Meet the Team

Each member of our organization has a unique contribution. Our board members are involved and willing to serve, we couldn't be what we are today without them and our supporters. Thank you!
Our board members include: Ashley B.Chelberg (Miller)- President & Senior Researcher, Elizabeth Viau- Chairperson and Chief Research Advisor, Melissa M. Meisenburg- Research and education outreach lead, Yagen Gutierrez-Director Researcher ,Lorraine Schulte - Treasurer,  Jenny Ryan-Director, Hope Leonard-Director.

Ashley Britt Chelberg (Miller) 
Founding President and Senior Researcher. 
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Hi future scientists! Here is a little bit about myself: I graduated from Nova Southeastern University, home of the Guy Harvey Research Institute in Dania Beach, Florida with a double Master's degree in the fields of Marine Biology and Coastal Zone Management. My Master's program was focused on water quality research and genetics, as well as Elasmobranchs. I am a resident of Melbourne Beach, Florida, which is also my hometown. I really enjoy being a mom of 4 tiny humans, surfing, tennis, running, diving, and teaching young people about the marine and coastal ecosystems. One of my favorite marine animals is the shark; all species are awesome, but most of all I love the Bullshark. Yes, don't worry, elasmobranch and turtles are pretty close at the same level of admiration from me! I started Stella Maris Environmental Research in order to share science with all of you! 

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Elizabeth Viau
Chairperson and Chief Research Advisor.
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​My name is Liz Viau. I finished up a Masters of Science at the College of Marine Science in Marine Resource Assessment. Before I moved to the Tampa area, I lived in Fort Lauderdale, Florida where I earned a Bachelor’s degree and a Masters degree in Marine Biology at Nova Southeastern University. I LOVE fishes and have spent most of my time in school learning about how to protect their populations using Artificial Reefs and Marine Protected Areas. At USF, I study artificial reefs using data analysis and ecological modeling. This branch of fisheries science is very important for the conservation of our essential ocean resources. When I am not in school, I love to spend time outside with my two Australian Shepherds, Chloe and Kaia and mostly my newest son. They love to go hiking, paddle boarding, and to the beach with their mom and dad.  I am very excited to share my love for science!

Melissa M. Meisenburg
Researcher & educational outreach and coordinator Director.

Melissa is an exceptional marine biologist and spends a lot of time helping us with all things sea turtles as well as teaching budding scientists in the Science Explorers program. As an educator, Melissa provides young minds with useful and interesting information while having fun!

Yagen Gutierrez
Advisor. 

​A note from Yagen: I have a Masters in Marine and Coastal Studies from NOVA Southeastern University. I have worked doing rescue/rehabilitation of manatees and sea turtles for over 3 years at Miami Seaquarium and also trained Antarctic Gentoo and King Penguins in Dubai, UAE. I have a huge passion for education and have taught preschool in different states and also for the education department at Miami Seaquarium. I love teaching about conservation and the environment! 

Lorraine Schulte
Treasurer. 
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 As Treasurer I hope to help create more opportunities for our youth to learn about marine science!
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Hope Leonard
Director 
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Hope is committed to helping her local community and supporting each aspect!
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Jenny Ryan
Director 
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Jenny is a wonderful asset to our board!

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Andrew McCarthy
Project Management Lead
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Julia Weinbrecht
Naturalist
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Educational Support Team
A very large thank you to Leslie Frank, Laura Harris and Joy Winet (Sea Turtle Night walks).