The Western Los Angeles County Council, Scouting America, has named Marslaidh Ryan as the next director of Camp Emerald Bay. Ryan is the former chief operating officer and aquarium director at Heal the Bay. Camp Emerald Bay is the council’s ocean-focused camp on the west side of Catalina Island. Ryan started Nov. 2.
Ryan brings more than two decades of experience in marine science, aquarium leadership and experiential education. At Heal the Bay, a Santa Monica-based environmental nonprofit, she held leadership roles across the organization. She directed its aquarium beneath the Santa Monica Pier, which welcomes more than 100,000 visitors a year. She also partnered with public agencies on restoration projects for critically endangered species.
“Marslaidh has spent her career helping young people discover the ocean and understand why it matters,” said Lee Harrison, the council’s Scout executive and CEO. “That is exactly what Camp Emerald Bay is about. Her experience in marine science, education and conservation makes her a great fit to lead the camp and its programs.”
Founded in 1925, the camp gives young people opportunities to explore the ocean and build skills through outdoor adventure. Activities include boating, scuba and marine science education. The camp serves about 18,000 youths a year.
The camp is home to the Pennington Marine Science Center, which opened in 2004. The center features a 6,000-gallon seawater system showcasing local marine life. It offers hands-on learning opportunities that introduce young people to marine ecosystems and conservation.
Ryan will also lead the Emerald Bay Outdoor Academy, which the council launched in 2018. The academy provides educational programs for public and private school students. It now serves thousands of students from across the country each year.
“There’s nothing like watching a young person discover marine life firsthand and begin to understand why the ocean is worth protecting,” Ryan said. “Camp Emerald Bay offers that opportunity in one of the most remarkable settings on the West Coast. I’m honored to help create experiences that connect young people with the natural world.”
Ryan is a former Girl Scout and Venturing participant. She spent years working as a divemaster on Catalina Island. She holds a bachelor’s degree in fisheries and wildlife conservation from Oregon State University.
Edited by SMDP Staff