MEET THE TEAM
CLAIRE OLSON
Secretary/Beach Clean Up Coordinator
Ever since I was little my heart was tied to the ocean. In the second grade I told my dad to quit his job so he could help me save the ocean. Junior year of high school I created a ocean conservation club called Team Blue and even though I was the one informing my peers about the ocean and it’s importance, I was the one learning the most. In those last two years of high school I learned my passion for education and the ocean. Currently, I’m at UCSD as a senior planning to get a Marine Biology degree with a Science Education minor to further the spread of ocean awareness.
CASSIE PAUMARD
Founder, CEO, Marine Biologist
I was raised with the privilege of witnessing the duality of power and beauty the ocean possesses. The ocean has shown and taught me so much about the fauna that call it home, about humans, and about myself. I'm grateful to say the ocean is my passion in life, and why I strive to better understand it and protect it.
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I started Project Kolika with a goal in mind: to connect more people with the misunderstood world below the surface.
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Having graduated from UCSD/Scripps Institution of Oceanography with a bachelors in marine biology, I started my independent research on our local Shortfin Mako sharks, in order to better preserve this ecologically important animal. I'm hoping I can enlighten others to see the beauty and mystery of our oceanic world to further inspire its protection.
LANA LIPPE
Board Director
Growing up in San Diego, I spent my free time exploring the kelp forests alongside the leopard sharks and sea lions, sparking a lifelong appreciation for the ocean. Currently, I'm an undergraduate Marine Science major at UCSB and have been actively involved with Project Kolika since my freshman year of high school. My current research interests surround anthropogenic influences on marine ecosystems, and a fascination with shark conservation. I am especially intrigued by how their status as a misunderstood species has hindered the effectiveness of protection efforts.
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Beyond research, I am passionate about underwater photography and filmmaking as powerful tools for storytelling and raising awareness about environmental issues. As an avid SCUBA and freediver, I love getting more people out on the water and excited about the ocean.
A certified scuba diver since 1973 and an instructor since 2012, I bring decades of experience exploring and teaching the art of diving. My passion is driven by a lifelong commitment to ocean education and conservation. As an Ocean Mentor, I strive to inspire others to develop a deep respect for the marine environment and to take an active role in its preservation. I am also a dedicated advocate of Project Kolika, supporting its mission to protect and restore our oceans through awareness, education, and action.
GERARDO (GERRY) SAHAGÚN
Ocean Exploration Mentor - Scuba Instructor
NICOLE MORRIS
Data Analyst Intern
Nicole Morris is an elasmobranch biologist and science communicator based in San Diego, CA. Growing up in the most biodiverse county in the United States, it's only natural that Nicole's academic journey began with a fascination with her local wildlife, particularly sharks and rays. Her research interests encompass a broad spectrum, including shark and ray biology, stress physiology, movement ecology, and social behaviors. Additionally, she harbors a deep-seated love for the ecology of her home of Southern California and is committed to developing efforts that get local communities involved in conservation.
She was accepted into the Advanced Inquiry Program and Miami University in 2021, and will graduate with her MA in biology 2024. In her program, she received hands-on education and training in field research, effective community conservation strategies, and many other valuable skills in addition to her biological studies.