus magna convallis nulla, non ultrices metus justo et purus. In leo lorem, dapibus lit ac semper iaculis, mi odio dignissim diam, id dapibus eros metus id nisi. Nulla vitae sapien. Nulla ligula. Cum sociis natoque penatibus et magnis dis parturient montes, nascetur ridiculus mus. Curabitur non nisl id ante egestas dapibus.    Quisque euismod tortor sed nulla. Nunc dapibus, nisi et iaculis feugiat, leo ipsum venenatis enim, a nonummy magna ante vitae diam. Proin sapien. Duis eleifend. Praesent tempor velit molestie neque. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit. Sed mollis justo eget augue. Donec tempus, urna a congue ultrices, lacus magna convallis nulla, non ultrices metus justo et purus. In leo lorem, dapibus lit ac semper iaculis, mi odio dignissim diam, id dapibus eros metus id nisi. Nulla vitae sapien. Nulla ligula. Cum sociis natoque penatibus et magnis dis parturient montes, nascetur ridiculus mus. Curabitur non nisl id ante egestas dapibus. Sed mollis ornare ipsum. In id enim dignissim erat viverra vulputate.   Aenean sit amet massa. Nam mattis enim ut elit. Phasellus pretium ornare lorem. Maecenas non orci. Fusce cursus eleifend mi. Suspendisse egestas, sem id pellentesque nonummy, lacus odio sceleris. In congue sem eget purus consequat consectetuer. Sed euismod erat eget neque. Proin turpis. Sed id nulla vel magna consectetuer laoreet. Aenean pulvinar scelerisque erat. Quisque eget augue vel risus convallis congue. Praesent tortor nunc, ultricies a, rutrum vitae, venenatis at, turpis. Class aptent taciti sociosqu ad litora torquent per conubia nostra, per inceptos hymenaeos.    Header 4 Curabitur accumsan venenatis diam.    In hac habitasse platea dictumst. Cras faucibus ligula in leo. Aenean mattis, felis mollis vestibulum semper, velit tortor semper dui, sed interdum arcu magna eu lectus. Nunc nibh neque, vestibulum eu, ornare ut, congue in, est. Sed consequat leo.  Hedaer 6 Donec et quam commodo magna dapibus placerat. Aenean condimentum.   

Seward, Alaska (July 28, 2016) – The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) is hosting its 18th Annual 5K Wildlife Rescue Run & Walk on Saturday, August 6. The annual family-friendly race is a fundraiser to support the Center’s Wildlife Response Program. This has been another busy year for the Program, which has admitted four harbor seals, one spotted seal, four sea otters, and a spectacled eider to date. The 5K race route follows a generally flat course along the scenic Seward waterfront and is open to walkers and runners of all levels. Race participants are invited to register online via the link found at www.alaskasealife.org. Race bibs will be available for pick up in the Alaska SeaLife Center atrium on August 6 between 10:00 am and 11:30 am. All participants will begin the race at 12:00 pm. The presentation of race awards and drawings for the door prizes and travel raffle will be held at 2:00 pm. Race participants are eligible for an array of door prizes this year, for which they must be present at the drawing to win. Door prizes include:   2016 Lost Lake Run entry - Two ASLC Wildlife Rescue Racers will win entries for the upcoming Lost Lake Run to be held Aug. 27. Registration for this limited entry cross-country run is closed, so this is a special opportunity to enter. See www.lostlakerun.comfor more information about the race. (2 prizes drawn, $100 value each) $50 gift certificate to Ms. Gene's Place, Seward's own Victorian Lounge in the Hotel Seward. (2 prizes drawn, $50 value each)  Alaska SeaLife Center Family Membership - One year family membership includes free family admission, special programming and monthly educational members-only newsletters. (2 prizes drawn, $125 value each) Choice of an Octopus, Puffin or Marine Mammal Encounter for 2 - Go behind the scenes with a member of the ASLC animal care staff to learn more about these amazing animals and participate in a feeding or enrichment session. (1 prize drawn, $149.90 value) Otter Encounter Tour for 2 - Go behind the scenes with members of the ASLC animal care team to observe a sea otter feeding or enrichment session and learn more about these adorable animals. (1 prize drawn, $49.90 value) Skinny Raven gift cards - Get outfitted for town or trail at Alaska's best resource for running shoes, casual shoes and apparel. (2 prizes drawn, $50 each value) In addition, the raffle drawing for two unrestricted Alaska Airline tickets—valued at $2,500—will be held at the event. Tickets are available for $25 each or five for $100 at the ASLC ticketing counter until 2:00 pm August 6. Raffle ticket holders do not need to be present to win. This year, supply donations for the Wildlife Response Program will be accepted at the Wildlife Rescue Run & Walk. New or gently used items utilized to support the rescue and rehabilitation of marine wildlife have been requested, and a container will be available at the race to collect donated items. The list of items being accepted is below. New items needed:  Atlas vinyl non-insulated orange gloves (all sizes)                 Whiteboard Expo markers (any size/color) Cutting boards (heavy duty plastic only - any size) Ziploc Big Bag (gallon size only) Cut gloves by Kinco (all sizes) Scrub brushes or scrub pads with handles Unflavored Pedialyte Shampoo, conditioner, body wash (any brand)  Heavy duty canvas duffel bag New or gently used items needed: Glass Pyrex measuring cups (1-2 cups) Bath or beach towels Traffic cones (12 – 36”) Cake pans (used to make ice molds for enrichment - any size and shape) Mortar and pestle Pill crushers and cutters Orange Pill bottles (labels removed and empty) Rubbermaid containers (heavy duty, microwave safe) Ziploc "Twist n Lock" (small or medium sizes) Silverware Premier Wildlife Rescue Run & Walk sponsors include Shell and ConocoPhillips. Other sponsors include Hub International; Nautilus Impact Investing; Seward Parks & Recreation Department; GCI; Alaska Serigraphics; Metco; Dr. Michael P. Moriarty, DDS; Skinny Raven Sports; Petro 49, Inc.; J & R Fisheries and Kruzof Fisheries, LLC; Seward Properties; Hotel Seward; and Edward Jones. Pacific harbor seal pup PV1601 is one of many ASLC Wildlife Response Program success stories. Found stranded in April 2016, in Homer, Alaska, this male pup is the youngest seal to date to have been brought into the Program. Estimated to have been born a month premature, he arrived soon after birth and underweight. Under the expert care and close monitoring of ASLC staff, This pup transitioned to eating and catching live fish and gained the required weight, strength, and skills to be released back to the ocean in just over two months. About the ASLC: Opened in 1998, the Alaska SeaLife Center is a private, non-profit research institution and public aquarium. ASLC generates and shares scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems, and is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.  The Alaska SeaLife Center operates a 24-hour hotline for the public to report stranded marine mammals or birds, and encourages people who have found a stranded or sick marine animal to avoid touching or approaching the animal.   Call first: 1-888-774-SEAL.  

Facility Rental (Generic) Title Header 1 Header 2 Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit. Nam eu nulla. Donem. Integer in ante. Sed posuere ligula rhoncus erat. Fusce uritae sapina dui, sollicitudringilla. Fusce dapibus odio in est. Nunc eges tas mauris ac leo. Nuheh ellam regardy ledrodo orci. - Link Style   Morbi volutpat leo in ligula. Integer vel magna. Quisque ut magna et nisi bibendum sagittis. Fusce elit ligula, sodales sit amet, tincidunt in, ullamcorper condimentum, lectus. Aliquam ut massa. Suspendisse dolor. Cras quam augue, consectetuer id, auctor ut, tincidunt a, velit.    Donec tempus, urna a congue ultrices, lacus magna convallis nulla, non ultrices metus justo et purus. In leo lorem, dapibus lit ac semper iaculis, mi odio dignissim diam, id dapibus eros metus id nisi. Nulla vitae sapien. Nulla ligula. Cum sociis natoque penatibus et magnis dis parturient montes, nascetur ridiculus mus. Curabitur non nisl id ante egestas dapibus.    Quisque euismod tortor sed nulla. Nunc dapibus, nisi et iaculis feugiat, leo ipsum venenatis enim, a nonummy magna ante vitae diam. Proin sapien. Duis eleifend. Praesent tempor velit molestie neque. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit. Sed mollis justo eget augue. Donec tempus, urna a congue ultrices, lacus magna convallis nulla, non ultrices metus justo et purus. In leo lorem, dapibus lit ac semper iaculis, mi odio dignissim diam, id dapibus eros metus id nisi. Nulla vitae sapien. Nulla ligula. Cum sociis natoque penatibus et magnis dis parturient montes, nascetur ridiculus mus. Curabitur non nisl id ante egestas dapibus. Sed mollis ornare ipsum. In id enim dignissim erat viverra vulputate.   Aenean sit amet massa. Nam mattis enim ut elit. Phasellus pretium ornare lorem. Maecenas non orci. Fusce cursus eleifend mi. Suspendisse egestas, sem id pellentesque nonummy, lacus odio sceleris. In congue sem eget purus consequat consectetuer. Sed euismod erat eget neque. Proin turpis. Sed id nulla vel magna consectetuer laoreet. Aenean pulvinar scelerisque erat. Quisque eget augue vel risus convallis congue. Praesent tortor nunc, ultricies a, rutrum vitae, venenatis at, turpis. Class aptent taciti sociosqu ad litora torquent per conubia nostra, per inceptos hymenaeos.    Header 4 Curabitur accumsan venenatis diam.    In hac habitasse platea dictumst. Cras faucibus ligula in leo. Aenean mattis, felis mollis vestibulum semper, velit tortor semper dui, sed interdum arcu magna eu lectus. Nunc nibh neque, vestibulum eu, ornare ut, congue in, est. Sed consequat leo.  Hedaer 6 Donec et quam commodo magna dapibus placerat. Aenean condimentum.   

SubPage 1 Column with Masthead Title Header 1 Header 2 Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit. Nam eu nulla. Donem. Integer in ante. Sed posuere ligula rhoncus erat. Fusce uritae sapina dui, sollicitudringilla. Fusce dapibus odio in est. Nunc eges tas mauris ac leo. Nuheh ellam regardy ledrodo orci. - Link Style   Morbi volutpat leo in ligula. Integer vel magna. Quisque ut magna et nisi bibendum sagittis. Fusce elit ligula, sodales sit amet, tincidunt in, ullamcorper condimentum, lectus. Aliquam ut massa. Suspendisse dolor. Cras quam augue, consectetuer id, auctor ut, tincidunt a, velit.    Donec tempus, urna a congue ultrices, lacus magna convallis nulla, non ultrices metus justo et purus. In leo lorem, dapibus lit ac semper iaculis, mi odio dignissim diam, id dapibus eros metus id nisi. Nulla vitae sapien. Nulla ligula. Cum sociis natoque penatibus et magnis dis parturient montes, nascetur ridiculus mus. Curabitur non nisl id ante egestas dapibus.    Quisque euismod tortor sed nulla. Nunc dapibus, nisi et iaculis feugiat, leo ipsum venenatis enim, a nonummy magna ante vitae diam. Proin sapien. Duis eleifend. Praesent tempor velit molestie neque. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit. Sed mollis justo eget augue. Donec tempus, urna a congue ultrices, lacus magna convallis nulla, non ultrices metus justo et purus. In leo lorem, dapibus lit ac semper iaculis, mi odio dignissim diam, id dapibus eros metus id nisi. Nulla vitae sapien. Nulla ligula. Cum sociis natoque penatibus et magnis dis parturient montes, nascetur ridiculus mus. Curabitur non nisl id ante egestas dapibus. Sed mollis ornare ipsum. In id enim dignissim erat viverra vulputate.   Aenean sit amet massa. Nam mattis enim ut elit. Phasellus pretium ornare lorem. Maecenas non orci. Fusce cursus eleifend mi. Suspendisse egestas, sem id pellentesque nonummy, lacus odio sceleris. In congue sem eget purus consequat consectetuer. Sed euismod erat eget neque. Proin turpis. Sed id nulla vel magna consectetuer laoreet. Aenean pulvinar scelerisque erat. Quisque eget augue vel risus convallis congue. Praesent tortor nunc, ultricies a, rutrum vitae, venenatis at, turpis. Class aptent taciti sociosqu ad litora torquent per conubia nostra, per inceptos hymenaeos.    Header 4 Curabitur accumsan venenatis diam.    In hac habitasse platea dictumst. Cras faucibus ligula in leo. Aenean mattis, felis mollis vestibulum semper, velit tortor semper dui, sed interdum arcu magna eu lectus. Nunc nibh neque, vestibulum eu, ornare ut, congue in, est. Sed consequat leo.  Hedaer 6 Donec et quam commodo magna dapibus placerat. Aenean condimentum.   

Seward, Alaska (January 19, 2021) – The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) announces the nomination period for the 2021 Alaska Ocean Leadership Awards has been extended to January 28, 2021. ASLC established the Awards to recognize those who have made significant contributions to ocean sciences, education, and resource management in Alaska. Awards will be presented at a virtual event in March, 2021. The award categories are as follows: Walter J. & Ermalee Hickel Lifetime Achievement Award: Awarded to an individual or institution that has made an exceptional contribution to management of Alaska’s coastal and ocean resources over a period of 20 or more years. $1000 cash prize. Sponsored by the late Governor Walter J. and the late Ermalee Hickel. Stewardship & Sustainability Award: Awarded to an industry initiative that demonstrates the highest commitment to sustainability of ocean resources. Sponsored by Jason Brune. Marine Research Award: Awarded to a scientist, team of scientists, or an institution that is acknowledged by peers to have made an original breakthrough contribution or a career spanning achievement in any field of scientific knowledge about Alaska’s oceans. $500 cash prize. Sponsored by Dr. Clarence Pautzke and Dr. Maureen McCrea. Marine Science Outreach Award: Awarded to a person, team, or organization that has made an outstanding contribution to ocean literacy via formal or informal education, media, or other communications about Alaska’s marine ecosystems. $500 cash prize. Sponsored by Alaska Ocean Observing System. Hoffman-Greene Ocean Youth Award: Awarded to an individual or team of Alaskan youth up to age 19 who has displayed dedication to promoting the understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s oceans. $500 cash prize. Sponsored by Dale Hoffman. To make a nomination for any of these awards, visit our website www.alaskasealife.org or email oceanawards@alaskasealife.org. About the ASLC Opened in 1998, the Alaska SeaLife Center operates as a private, non-profit research institution and public aquarium. It generates and shares scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems. To learn more, visit www.alaskasealife.org. 

The Alaska SeaLife Center is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2022 Alaska Ocean Leadership Awards. These awards are given annually to individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the awareness and sustainability of the state’s marine resources. The Alaska SeaLife Center appreciates the support provided by the award sponsors and thanks the awards committee members (Jason Brune, Ginny Eckert, Dale Hoffman, Molly McCammon, Lynn Palensky, Robert Suydam) for their assistance in selecting the award recipients. These awards will be presented at a virtual event on March 31.           Dr. Robert Suydam, Ph.D., will receive the prestigious Walter J. and Ermalee Hickel Lifetime Achievement Award. The late Governor Walter J. Hickel and the late Ermalee Hickel endowed this award for 10 years to recognize individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the management of Alaska’s coastal and ocean resources for more than 20 years. Senior Wildlife Biologist Dr. Robert Suydam’s three decades of research on bowhead and beluga whales as well as his deep involvement with co-management and Alaska Native organizations represents a truly exceptional contribution to the management and science of Alaska’s marine mammal resources. Robert has published well over 200 peer-reviewed papers and technical reports throughout his tenure at the North Slope Borough Department of Wildlife Management on a wide range of species and topics. In addition, he has served on multiple advisory panels and boards that have greatly advanced understanding of the Arctic and Sub-Arctic marine environment, including Science Advisor to the US Marine Mammal Commission, member of the National Research Council, Fellow of the Arctic Institute of North American, member of the Alaska Beluga Whale Committee, advisor to the Alaska Eskimo Whaling Commission, and member of the International Whaling Commission Scientific Committee. Moreover, Robert has worked closely with the oil and gas industry in Alaska to ensure that the implementation of sound science-driven policies related to offshore exploration and development facilitated the protections of the arctic environment and fauna potentially impacted by development. One of Robert’s more important and unique achievements has been his long and consistent involvement advancing the use of traditional knowledge in scientific research and management. Robert has been a strong and articulate advocate for Alaskan Native subsistence rights to harvest marine mammals and feed their communities with traditional foods and for high-quality arctic marine science and has worked with North Slope Borough, Alaskan Native, state, federal, and international organizations to ensure that sound science is used to develop marine policy.   Jim Pfeiffenberger will receive the Marine Science Outreach Award. This award is given to a person, team or organization that has made an outstanding contribution to ocean literacy via formal or informal education, media, or other communications. It is sponsored by the Alaska Ocean Observing System. National Park Service Education Coordinator Jim Pfeiffenberger has done an extraordinary job connecting students and adults of all ages to the wonders, mysteries, challenges, science, and stewardship of Alaska’s marine and coastal ecosystems. From teaching in classrooms located in remote or rural Alaska communities, in-person programs along coastlines or from ships, to virtual and online platforms when the need arose, Jim has embraced every opportunity to connect students to the marine environment, the science that helps to inform its stewardship, management and protection, as well as doing the hard work of cleaning it up. Jim has designed innovative and engaging media that has connected people to Alaska’s eleven coastal parks and their diverse and critically important resources. He has thrived working as the Education Coordinator for the Ocean Alaska Science and Learning Center, co-located at Kenai Fjords National Park. Jim has made marine science, ecosystems, and stewardship relevant, meaningful and inspiring for students from K – 12 and beyond, including mentoring college students completing media development internships focused on the work, management, and stewardship of Alaska’s coastal parks and partners. Jim’s professional delivery of education in the field of marine science and outreach has been transformational—shifting the first impressions of students, teachers, and visitors into knowledge and ultimately, into care.   Dr. Tuula Hollmén, D.V.M., Ph.D., will receive the Marine Research Award. This award is sponsored by Drs. Clarence Pautzke and Maureen McCrea. This honor is given to a scientist, team of scientists, or an institution that is acknowledged by peers to have made an original breakthrough contribution to any field of scientific knowledge about Alaska’s oceans. Dr. Hollmén’s career reflects three decades of work on seabird ecology and epidemiology, including twenty years of focus on the threatened Steller’s eider. She applies her veterinary and biology training to a broad portfolio of fieldwork, laboratory analysis, modeling, and teaching. She currently holds positions as a Senior Research Scientist at the Alaska SeaLife Center and as a Research Associate Professor at the College of Fisheries and Ocean Science and the Center for One Health Research at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. She served as the Science Director at the Alaska SeaLife Center (2010-2015) as well as the Eider Program Manager (2002-2020). She is a member of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Spectacled and Steller's eider recovery teams, and was the chair for the Steller’s Eider reintroduction committee. She also found time to sit on the North Pacific Research Board Science Panel from 2011 to 2019, serving as Vice Chair from 2014 to 2019. Dr. Hollmén and her team successfully established a captive breeding flock of endangered Steller's eiders at the ASLC to serve as one of the main routes for potential re-introduction of to the wild. Prior to Dr. Hollmén's research at ASLC, Steller’s eiders had never successfully bred in captivity in North America. Most recently, her research has provided groundbreaking insights to the impacts of climate change on Arctic lagoons with real-time implications for marine species conservation efforts.   Ward Cove Dock Group and Norwegian Cruise Line will jointly receivethe Stewardship and Sustainability Award. This award is sponsored by Jason Brune, and honors an industry leader that demonstrates the highest commitment to sustainability of ocean resources. The Mill at Ward Cove is a partnership between Ward Cove Dock Group, LLC and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. that has built a two-berth, floating cruise ship dock and corresponding Welcome Center and Passenger Transit Facility in Ward Cove, near Ketchikan. When the Ketchikan Pulp Mill closed, Ward Cove was found to be contaminated with fuels, paints, and heavy metals as well as large quantities of sunken longs which affected the health of all local marine life. Ward Cove was then declared a Superfund site under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act and was remediated with institutional controls under the oversight of the Environmental Protection Agency and the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation. Under the leadership of John Binkley and Dave Spokely, a plan was created to responsibly repurpose this area, which resulted in an innovative design and construction of the largest cruise ship dock in Alaska. This project has transitioned a decaying brownfield site into a place the community takes pride in once again. The advanced design of the dock required fewer pilings to be drilled into the ocean floor, reducing impact on the sand cap. Additionally, the unique construction techniques preserved the sensitive marine environment. Today, with ongoing monitoring, the marine life is thriving in Ward Cove, and Ward Cove Dock Group is committed to preserving this sensitive environment into the future.   Elin Antaya will receive the Hoffman-Greene Ocean Youth Award. The Ocean Youth Award is awarded to an individual or team of Alaskan youth up to 19 years old who has displayed a dedication to promoting the understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s oceans. Juneau Douglas High School Senior Elin Antaya cares about our planet and ocean. Elin is currently working in a University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) laboratory in Juneau helping to support research on harmful algal blooms and ocean acidification monitoring. Elin is a 4.0 student and has participated in the National Ocean Sciences Bowl all four years of high school. Last summer she held a Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program Internship funded by the American Fisheries Society where she worked closely with graduate students and faculty from the UAF conducting field and laboratory research. Elin collects old buoys and repurposes them with Alaskan ocean themed art, with the motivation to share Alaska’s diverse marine habitats and honor the diverse fishers and vessels who navigate and enjoy the bounty of our oceans. Elin not only expands on her own scientific knowledge, but also has a vested interest in public scientific education and shows understanding and ability to disseminate complex ecological processes. She has co-published opinion articles in the Juneau Empire and Pacific Fishing explaining the roles that sea otters play in marine ecosystems. Whether she is leading squid dissections with elementary students, saving halibut heads for otolith removal, or picking up workdays at the local oyster farm, Elin continues to share the intrigue of marine organisms with the next generation of researchers. She has applied for and been accepted to many outstanding universities including UAF, Colorado College, UC San Diego, Hawaii Pacific, Quest and Cal Poly Humboldt to study ocean and marine science to continue her desire to be find solutions for the future health of our marine environments. Elin is also an elite dancer, president of the Nordic Club, member of the National Honor Society, and an employee of Salty Lady Seafood Co.     Richard Hocking is this year’s recipient of the Ocean Ambassador Award. The Ocean Ambassador Award recognizes an individual or organization that has made outstanding contributions in promoting public awareness and appreciation of Alaska’s oceans, coasts, and marine ecosystems. Richard’s passion for the ocean defined his work and his life. He spent 45 years working in the marine science field, beginning with the Seattle Aquarium, Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium, and the Alaska SeaLife Center. Richard served as the Center’s Aquarium Curator from 1998 until his passing in November 2021. Richard was known as one of the most hands-on curators in the building, including designing exhibits, checking water quality, managing permits, and diving for collection trips, all while leading the Aquarium Division for twenty-three years. Richard became widely known as ASLC’s resident nutritionist, and he understood the intricate diets of animals ranging from the smallest sea star to the largest Steller sea lions. His knowledge of marine animal biology and husbandry was unmatched. He co-authored papers ranging trophically from monogenean fish parasites to centuries-old elasmobranchs, and is a widely acknowledged contributor to dozens of research publications and projects. Richard sought out and promoted opportunities for ASLC staff to take part in professional growth opportunities, ensuring that ASLC’s animal care teams remained highly skilled. One of the many activities Richard led was the monitoring for marine aquatic invasive species in Resurrection Bay. Since 2009, Richard has guided ASLC staff and interns in evaluating the health of the bay by surveying the habitat year-round for European green crab, tunicates, and other invasive species and sharing these findings with the Invasive Species Program at the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. Richard lent his expertise to marine-oriented organizations and activities in the Seward area, including the Alutiiq Pride Shellfish Hatchery and the Seward Chamber of Commerce Seward Silver Salmon Derby, where he served as the expert fish authority, placing his verification stamp on the winning salmon each year. He strived to educate and motivate the next generation of ocean stewards by assisting in the Center’s after-school Ocean Sciences Club, as a judge during the Alaska National Ocean Sciences Bowl, as a graduate committee member for Alaska Pacific University graduate students, and as an unofficial advisor for every scientist that worked at ASLC. Richard manifested a lifelong stewardship for the ocean and its inhabitants that he expressed through a lifetime of daily acts of service. Richard leaves a legacy of a life led by example, motivated by an enduring belief that ocean life could be used to convey the extraordinary richness of biological diversity, and further, that knowledge of the oceans could be used to spark wonder and inspire others to action.   Congratulations to this year's winners!   

Join us for the Seward Seabird Festival! Activities will take place all around Seward June 10, 11, and 12, 2022. All weekend long, visit Seward for events celebrating the migration of Alaska's seabirds through education, science, and art!  Visit www.alaskasealife.org/sewardseabirdfestival for updates on the event!    

Alaskan bird enthusiasts flock to Seward this month for the annual Seward Seabird Festival! Join community partners to celebrate the rich seabird diversity of the Kenai fjords through family-friendly activities, local art, sightseeing opportunities, and chances to network with seabird researchers and professionals. From the budding birder to the seasoned seabird expert, this city-wide event has something for everyone! Click here to view and download the event schedule 

  Tickets on sale now! Alaska SeaLife Center Soirée   The Alaska SeaLife Center’s annual Anchorage fundraising event returns to the Anchorage Museum to benefit marine research, education, and conservation. Guests will savor a bountiful selection of chef-inspired hors d’oeuvres, connect with others who share a deep passion for Alaska’s oceans, and enjoy the excitement of silent and live auctions featuring unique Alaskan experiences and treasures. Complimentary wine provided by Michael David Winery.   If you are interested in becoming a sponsor for this event, please email development@alaskasealife.org. Purchase tickets NOW!

Alaskan bird enthusiasts flock to Seward this month for the annual Seward Seabird Festival! Join community partners to celebrate the rich seabird diversity of the Kenai fjords through family-friendly activities, local art, sightseeing opportunities, and chances to network with seabird researchers and professionals. From the budding birder to the seasoned seabird expert, this city-wide event has something for everyone! CLICK TO VIEW AND DOWNLOAD THE EVENT SCHEDULE  

Seward, Alaska (November 7, 2018) - Twenty-two top aquariums across the United States, including the Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC), have already eliminated 5 million straws in their coordinated campaign to reduce sources of plastic pollution. Now they’re upping their game by encouraging individuals, businesses and cities around the country to cut back on single-use plastic—starting with plastic straws—by Earth Day 2019. Banding together in a joint #FirstStep to plastic-free waters, the aquariums seek commitments from 500 more businesses, pledges from individuals, and policy action by municipalities, all to reduce a growing source of single-use plastic waste that harms ocean and freshwater wildlife around the world. The campaign will kick off during #NoStrawNovember, a nationwide movement asking people who don’t need them to refuse plastic straws for 30 days.  “Reducing straws alone doesn’t solve the problem of plastic in our ocean, but it’s an important first step,” said Tara Riemer, ASLC President, and CEO. “Our goal is to get Alaskans thinking about ways to reduce single-use plastics—and encourage the availability of ocean-friendly alternatives in the state.” The #FirstStep campaign includes: Recruiting 500 new businesses to partner with aquariums across the country by committing to offer straws only on request, for a total of 1,000 businesses committed by Earth Day 2019 An online pledge site (pledge.ourhands.org/) where individuals can commit to make the last straw their first step to plastic-free waters Initiatives by partner aquariums to inspire cities in their regions to pass straws-on-request ordinances and other local measures to reduce single-use plastic An opportunity for individuals to get tips via text message on ways to cut back on single-use plastic in their daily lives. Since the 2017 launch of the Aquarium Conservation Partnership (ACP), 22 partner aquariums in 17 states – located on the coasts and in the heartland – have eliminated more than 5 million straws a year, stopped using plastic shopping bags, and have committed to significantly reduce or eliminate plastic beverage bottles by 2020.  Nearly 500 businesses—including United Airlines, the Chicago White Sox, Dignity Health hospitals and Farmer Brothers Coffee—have made plastic-reduction commitments in collaboration with ACP aquariums.                                                            Municipalities in aquarium communities, and California on a statewide basis, have enacted laws either banning single-use plastic from many foodservice operations or requiring businesses to offer plastic straws only when customers request them. ACP partner aquariums are supporting these efforts in a variety of ways. “There’s new scientific evidence, almost on a weekly basis, about the ways that plastic pollution is harming marine and aquatic wildlife,” said Monterey Bay Aquarium Executive Director Julie Packard.    “I find it so encouraging that people are responding quickly to the threat—by changing their habits, and asking businesses and governments to step up and take action.” “The health of our lakes and rivers is important not only to the wildlife that live there – they are a recreation and economic resource for us all,” said Bridget Coughlin, president and CEO of Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium. “Beyond inspiring the public to take action, it’s our duty to empower businesses and community leaders to raise the issue of plastic pollution taking place in both freshwater and marine habitats, lead by example and make long-lasting, impactful change.” “A sea change is underway, and people want to do their part to ensure the future of our ocean planet,” said National Aquarium President and Chief Executive Officer John Racanelli.“All 22 of the aquariums that make up the ACP are committed to reducing single-use plastics, and it is now our hope to inspire and serve as a model for other organizations and companies as well as individuals. The reality is that if everyone does their part, we can make a meaningful impact.” ACP's initiative has already expanded globally. Its work sparked the European Commission and United Nations Environment Program – with support from five international partners, including ACP – to announce a commitment by European Union Commissioner for Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Karmenu Vella at the 5th international "Our Ocean" conference October 29-30 in Bali, Indonesia to coordinate a global coalition of 200 aquariums by 2019 to raise public awareness about plastic pollution. For more information about the #FirstStep campaign or to take the pledge, please visit pledge.ourhands.org/. About the Aquarium Conservation Partnership The Aquarium Conservation Partnership (ACP) is a collaboration of 22 U.S.public aquariums in 17 states, all committed to advancing conservation of the world’s ocean, lakes, and rivers through consumer engagement, business leadership, and policy changes.  ACP was founded by Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, Monterey Bay Aquarium in California, and National Aquarium in Baltimore, in collaboration with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. More information at pledge.ourhands.org/.   About the ASLC Opened in 1998, the Alaska SeaLife Center operates as a private, non-profit research institution and public aquarium. It generates and shares scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems. To learn more, visit www.alaskasealife.org.  

  A New Way to Share ASLC Stories!   The ASLC 60 North Science Blog has expanded to include even more stories highlighting the important work that happens at the ASLC!  See the new look of the blog and join our staff as they share stories fo research, education, wildlife response, and animal care. All the amazing archived science stories are still active on the blog, but the link has changed to https://stories.alaskasealife.org/                

Our Education Team will convince you that learning is fun!