AltaSea Names Dr. Sylvia Earle and Dr. Melanie Lundquist as Founding Ambassadors

LOS ANGELES–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AltaSea at the Port of Los Angeles today announced that renowned oceanographer Sylvia Earle and California philanthropist Melanie Lundquist have been named founding ambassadors of AltaSea, launching a new initiative designed to amplify the organization’s mission and expand its global reach.

As Founding Ambassadors, Earle and Lundquist will serve in honorary advisory roles, helping to champion AltaSea’s work by convening stakeholders across the globe. Through these efforts, they will help elevate awareness and support for ocean-based climate solutions, workforce development, and the growing blue economy.

“Sylvia and Melanie’s voices will help spotlight the promise of the blue economy and the urgent need to protect our ocean while creating opportunity for future generations,” said AltaSea President and CEO Terry Tamminen. “They bring extraordinary credibility, passion, and influence on this effort, and we are honored to have them serve as our inaugural ambassadors.”

The AltaSea Ambassadors Program is an honorary initiative created to recognize globally respected leaders whose vision and values align with AltaSea’s mission to advance ocean innovation, education, and climate solutions. Ambassadors will provide strategic insight, inspire stakeholders, and participate in key convenings and events, including AltaSea’s annual Next Generation Celebration.

Dr. Sylvia Earle, one of the world’s most respected oceanographers and explorers, has spent decades advancing global understanding of ocean science and conservation. Often called “Her Deepness” for the record number of hours she spent exploring underwater, Sylvia Earle’s career has pioneered research on marine ecosystems through her exploration and technological innovations. Earle is a former chief scientist for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the first female to hold that position. A longtime supporter of AltaSea, she was honored at the organization’s Blue Hour event and continues to advocate for scalable, science-driven solutions to protect marine ecosystems.

“The ocean is the foundation of life on earth, and initiatives like AltaSea are essential to advancing the solutions we need. I am honored to support this mission and help bring more voices into this important work,” said Earle.

Dr. Melanie Lundquist, one of California’s most active philanthropists, has played a significant role in supporting AltaSea’s growth and impact. Alongside her husband, Richard, they have provided the second largest private contribution to AltaSea. Lundquist is recognized as a strong advocate for improving K-12 public education and has translated her work to also inspiring the next generation of ocean innovators through field trips, hands-on learning experiences, internships, and fellowships at AltaSea. As part of this transition, Lundquist concluded her service on AltaSea’s Board of Trustees on March 31, continuing her deep engagement with the organization in her new ambassador role.

“I believe deeply in AltaSea’s ability to connect innovation, education, and opportunity,” said Lundquist. “This new role is a meaningful way for me to continue advancing AltaSea’s vision and engaging others in the critical work.”

Now in its 12th year, AltaSea has developed a 35-acre ocean technology campus that is home to many innovative climate solutions focused on the ocean in a variety of industries, including aquaculture, carbon capture, renewable energy, and ocean exploration. AltaSea also partners with high schools, colleges, and universities to provide educational experiences for the next generation of climate scientists and innovators.