Oceana, the world’s largest ocean conservation organization, announced new leadership for its Board of Directors. Actor and long-time Oceana Board Member Sam Waterston was elected Chair, succeeding Valarie Van Cleave, and María Eugenia Girón was elected Vice Chair, succeeding actor Ted Danson.
“Sam and Maria will be excellent leaders of Oceana’s board, helping us win science-based policies that protect and restore the world’s oceans,” Oceana CEO Andrew Sharpless said. “Thank you to Valarie and Ted for their steadfast leadership these past two years and commitment to Oceana’s mission.”
Sam Waterston is an award-winning actor and has served on Oceana’s board of directors for over a decade. Waterston is a tireless advocate for Oceana’s campaigns, and has testified before national legislatures regarding the prevention of shark finning and the expansion of offshore drilling. He also been a featured speaker (and spokesperson) for Oceana with press around the world, at Oceana’s marquee events and for its campaigns, including a recent Oceana public service announcement calling attention to the dangers of ocean plastic pollution and Oceana’s campaign to pressure companies to provide consumers with plastic-free choices.