Chantal Audran
Executive Director, Tybee Marine Science CenterChantal Audran is the Executive Director of the Tybee Marine Science Center, where she leads educational and conservation initiatives focused on Georgia’s coastal ecosystems. Since joining the Center in 2011, she has served as a marine science educator, curator, and conservation program manager. She developed the Center’s “Sidewalk to the Sea” program and established protocols for its catch-and-release animal collection program. Chantal is also active in sea turtle and marine mammal stranding response efforts in collaboration with Georgia DNR.
Mona Behl
Associate Director, Georgia Sea GrantMona Behl is a senior public service associate and the Associate Director of Georgia Sea Grant at the University of Georgia. She leads strategic initiatives to build coastal resilience through research, education, and public engagement. Mona holds a Ph.D. in physical oceanography from Florida State University and has held leadership roles in national scientific organizations, developing programs that bridge science and policy.
Kyle Craig
Microbiology Laboratory Supervisor, Piedmont Water CompanyKyle Craig is the Microbiology Laboratory Supervisor at Piedmont Water Company, where he oversees operations at a state-certified drinking water lab. He conducts testing for contaminants such as Total Coliform, E. coli, microcystins, and trihalomethanes. His work supports the safety and quality of drinking water systems across middle Georgia.
Kelli L. Edwards
Environmental Quality Education Manager, Fulton County GovernmentKelli L. Edwards is a marine scientist and environmental educator for Fulton County, where she develops programs to increase public awareness of water-related environmental issues. She also works to provide underserved communities with access to marine education, including scuba diving and field-based experiences. Kelli is a member of the National Association of Black Scuba Divers and co-founder of Rogue Renegades, a media group using film to share marine science.
Colby Peffer
Stewardship Program Coordinator, Georgia-DNR Sapelo Island NERRColby Peffer is the Stewardship Program Coordinator at the Sapelo Island National Estuarine Research Reserve, where she works on habitat management, restoration, sustainability, and public access projects. She holds a B.S. in Oceanography from Cal Poly Humboldt and an M.S. in Marine Sciences from the University of Georgia. Colby also serves on the boards of the Georgia Native Plant Society and other nonprofits.
Charles Pennington
Director of Human Resources, Georgia Ports AuthorityCharles Pennington is the Director of Human Resources at the Georgia Ports Authority, where he oversees workforce strategy and HR operations for a team of over 1,800. A Savannah native, Charles has over a decade of HR leadership experience and holds certifications from SHRM and HRCI. He earned his MBA from Georgia Southwestern State University and is an avid golfer.
Sarah Porter
Chapter Director, Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary FoundationSarah currently serves as the Chapter Director for Gray’s Reef with the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation, based in Savannah. With over 15 years of experience in development and building partnerships, Sarah is dedicated to inspiring support for our marine ecosystems. Most recently she was the Director of Innovative Philanthropy at Hope for Haiti, where she not only spearheaded all northeast fundraising campaigns but also launched the organization’s pioneering Virtual Reality (VR) project, allowing users to virtually explore a school in rural Haiti. Sarah’s commitment to service includes over two years as a Peace Corps volunteer in the Republic of Macedonia, followed by founding the New York City Peace Corps Association. A new SCUBA diver and avid kayaker, she also co-produces short documentaries about nature in urban environments.
Courtney Reich
Coastal Director, Georgia ConservancyCourtney Reich is the Coastal Director for the Georgia Conservancy, where she leads coastal policy and engagement initiatives, including the South Atlantic Salt Marsh Initiative. Prior to joining the Conservancy, Courtney was an environmental consultant focused on stormwater management and land use planning. She holds a BS in Geology from Tufts University and an MS in Marine Science from the University of Galway, Ireland.
Katy Smith
Public Service Assistant & Water Resources Specialist, Georgia Sea GrantKaty Smith is a Public Service Assistant with Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant, where she serves as the Water Resources Specialist. She has over 25 years of experience educating communities about Georgia’s coastal water resources and leads initiatives in conservation, outreach, and community science. Katy holds a BS in Ecology from UGA and is currently pursuing graduate studies in Educational Psychology.