Board & Staff – Hubbs Seaworld Research Institute

Leadership

Leadership Committed to Science and Stewardship

Behind every breakthrough at Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute is a team of dedicated professionals guiding our mission. From operations staff to our board of trustees, each individual brings deep expertise and a shared commitment to advancing ocean science, conservation, and education. Explore the people shaping the future of HSWRI.

Select a name below to learn more about members of our staff and board of trustees.

Administrative Staff

Janine Watts

Communications & Grants Manager

Julie Carpenter

Human Resources Coordinator

Laura Vega

Accounting Manager

Lenell Carter, M.B.A

Corporate Secretary & CFO/COO

Les Winchester

Facility and Safety Manager

Maddy Jackson

Reception

Robert Ledesma

Hatchery Facilities Manager

Board of Trustees

Bill Shedd

Chairman, President, AFTCO Manufacturing Company Inc.

David Gardner, Sr.

Chairman & CEO, Highland PM LLC

Dr. Chris Dold

Chief Zoological Officer, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment Corporate

Ermelinda Moretti

Chief Advocate, Chevron Corporation

Ian Stewart

Laura Chapman

Senior Social Impact and Sustainability Specialist, Wells Fargo

Laurilee Thompson

Owner, Dixie Crossroads Restaurant

Louie Zimm

Michael King

Purchasing Manager, King's Seafood Company

Paul Fruchbom

Co-Founder, KDF Communities

Reese A. Jarret

President, E. Smith & Company, Inc.

Robert Fletcher

President, Sportfishing Association of California

Robert Weiner

President, Star-Box, Inc.

Tyler Carter

Park President, SeaWorld San Diego

Corporate Officers

Danielle Bates, Ph.D.

Vice President & Chief Science Officer

Donald B. Kent, M.Sc.,

President & CEO

Lenell Carter, M.B.A

Corporate Secretary & CFO/COO

Development & Community Relations

Courtney Snyder

Vice President of Philanthropy & Community Engagement

Janine Watts

Communications & Grants Manager

Meet More of Our Staff