Dr. Jennifer Seavey brings deep Maine family roots and more than two decades of leadership in marine science, conservation, and community-centered coastal resilience across the Gulf of Maine and beyond. A seasoned executive, Jennifer has advanced mission-driven organizations through data-informed strategy, collaborative science, and strong relationship building.
Most recently, Jennifer served as Chief Programs Officer at the Island Institute, leading its Marine Economy & Climate and Community centers and strengthening the organization’s approach to climate adaptation, coastal economic resilience, and community-driven solutions.
Previously, Jennifer spent nearly a decade as the John M. Kingsbury Executive Director of the Shoals Marine Laboratory, the country’s largest undergraduate marine lab operated by Cornell University and University of New Hampshire on Appledore Island, Maine. In this role, she grew the budget and staff, expanded student enrollment, increased research programs, modernized marine operations, and earned national recognition for advancing safety, experiential learning, and equity in field science.
A champion of education and community engagement, Jennifer has taught and mentored hundreds of students, strengthened connections between coastal communities and science, and co-founded regional initiatives such as the Northeast Coastal Stations Alliance. She has held board and leadership roles with the Regional Association for Research in the Gulf of Maine, the New Hampshire Nature Conservancy, and the Working Waterfront Coalition in Maine.
Jennifer holds a Ph.D. in Natural Resource Conservation from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, an M.S. in Wildlife Science from the University of Washington, and a B.S. in Biology from Lewis & Clark College. Her work has been featured in national outlets including PBS NewsHour, CBS Sunday Morning, Science Magazine, Maine Public Radio, and National Audubon Magazine.
Throughout her career, Jennifer has been recognized for their leadership in climate resilience, organizational strategy, program innovation, and community partnership. She brings to the Wells Reserve a deep commitment to coastal stewardship, science-based decision-making, and collaborative solutions that support both ecosystems and the communities that depend on them.