Welcome to the
Associate Board of Directors AssociateBoardofDirectors
Presentedby:
RileyRussellandKaitlynDavidson
“Using the ocean as our classroom, we inspire children to learn.”
About OceanInstitute
The Ocean Institute, founded in 1977, is a communitybased 501(c)(3) organization that educates 100,000 children, teachers, parents, and visitors annually through over 60 marine science and maritime history programs.
We are located on 2.4 acres in the Dana Point Harbor; adjacent to a Marine Protected Area. The facility is an ocean education center that offers in-depth marine science and maritime history programs.
The Institute includes state-of-the-art teaching labs, the spectacular Maddie James Seaside Learning Center, a historic tall ship, and an oceanographic research vessel.
Immersion-based field trips range from one-hour science labs to multi-day programs at sea. All programs are designed to maximize immersion, spark curiosity, and inspire a deep commitment to learning.
Mission Vision and Associate Board of Directors Associate Board of Directors
MissionofABOD
The Associate Board of Directors supports the Ocean Institute by engaging the next generation of leaders in philanthropy, advocacy, and community-building. Through volunteerism, fundraising, and networking, the ABOD advancestheOceanInstitute’s mission to inspire ocean literacyandstewardship.
VisionofABOD
theABODstrivestobethenext generation of leaders who champion the Ocean Institute by bringing in fresh energy, innovative ideas, and new resources.Theyaimtobroaden communityconnections,foster a culture of philanthropy and advocacy, and help ensure the Institute not only thrives today but continues to inspire and educatefuturegenerations.
WhyJointheOceanInstitute AssociateBoardofDirectors
LeadershipGrowth:Buildboardexperience, fundraisingskills,andnonprofitleadership.
Networking:Connectwithpeers,trustees,and communityleaders.
ExclusiveAccess:Behind-the-scenestours,tall shipsails,andVIPevents.
Impact:Directlysupportoceaneducation, conservation,andstudentprograms.
Fun&Community:Bepartoffestivals,socials, anduniqueOceanInstituteexperiences.
Ocean Institute “Swag” (name tag, hat, t-shirt)
(4) Four tickets to Sails n’ Ales: Kick off Party during Ocean Institute’s annual Maritime Festival in September.
Opportunities such as Adopt-A-Class ride-along and member discounts at the Ocean Institute Gift Store
Build nonprofit and board leadership skills in a supportive environment.
Engage directly with the Ocean Institute’s mission and community.
Contribute to the success and sustainability of our programs.
You also receive a one-year Sea Star Membership and its associated benefits
Click the button below to check out the perks of being a Sea Star Member
Associate BoardPerks
ProposedMeetingsDatesandAgendas
Upcoming: 11/12/2025 - Orientation and Recruitment Prospects
2026
1/13/2026 - Operations and Governance
3/10/2026 - Fundraiser and Friendraiser Workshop
Engagement
Members of the Associate Board of Directors are responsible for supporting Ocean Institute fundraising initiatives and events, including the annual Gala, donation campaigns, and the Maritime Festival.
Attendance
Meetings occur on the 2 Tuesday of every other month. Members are expected to attend at least 4 out of the 6 meetings of the year. Meetings will include educational content and planning discussions.
Some will take place in person, others on zoom.
Representation
The Associate Board will act as representatives of Ocean Institute, supporting the fundraising and networking efforts of the organization. Members will serve as ambassadors in the community and on social media.
and
Meetings Responsibilities
Conclusion& Closing
Creating a vision for a sustainable future, and connecting future ocean stewards to the resources and experiences they need to thrive.
WeNeedYou!
Your expertise, vision, and perspective are valuable, and we are excited about the future of the Associate Board of Directors. Join us in supporting ocean education, conservation, and appreciation.
Readytocomeaboard?...
For all questions and application requirements, please email Riley Russell or Kaitlyn Davidson
(Contact information on the following slide)
