Mission: Sea Research Foundation Inc. is the parent organization of Mystic Aquarium, Institute for Exploration and Immersion Learning. Its mission is to inspire people to care for and protect our ocean planet through education, research and exploration.
Background: Mystic Aquarium was founded in 1973 by chemists Kelvin Smith and William Kelley, who invented “Instant Ocean,” a mineral formulation that when added to fresh water provides aquariums with perfectly balanced sea water.
Today, approximately 750,000 people visit the aquarium’s beluga whales, Steller sea lions, African penguins and other rare and remarkable animals each year. Since opening its doors, the aquarium has conducted pioneering marine animal and ecosystem research, and has become a leader in education and local and global conservation efforts.
The Marine Mammal Rescue Clinic has rehabilitated and returned stranded marine animals to the wild for more than 30 years and plays an important role in educating the community on species conservation. Sea Research education programs bring the marine world to all ages, from preschoolers to seniors, and encourage students to become environmental ambassadors.
In July 1997, famed oceanographer and National Geographic Society Explorer-in Residence Robert Ballard brought his Institute for Exploration to Sea Research Foundation. Under Dr. Ballard’s leadership, the institute has assembled a team to pioneer the emerging fields of deep-sea archaeology and geology. His discoveries are featured in the Challenge of the Deep exhibition at Mystic Aquarium and are often seen on the National Geographic Channel. Immersion Learning, Sea Research’s national education division, was founded by Dr. Ballard and Dr. Stephen Coan in 2002. Through live Web casts from scientific expeditions, hands-on curricula and an engaging Web site, this nonprofit science education organization brings ocean adventures and discoveries to more than 500,000 students across North America each year.
Major Fundraiser: Annual Ocean Commotion Gala, Sept. 25, 2010 at Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration
Volunteer Needs: Contact Tracy Sullivan, volunteer coordinator, at (860)572-5955, ext. 209.
Leadership:
Dr. Stephen M. Coan, president and CEO, Sea Research Foundation;
Dr. Robert Ballard, president, Institute for Exploration;
Denise Armstrong, senior vice president and chief financial officer;
Dr. Tracy Romano, senior vice president, research and veterinary services;
Peter Glankoff, senior vice president, marketing and public affairs;
Dr. George M. Milne Jr., board chairman.
Name of Organization: Sea Research Foundation Inc.
5 Coogan Blvd., Mystic, CT 06355
(860) 572-5955
www.searesearch.org
Stephen M. Coan is president and CEO of the Sea Research Foundation.
