Vanessa is currently developing Ocean School at SeaLegacy—a research and resource-based education initiative designed to help learners (of all ages) fall in love with the ocean, and only grow deeper in that connection over time. Through SeaLegacy’s research, expeditions, and collaborative, immersive storytelling, her work hopes to connect and engage K–12 and post-secondary to the ocean.
Vanessa’s background weaves together art, museums, conservation and public engagement, shaped by her studies at Georgetown University and experience working across cultural institutions in North America and India, including the Smithsonian. She has worked in research, education, and communications roles, contributed to initiatives such as 100 for the Ocean, and currently engages young audiences at the Royal Ontario Museum—bringing a people-first, curiosity-driven approach to conservation storytelling. Outside of work, Vanessa loves getting lost in a good book, cycling, and exploring new hiking trails, and has an unapologetic love for eating carrots—raw, roasted, or anything in between. She also genuinely enjoys staying organized and tackling a solid, robust spreadsheet.
