7 Seas Collective inspires a global community of coastal citizens dedicated to the stewardship of marine ecosystems through citizen science, education, and connection. Our mission aims to change mindsets through education, gain a better understanding of our changing coastal ecosystems, and shape policies that protect our oceans and foster a sustainable future for marine life and coastal communities.
Founder & CEO
Hi I'm Jessy! I'm a SCUBA instructor with a Bachelors of Science in Environmental Science and Resource Management. Effectively communicating science, especially coastal/marine science, is what sets my heart on fire. Growing up driving distance from the coast and now living near the water, I've seen our beaches change shape and, in some cases, completely disappear. I've dedicated my life to being a strong voice for our natural resources in an array of ways. It's my goal for 7 Seas Co. to create a space that is comfy and inviting for all people to talk about coastal and climate science. I hope to spark a deeper connection and care for our coast and global waters through our work at 7 Seas.
jessy@7seascollective.org
Vice President/Secretary/Board Member
I’m Catherine, the Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Board Member of 7 Sea Collective! As a Redondo Beach native and LMU alumni, I’ve dedicated my career to marine conservation, with a focus on research, logistics, fundraising, and design. I’m also a mindfulness and yoga teacher, passionate about environmental sustainability and the well-being of both people and the planet. I love animals, especially my huskies, and believe deeply in the importance of protecting our oceans and ecosystems. Through my role at 7 Seas Co., my goal is to unite our community, foster education on ocean conservation, and inspire collective action to protect marine life for future generations.
Development Director/Treasurer/Board Member
I'm Michael Berns, 7 Sea's Development Director! I am an experienced program director, educator, and operations leader with a strong background in environmental initiatives, grant writing, and event management. With expertise in historical research, ethnographic fieldwork, and multilingual communication, I have led impactful programs with several nonprofits in California and around the globe. I am a surfer, dessert enthusiast, and artist in a wise range of medias including creating mosaic art from recycled aluminum cans and other recycled material.
Our Partners
Crystal leads the Marine Biology Program at Los Angeles Pierce College, which offers more courses than almost any other community college in California. She is deeply committed to teaching students about Southern California’s diverse marine habitats while equipping them with the practical skills needed for careers in the field. Her research background includes work on climate change, kelp forests, and aquaculture.
Assistant Professor of Teacher Education
Heather Clark is an assistant professor of Teacher Education at CSU Dominguez Hills. She collaborates with teachers and educational partners to understand and advance ambitious and equitable science education with a focus on climate and environmental justice pedagogy. As a lifelong Los Angeles resident, Heather is passionate about place-based learning and working side-by-side with teachers to re-imagine schooling for socioecological justice.
“Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.”
-Dr Seuss, The Lorax