Staff
Emily Hughes
Data Administrator
It starts with me... I don't know exactly when I first started loving the ocean, but it seems I have always loved it. Some could say its because I was born and raised on the coasts of Southern California. Or perhaps its because I was most likely some kind of sea animal in another life. Whatever the case, the ocean has been, and always will be many, many things to me. It nourishes my soul like food nourishes my body. It satiates my senses and rejuvenates my spirit. It awakens me from the trance imposed by an insensible world. To me, the ocean represents freedom, expression, tranquility, adventure, new beginnings, and... hope.
Ryan Johnson
Staff Accountant
What’s your favorite memory at the beach? Without a doubt, my first barrel ride in Ventura, California. It was the most euphoric experience any young surf kid could imagine. After that day, I knew I was stitched for life.
Jody Kennedy
Washington Policy Manager
I work to protect, restore and enable access to the amazing coastline of Washington State. I connect with community leaders, elected officials and coastal managers, but it’s not my voice that resonates with decision makers – it’s our members’. The passion and dedication with which our members speak out and take action is why we are improving the health of our oceans and coast and why I love working with the Surfrider Foundation.
Michelle Kremer
Chief Operating Officer
On the first day I walked into the Surfrider Foundation offices in San Clemente, I had no plan to stay as long as I have.
Laura Lee
Director of Marketing
I’m living the dream. Having grown-up in Texas two hours away from the Gulf coast, I feel incredibly lucky to have so many memories on the beach and in the water. Thanks to my mom’s huge love of our oceans and my dad’s passion for fishing, I grew up with a deep appreciation for our coasts and all bodies of water.
Kyle Lishok
Marketing Manager
If your power animal is the polar bear, it only makes sense that you help protect where you play.
Edward Mazzarella
Director of Chapters
So here I am, four CEO’s later, 60 new chapters, new friends made and some friends gone. A fancy Director of Chapters title, tools incorporated into our outreach efforts that only a few dreamed of way back in 1992, regional staff in the field to assist our chapter network, training conferences hosted around the globe and too many bands later to remember the names.
Lindsay Miller
Communications Coordinator
It’s not everyday you find an organization where you can feel the love and determination to strive for the same goal.
Dani Mimm
Office Administrator/HR
Some of my very first memories are of the times I spent clinging to an old 8’0” Becker board...
Jim Moriarty
Chief Executive Officer
I fell in love with the ocean in Westerly, Rhode Island. Our family would go there every summer. We'd spend our days sailing, clamming and paddling surfboards around the natural bays. Fast forward a few decades and I work at Surfrider doing my best to protect places just like Westerly.
Mohamed Ali Mukadam
Accounting Assistant
As part of the Accounting team, I manage chapter finances and assist in other accounting duties. Although I am excited to learn how to surf soon, I am a cricketer at heart. I've been playing cricket since i can remember and continue to play here in Southern California.
Dr. Chad Nelsen
Environmental Director
I grew up as beach kid and lifeguard in Laguna Beach where I gained a true appreciation for both the power and fragility of our oceans and coasts. Now as Surfrider Foundation's Environmental Director I have the privilege of working with coastal activists around the world to protect our oceans, waves and beaches.
Charlie Plybon
Oregon Field Manager
The activist loves Oregon more than he loves life, said Tom McCall, one of the state's greatest governors and champion of the Beach Bill. So Oregon was a natural landing pad for this outspoken North Carolinian, reared feet firmly planted in the sand. As Oregon Field Manager for Surfrider Foundation and extreme karaoke professional, I have an amazing opportunity to amplify voices across this great state.
Stefanie Sekich-Quinn
California Policy Manager
I was drawn to Surfrider’s philosophy of being a “member-driven” organization that inspires coastal activism with remarkable results. I’m constantly amazed by the throngs of Surfrider supporters who participate in issues they care about. As a Campaign Specialist for Surfrider, I have the honor of working with highly motivated, intelligent and caring people—and together, we are protecting our oceans, beaches and waves—one victory at a time.
Pete Stauffer
Ocean Program Manager
As the Ocean Program Manager, I support Surfrider's engagement in marine protected areas (MPAs), regional ocean planning, renewable ocean energy, and federal legislation. I live in the beautiful state of Oregon where I enjoy surfing cold waves and hanging out on the beach whenever I can.
Ian Swanson
Graphic Designer
If you love the ocean... you're my friend. If you want more homes and freeways...go to Dubai.
