MBNMS Sanctuary Education Panel (SEP)

The Sanctuary Education Panel was created in January 1992 when Monterey Bay marine educators were called upon by the Monterey Bay Aquarium to collaborate on guiding the newly designated sanctuary in educational endeavors.

This ad-hoc committee (then known as the Interim Education Advisory Committee) met monthly to formulate plans and implement programs aimed at improving public knowledge of and appreciation for the sanctuary.

Upon the establishment of the Sanctuary Advisory Council, this group was formally acknowledged as an advisory body to the council as well as the sanctuary staff and given the name Sanctuary Education Panel. Shauna Potocky, Visitor Hall & Volunteer Services Manager at the Seymour Discovery Center, chairs this panel, working closely with the Sanctuary Education Coordinator, Dawn Hayes. Membership includes educators from aquariums, universities, conservation organizations and agencies, as well as classroom teachers.

The SEP continues to meet bimonthly (every other month), reviewing program proposals, advising on educational priorities and assisting in implementation of programs to increase understanding and stewardship of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.

Previous meeting minutes produced by the SEP and MBNMS staff are available upon request, however, official minutes are not currently being recorded.

SEP Members

For more information, contact:

Dawn Hayes
MBNMS Education and Outreach Coordinator
299 Foam Street
Monterey, CA 93940
Phone: (831) 647-4256
Fax: (831) 647-4250
email: dawn.hayes@noaa.gov