This year, local leaders in business, academia, science, and the community came together and contributed at levels that were meaningful to them. Together, they raised $380,000, which will go directly to provide one-of-a-kind hands-on experiences for young people traditionally excluded from science. Their event’s success was made possible by the support of their organizing committee, which includes their past Board Chair and current Board Cabinet member, Sean Caddell.
“I have been involved with Ocean Discovery since its beginning 25 years ago, and I am so proud of our accomplishments, changing the lives of students and the community. Reflecting on our past efforts, I acknowledge our substantial work. Looking forward, I am confident this organization will continue transforming more young lives through science. All the young leaders I see returning to the organization and leading impress me. I am so proud of everyone involved.” – Sean Caddell, Ocean Discovery Board Cabinet Member
The night was very special because of the community’s amazing support and emcee, Merveille Kouekabakilaho, program alumni who joined Ocean Discovery programs in high school. Merveille spent her childhood living in a refugee camp in the Republic of the Congo, and at the age of 16, she migrated to City Heights and soon after joined Ocean Discovery.
“My story eventually took me out of the camp—out of the war—and here to City Heights. I wanted to improve my English, so I joined every program I could in high school, including Ocean Discovery, where I found my voice and the confidence to share it. I found my voice doing sea turtle research in Baja when I taught a group of visitors about our project and how we collect our data. I also found my voice through writing reflections with our Writer-in-Residence, Amy Wallen. I began to feel confident and empowered to pursue science and use my voice to help others.” – Merveille Kouekabakilaho, program alum and phlebotomist
Their guests had the amazing opportunity to bid on a dream getaway to Hawaii at the Owen- Hauser Royal Palms Estate, a Sunset Cruise on a luxury yacht with a Steak and Lobster Dinner on San Diego Bay, a dinner for 10 at the Living Lab, and other amazing opportunities.
SPLASH! was made possible by their sponsors, including their title sponsor Southwest Airlines, Bumble Bee Seafood Company, Hologic, Procopio, Neurocrine Biosciences, SDG&E, Sycuan, and other generous sponsors.
To learn more about Ocean Discovery Institute or to make a tax-deductible donation, visit www.oceandiscoveryinstitute.org or call 619-795-8365.