Empowering Businesses

Businesses located in and near sanctuary communities play important roles in the protection of marine resources by promoting sustainable use and responsible recreation and tourism, and helping to raise public awareness about research and conservation efforts. The Sanctuary System Business Advisory Council is an opportunity for us to engage with and empower businesses in the protection and management of marine resources and support opportunities for equitable access. The expertise and diverse perspectives of the Business Advisory Council will be essential as we continue to work to improve visitor experiences, expand and enhance our public-private partnerships, and generate interest in marine conservation and sustainable use.

Members of Business Advisory Council

Taishya Adams - Outdoor Afro
Maite Arce - Hispanic Access Foundation
Dave Bulthuis - Pure Fishing
Elissa Foster - Patagonia, Inc.
Marie Fukudome - Hyatt Hotels Corporation
Taldi Harrison - Recreation Equipment Incorporated (REI)
Greg Jacoski - Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation
Greg Klassen - Twenty31 Consulting, Inc.

Richard Loomis - Executive Strategic Advisor
Betsy López-Wagner - López-Wagner Strategies
Joost Ouendag - Viking River Cruises
Martin Peters - Yamaha Marine Motors
Sherry L. Rupert - American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association (AIANTA)
Jessica (Wahl) Turner - Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR)
Stephanie Vatalaro - Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation

People on a boat — "So many of our nation’s coastal regions and marine parks have deep ties to Native American culture and heritage, and I look forward to working with NOAA to help elevate the voices of the native peoples connected to those coastal regions." Sherry Rupert, CEO of the American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association. Photo: Nick Zachar/NOAA

Boat in the ocean with whale jumping out the water on the side — "A healthy ocean is vital for the wellbeing of people because it’s a key factor in areas like climate action, food security, livelihoods, biodiversity, recreation, and tourism." Marie Fukudome, director of environmental affairs at Hyatt Corporation. Photo: Matt McIntosh/NOAA