About
Empowering Island Communities
through Education and Conservation
Mission
Isla Mar is dedicated to advancing holistic island science through research and education, deepening appreciation and understanding of the ocean's vital role in our islands and communities.
We demystify scientific concepts to foster widespread support for safeguarding our environments, empowering advocacy and inspiring environmental consciousness to preserve our island and ocean ecosystems for future generations.
Values
Isla Mar aims to cultivate trust within the community through honest and transparent communication of scientific endeavors. Our research, rooted in respect for the environment, acknowledges humanity's role in resource conservation and footprint reduction.
We cherish the well-being of our staff, students, participants, and the community, emphasizing supportive family connections and the education of young minds. Our focus is on uniting terrestrial and marine research to create an integrated approach to island science.
Purpose
Isla Mar aims to illuminate the scientific endeavors of our organization, offering targeted informal educational programs in island and marine sciences for both youth and adults. We provide avenues for citizen science participation and support students with scholarships for this research.
We undertake related research by securing diverse funding sources and build connections with funders to promote lasting support. Additionally, Isla Mar fosters collaboration among scientists and institutions engaged in island and marine science research.
Meet Our Founders
Founded amidst the academic fervor of their graduate studies at the University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez, in 2015, Isla Mar Research Expeditions was the visionary creation of Drs. Chelsea and Evan Tuohy. Originating with the stewardship of university field courses, meticulously crafted and guided by the Tuohys themselves, the endeavor swiftly burgeoned. With a combined diving tenure exceeding four decades and a decade of course leadership, the Tuohys laid the foundation for Isla Mar's expansion.
By 2024, Isla Mar had grown into a vibrant community of over 15 professional staff, a scientific research vessel, a spirited youth program, and a devoted team of citizen scientists. This growth, organically spurred by the pulse of the local community, culminated in Isla Mar's transition to a 501(c)3 non-profit, a testament to its unwavering dedication to marine stewardship.
Expertise
What Sets Us Apart
-
A cadre of highly trained AAUS-certified scientific divers, specializing in coral reef ecology, fish biology, fisheries management, and hydroacoustics.
-
Skilled technical and closed circuit rebreather divers, with experience beyond 50 meters.
-
Dedicated citizen scientists with proficiency in coral disease identification and restoration monitoring.
-
An education team led by a seasoned director with over 13 years of nurturing young minds.
-
Nurturing support for graduate students through assistantships, employment, thesis mentoring, and financial aid.
-
A rich tapestry of diverse programming for interactive experiential learning in our field courses
Board of Directors
Berliz Morales
President
Jose Vargas
Vice President
Cassandra Reyes-Jones
Secretary & Treasurer
The Team
Our Vessel
The Guacamaia is a 30ft Island Hopper Dive Boat equipped for scientific research and extended range diving operations. Our crew is an experienced team of licensed captains and dive instructors. As scientists, we understand your needs and expectations for field projects.
Assistant Staff
Juliann Seda
Science Communication
Idalmis Santos
Youth Program
Lourdes Marcano
Youth Program, Outreach
Our Facility
Our classroom and office are located in a traditional West Indies-style bamboo home situated on 12 acres of lush, tropical jungle. We host on our workshops and seminars in the classroom and make use of the space for afternoon lectures during field courses.
.jpeg)
Staff
Scientific Team
Katie Flynn
Project Manager
Jaaziel Garcia
Benthic Ecologist
Michelle Scharer
Data Analyst, Bioacoustics
Carlos Zayas
Bioacoustic Technician
Raymond Infante
Data Management
Gabriel Pecunia
Data Management
Raul Ortiz
Safety Diver, Videographer