Alaska SeaLife Center Fills Two New Executive Leadership Positions
Alaska SeaLife Center
The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) in Seward created two new executive leadership positions and selected John Fraser and Neisha Jones to fill them.
Fraser, a noted international conservation psychologist and architect, comes aboard as the center’s new Director of Mission Impact. Fraser works alongside Wei Ying Wong, ASLC’s chief science and education officer, to advance social science research, evaluation, and monitoring. Fraser leads strategies that use scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems.
“We are lucky to have someone of the caliber of Dr. Fraser join us. With his vast experience we will be able to accelerate the ability of ASLC to expand our impact and lean into our leadership role,” says Wong.
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Fraser has led research on the social value of zoos and aquariums. His book with Tawnya Switzer, The Social Value of Zoos, is considered a definitive work on how the zoo and aquarium movement can advance conservation. He founded the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Research and Technology Committee and has continued service on that committee for the past fifteen years.
Alaska SeaLife Center
Human factors are also a focus for Jones as ASLC’s first Director of People and Culture. In this new position, Jones serves as the organizational lead for all human resources and diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion functions.
Jones is a certified human resources professional with more than ten years of experience in the nonprofit, public, and education sectors. They have worked with national organizations in labor relations, talent strategy, leadership development, and strategic planning.
“People and culture are core determinants of our success as an organization, and ASLC is committed to attracting and retaining top talent,” says Tara Riemer, ASLC president and CEO. “Neisha Jones’ expertise will really help us advance our culture of equity, excellence, and belonging and help create a safe place for all to explore the wonders of Alaska’s marine ecosystems.”
In addition to their new role at ASLC, Jones serves as board president for New Life Development and as a board member for Best Beginnings.
“I’m most looking forward to defining what it means to model a culture of belonging at ASLC where staff feel empowered to bring their whole selves to work. Empowered staff are productive stewards of our organization, respective communities, and ultimately great stewards of Alaska’s marine ecosystems,” Jones says.
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