Aquarium of the Pacific Is a World-Class Institution Housing More Than 11,000 Board of Directors Animals and Attracting 1.6 Million Visitors Annually

Aquarium of the Paciﬁ c 2015 Annual Report 2

Robin Riggs Message from the Chairman and President

The Aquarium of the Pacific is a world-class institution housing more than 11,000 board of directors animals and attracting 1.6 million visitors annually. Each year about 200,000 schoolchil- Mr. Stephen I. Chazen, dren and teachers are introduced to the latest in science education and the wonders of vice chairman Mr. David Cohen the ocean. Everyone who walks through our doors encounters engaging messages about Mr. Craig Cooning conservation and humans’ relationship with our planet. Each exhibit, show, and program is Ms. Kathleen Eckert designed to promote ocean literacy and increase the public’s awareness of issues affecting Mrs. Charlotte Ginsburg the environment. Ms. Jennifer Hagle, But the Aquarium is also an institution that goes beyond the scope of a traditional board secretary aquarium or science center. It is our goal to create an aquarium that conserves and builds Mr. James C. Hankla Mr. Russell T. Hill nature and nature’s services by building social capital, the interactions between and Mr. Samuel King among peoples. The Aquarium is a place where leaders in the scientific community come Ms. Corinne Laverty to share their latest research and interact with the public to examine our relationship to Mr. Bert Levy our planet and develop solutions to the pressing environmental problems we face as we Mr. Steven Mayer look to the future. A burgeoning human population and a changing climate make this Mr. John Molina, chairman particularly critical. Dr. J. Mario Molina To bring the public into this dialogue, the Aquarium offers a year-round Guest Speaker Mr. Stephan Morikawa Series, Aquatic Academy courses each spring and fall, a vibrant calendar of visual and Mr. Stephen Olson Mr. Douglas Otto performing arts programs that interpret science concepts, multiple volunteer citizen Mr. Mark Paullin science opportunities, high-tech learning tools like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Dr. Jerry R. Schubel Administration’s (NOAA) Science on a Sphere®, and live webcasts with experts. Mr. Kurt Schulzman In 2015 the Aquarium offered many opportunities for the public to learn more about our Mr. Michael Sondermann planet, engage with leading thinkers and policymakers, and contribute to conversations Mr. Arlo Sorensen surrounding ocean and environmental issues. You can read more about these programs Mr. Thomas Turney and events on pages 4 and 5. Mr. Stephen Young

The Aquarium has the ties to leading scientists, policymakers, and science commu- executive officers nicators and the robust base of supporters to take the next step and become the most Dr. Jerry R. Schubel, distinctive aquarium in the country. These will all come to fruition in Pacific Visions, the president and CEO Aquarium’s planned front wing dedicated to investigating how our actions will affect our Mr. Anthony T. Brown, vice president of finance/CFO, planet's future. The Aquarium could not make this bold move continuing its seventeen- interim vice president year history of bringing science to the public without the ongoing support of our guests, of development members, partners, and donors. Ms. Cecile Fisher, vice president of marketing and communications/ corporate secretary

Aquarium Senior Staff Mr. Perry Hampton, vice president of husbandry Ms. Kathie Nirschl, vice president of human resources John C. Molina Jerry R. Schubel, Ph.D. Mr. John Rouse, vice president of operations Chairman, Board of Directors President & CEO Mr. Ryan Ashton, director of development Mr. David Bader, director of education Ms. Marilyn Padilla, director of public relations Mr. Jeff Spofford, director of retail Ms. Tina Sarty, controller

(as of 12/31/15)

3 Vision Our vision is to create an aquarium dedicated to conserving and building natural capital, nature and nature’s services, by building social capital, the interactions between and among peoples.

Partnership Facilitated Forum on Aquaculture Exploration of the Ocean’s Future Brought Together Key Players The Aquarium has long partnered with geographic The Aquarium held a forum in April 2015 to develop information systems (GIS) mapping firm Esri to help the frames of reference and rationale for an offshore translate current ocean science for the public. In 2015 finfish aquaculture industry in Southern California. Esri presented its Special Achievement in GIS Award to Participants included researchers and representa- the Aquarium in recognition of its innovative use of Esri’s tives from state and federal government agencies, GIS technology in its exhibits and online story maps for universities, environmental groups, and the commercial public outreach. Also in 2015 Esri asked the Aquarium fishing industry. Workshop participants were asked to contribute a chapter to a book of peer-reviewed to share and prioritize concerns regarding the com- scientific papers on the latest ocean science. The book, plex, high-stakes environmental and resource issues Ocean Solutions, Earth Solutions, presents research often associated with coastal development activities. from the inaugural Esri Ocean GIS Forum. It includes While permitting remains a prolonged and uncertain sixteen papers that showcase the latest and best ocean process for offshore farms in California, all workshop and coastal science using spatial analysis and GIS. The participants were asked to work together to formulate Aquarium’s chapter is significant in that it was the only specific recommendations to improve the process one contributed by an informal science institution. In for reviewing permits and obtaining approvals for addition, the Aquarium’s president chaired the opening aquaculture development projects. The forum report panel of the 2015 Esri Ocean GIS Conference. is available on the Aquarium’s website by searching In February 2015 as part of its Guest Speaker Series “offshore aquaculture.” the Aquarium hosted a conversation between Jack Dangermond, founder and president of Esri and Aquarium Advised City recipient of the Aquarium’s Ocean Conservation Award, on Climate Resiliency and Richard Saul Wurman, architect and creator of The Aquarium delivered a comprehensive report TED and TEDMED conferences and the recipient of the to City of Long Beach leadership detailing best prac- Lifetime Achievement Award from the Cooper-Hewitt, tices in creating a climate-resilient city. The Aquarium Smithsonian Design Museum in New York City. These gathered experts to identify those aspects of climate two leaders discussed the roles of maps, map-making, change to which Long Beach is most vulnerable, assess and GIS in charting a course to a better future. Wurman the extent of the vulnerabilities, and evaluate ways partnered with Esri to develop the Urban Observatory, of mitigating and adapting to them. Based upon this an exhibit and app that allows users to examine and analysis, the City will translate the findings into specific compare characteristics of cities to design better strategies and incorporate them into its plan. ones for the future. The Aquarium demonstrated the Urban Observatory and its capabilities on the Aquarium Hosted Ocean Exploration Hub in the Tropical Pacific Gallery State Department’s Fishackathon throughout the year. The U.S. Department of State partnered with the Aquarium and its Seafood for the Future program to host the second annual international Fishackathon at the Aquarium in June. The goal of Fishackathon is to Aquarium solve the growing challenges throughout the seafood President supply chain. The event calls for coders to create new Speaks at CERF applications and tools for mobile devices and phones Conference that will help provide information in real-time to help fishermen work smarter, safer, and more sustainably. Jerry Schubel gave a presentation at the Coastal and Estuarine Research Federation’s 2015 conference in November called Designing the Coast for the Future to Effectively Deal with Multiple Stressors.

4 Aquarium President Appointed to of the Environment and Sustainability at the University California Ocean Science Trust Board of California, Los Angeles, and Jerry Schubel. Other Jerry Schubel was appointed in July to a two-year notable events included the continuation of the Future initial term on the Board of Trustees of the California of Food series with Los Angeles Times Food Columnist Ocean Science Trust. Schubel serves as one of eight Russ Parsons and a series on sea level rise in conjunc- trustees appointed by the state’s Secretary of Natural tion with the Sink or Swim: Designing for a Sea Change Resources and recommended for their broad knowl- exhibition from the Annenberg Space for Photography edge of ocean resource management and science. (see page 12). The California Ocean Science Trust is an independent nonprofit that works across the traditional boundaries Evening Courses between government, science, and communities to Involved Public in Policy Questions build trust and understanding in ocean and coastal sci- In 2015 the Aquarium held two sessions in its Aquatic ence. It submits annual reports to the State Legislature, Academy series of evening courses for adults. In the providing independent science to policymakers to spring session, attendees learned about the case for direct decisions made about the coast and ocean ocean exploration and the future of humans’ relation- with the goal of maintaining a healthy, resilient, and ship with the ocean. They met modern-day ocean productive ocean for the benefit of current and future explorers and learned what potential the ocean holds, generations. It also serves as an information resource from undiscovered life forms to natural resources, and for the public. which technologies might play a role in helping us better understand our World Ocean and life on our planet. Vaquita In the fall attendees were presented with solutions for meeting the needs of a growing human population and Awareness demand for food through aquaculture. They inter- The vaquita is a small acted with scientists and experts to learn more about porpoise native to the aquaculture’s role in meeting the growing seafood Gulf of California. It is the most endangered demand, discussed the conservation implications marine mammal in of marine aquaculture, and joined in the discussion the world. Scientists estimate that fewer on California’s potential role in stimulating a national than 100 still inhabit aquaculture program.

Paula O lsen/ NOAA Paula the gulf. Aquarium Celebrated Cultural Heritage Seafood for the Future and Achievements With Festival Honorees Raised Awareness of the Vaquita The Aquarium has a robust cal- Seafood for the Future, the Aquarium’s sustainable endar of cultural festivals and seafood program, launched public outreach efforts to special events that bring the Festival raise awareness of the vaquita, an endangered small local community together Honorees porpoise native to the Gulf of California. These efforts to celebrate our diversity, 2015 honor- included hosting a panel of experts at the Aquarium as learn about each other, ees included California State part of its Guest Speaker Series and helping to create a and connect people and Senator Ricardo public service announcement about the vaquita. With the environment. These Lara, pictured fewer than 100 individuals remaining, the vaquita is the events provide an opportu- here with Jerry Schubel. most endangered marine mammal in the world and nity for the Aquarium to honor has the potential to represent a story of tragedy or of a individuals and organizations hopeful future. The archived panel discussion, featuring that have contributed to the community through ser- experts from NOAA, World Wildlife Fund Mexico, and vice, education, advocacy, and special achievements. the seafood industry, can be found on the Aquarium’s In 2015 honorees included California State Senator website by searching “saving the vaquita.” Ricardo Lara for his work in environmental and social arenas, Aquarium volunteer and middle school student Guest Speaker Series Served as Platform Caroline Edmonds for her science project investigating for Regional and National Thought Leaders flashlight fish and bioluminescence, educator Jacque In 2015 the Aquarium’s ongoing Guest Speaker Series Tahuka-Nuñez for her work to share the history and continued to provide a platform for scientists, authors, perspectives of Southern California’s indigenous and other experts to share their knowledge with the peoples, and Thakhin Bwor for his work to connect the public and explore important topics affecting our expatriate community of Myanmar through his publica- future. In September Jon Christensen, editor-in-chief of tions and websites. Boom: A Journal of California, moderated a conversation on California’s leadership in the Pacific world with Peter Kareiva, the newly appointed director of the Institute

5 tesy of E HDD tesy r Cou

Pacific Visions Donors The new Pacific Visions wing will be one of the most powerful as of December 31, 2015 $5,000,000+ $10,000+ venues in the world for communicating the challenges our Anonymous Tamara Achauer and Terrance Hodel $3,000,000+ Amgen Foundation ocean faces and the opportunities it holds. It will embolden the City of Long Beach Matching Gifts and Staff Volunteer Programs $1,000,000+ Aquarium of the Pacific Aquarium’s message, it will empower our visitors to do more for Anonymous Staff Campaign 2015 Dr. Allen and Charlotte Begin Today for Tomorrow our planet, and it will redefine what an aquarium can and should Ginsburg Anthony T. Brown James and Marilyn Simons Corrine and Rocky Laverty The Thomas and Dorothy do. When the Pacific Visions expansion is complete in late 2018, $500,000+ Leavey Foundation Anonymous Northrup Grumman Chip Conley John and Lyn Pohlmann the Aquarium will have the capacity to serve 2 million visitors Kenneth T. and Eileen L. SeaRiver Maritime, Inc. Norris Foundation The Shadden Group at annually. This represents an unprecedented opportunity to The Rose Hills Foundation Morgan Stanley Jeanne B. Sleeper $250,000+ In honor of Tom Turney educate the public about the relationship between humans and Anonymous Steve and Marlene Young “ American Honda Motor Co., Inc. $5,000+ the World Ocean and to motivate people of all ages to act.” Esther S. M. Chui Chao Age of Aquariums Confidence Foundation William Ashburn and LGA Family Foundation Sandra Smart-Ashburn — Dr. Jerry R. Schubel Los Angeles County The Eli and Edythe Board of Supervisors Broad Foundation Pacific Life Foundation James C. and Jorene Hankla George W. Harben $150,000+ Jon and Margie Masterson The Boeing Company Norman and Suzanne California Resources Metcalfe Design Corporation Carlotta Neri Edison International Kathie Nirschl EHDD, the architectural firm that designed the Aquarium’s original Schulzman-Neri Foundation building, completed the construction drawings for the project in 2015. $100,000+ $1,000+ Bob and Jennifer Hagle Anonymous (2) This involved detailing all of the floor plans and the 800-plus panels of The Hearst Foundations Robert and Debra Autrey Russ and Avalon Hill Ryan and Karen Autrey the biomorphic glass façade as well as identifying materials, fittings, Johnny Carson Foundation J. Sergio Bohon Quiksilver Foundation Andrew and Diana Cohen and fixtures. Tom Turney and Jill Boivin Carla Crespo Betty White Ludden Christopher Crespo Richard and Sandra Darling $50,000+ Theresa Duncan Exhibits Anonymous Colby and Brenda Durnin John Fielder and Cecile Fisher and Isaias Cortina Productions, the project’s media and technology exhibit Donita Van Horik Castellanos designer, worked on the vision, design, and intent of the Pacific Visions Keesal, Young & Logan Bill and Margie Gensemer The Kresge Foundation Perry Hampton Theater and some of the interactive exhibits for the changing exhibit Frank and Margie Newell Jack and Barbara Irvin Peter and Cathy Ridder Jasen J. Lewis gallery. Through a series of workshops and an “ideas lab,” a team of Jerry R. and Margaret David and Margaret H. Schubel Mgrublian Aquarium staff members and other designers and experts garnered ex- Alex and Margie Norman $25,000+ In memory of Ada hibit ideas and gauged understanding of the Aquarium’s audience and Evalyn M. Bauer Foundation Helen Penny Charles and Margaret Durnin Dorothy J. Reiner what they want to feel through the Pacific Visions experience. Through Bert Levy Wendy Rothman Henry and Paulette Matson Warren R. and Vonnie this collaborative work, the opening film and interactive exhibits were Steven and Niko Mayer A. Schulten J. Mario and Therese Molina Stiassani Family Foundation envisioned to be cinematic, futuristic, minimalist, and modern in design. Doug Otto and Freda Marian F. Tang Hinsche Otto William Waterhouse and Barbara Long

6 Sustainability The first stage of assessment with Green Globes®, in Visions will also produce its own energy through a clean which an assessor reviews all construction drawings, was energy fuel cell system, rather than drawing electricity conducted in 2015. The assessor verified the Aquarium from the local grid. Other sustainability features will include was on target to achieve 2 Globes®, which is equivalent to bird-friendly glass, energy efficient systems, recycling of LEED® Silver. Keeping with the Aquarium’s commitment to construction waste, LED lighting, and environmentally sustainability, the project is designed to achieve 24 percent friendly paints, carpets, adhesives, and sealants for clean reduction in energy compared to similar buildings. Pacific indoor air quality.

Donor Highlights

Molina Family Challenge Grant Pledge Pacific Life Foundation Longtime Aquarium supporters, the Molina family Since 2003 Pacific Life Foundation has partnered with stepped forward with a challenge grant of $5 million for the Aquarium to develop and implement innovative and Pacific Visions in January 2015. Board Director Mario Molina impactful programs that have ignited passion for science and his wife Therese and Board Chairman John Molina and and engaged Aquarium visitors in conversations about the his wife Michelle will match all donations up to $5 mil- future of our planet. The foundation contributed $250,000 to lion, which will help inspire individuals, corporations, and Pacific Visions in 2015, furthering this initiative and support- foundations to support the project. This challenge grant ing the new wing that will inspire millions of students and was given in honor of Jerry Schubel and in recognition of families from the greater Los Angeles-Orange County area. his visionary leadership and commitment to the ocean. The Hearst Foundations Charlotte and Allen Ginsburg The Hearst Foundations granted $100,000 to Pacific At the Aquarium’s October 2015 Board meeting, Board Visions. Its support will allow for innovative educational and Director Charlotte Ginsburg announced a $1 million gift cultural initiatives throughout the new gallery spaces. As to Pacific Visions from her and her husband, Dr. Allen Pacific Visions brings together arts and science, students Ginsburg. The couple has supported the Aquarium since will have the opportunity to find inspiration, to make obser- 2002 and named the Aquarium’s Members Entrance in vations and ask relevant questions, and to formulate ideas 2006. Charlotte has also served in a volunteer capacity as in an immersive, technology filled environment that encour- the co-chair of the Trustees of the Pacific for two years and ages conversations with peers and Aquarium educators. served on committees for the Aquarium's annual Gala, Sea Fare, and other special projects. Russ and Avalon Hill Aquarium Board Director Russ Hill furthered his commit- American Honda Motor Co., Inc. ment to the Aquarium with a $100,000 gift to the Pacific A founding Aquarium sponsor, American Honda Motor Visions wing from him and his wife, Avalon Hill. Serving Co., Inc., made a $350,000 contribution to the Pacific on the Aquarium’s Board of Directors since 1997, Hill has Visions wing in 2015. Honda has provided support to the provided support to many of the Aquarium’s initiatives, Aquarium’s environmental education and conservation ini- including the annual Sea Fare and Gala events. tiatives since the Aquarium opened, and their partnership is reflected throughout the Aquarium, including the Honda Blue Cavern exhibit. By advancing their support with this gift, Honda will continue to aid the Aquarium in engaging and educating millions of visitors each year.

Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors A $300,000 leadership gift from Fourth District Supervisor Don Knabe of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors in January 2015 provided pivotal support to Pacific Visions. Pacific Visions is a project that will meet the growing needs of Los Angeles County. Supervisor Knabe’s support will expose thousands of constituents from throughout the county to the most important environmental issues of our time.

7 Exhibits & Accolades The Aquarium's exhibits engage visitors and inspire them to become stewards of our ocean and environment. Up-to-date information is presented to connect the animals on display with current conservation issues.

Jellies Exhibits Mesmerized Aquarium Visitors In May 2015 the Aquarium opened new exhibits and programs highlighting sea jellies, with new species on display throughout the galleries and new jelly-themed educational programs, shows, lectures, and art projects. Visitors learned about jellies' role in the ocean, uses by humans, biology, reproductive cycle, habitats, conservation issues, and pervasive presence in the World Ocean. As part of the exhibit, the Aquarium launched a new interactive app called Jelly Lab, where users learn about jelly life cycles and how the Aquarium’s staff cares for sea jellies. Robin Riggs Robin

8 New Science on a Sphere Aquarium Renewed Presentations Address AZA Accreditation Ocean Radioactivity In March the Association of Zoos and Water Scarcity & Aquariums (AZA) announced The Aquarium created its that the Aquarium was granted twelfth and thirteenth shows accreditation by AZA’s indepen- for NOAA’s Science on a Sphere dent Accreditation Commission. in 2015. Fukushima and Our The Aquarium first received Radioactive Ocean, developed AZA accreditation in 2000 and in partnership with the Woods renewed in 2005, 2010, and 2015. Hole Oceanographic Institution To be accredited, the Aquarium and funded by the Gordon and Betty underwent a thorough review to Moore Foundation, examines the amount ensure it has and will continue to

New Science on a Sphere of naturally occurring radioactivity in the meet ever-rising standards for show, The World's Water. ocean and the impacts of the Fukushima animal care, veterinary programs, disaster. The World’s Water focuses on water conservation, education, and safe- as a precious natural resource and how people around the world, in both ty. AZA requires zoos and aquari- developing and developed countries, face water shortages. In some ums to successfully complete this places, shortage of freshwater is a looming crisis exacerbated by climate rigorous accreditation process change and a growing population. This show was developed in partner- every five years to maintain their ship with NOAA’s National Water Center. association membership.

Webcasts Brought Critical Aquarium Issues to Public and Press Earned The Aquarium hosted four live webcasts in 2015, sharing up-to-date TripAdvisor information on ocean and environmental issues with the public and 2015 Travelers’ members of the media. Expert speakers discussed their research and Choice Award answered questions. The Aquarium of the Pacific won a 2015 Travelers’ Choice • January 21: Officials from the meteorologist with the Scripps Award for Aquariums, as awarded Port of Long Beach and the Institution of Oceanography; and by TripAdvisor® travelers. The Port of Los Angeles discussed Patrick H. West, Long Beach city award appears on the Aquarium’s regulations aimed at improv- manager. They discussed sea TripAdvisor page. ing air quality and reducing level rise and its potential threats TripAdvisor recognizes the emissions that contribute to to Southern California, and West best in travel as awarded by its climate change. announced a collaborative proj- community of users through • March 11: Dr. Ken Buesseler, a ect led by the Aquarium to assess the Travelers’ Choice Award and senior scientist at Woods Hole Long Beach’s climate resiliency. the Certificate of Excellence. Oceanographic Institution, • October 7: In conjunction with Each award uses a proprietary discussed ocean radiation levels the opening of Water: Our Thirsty algorithm that takes into account and safety after the Fukushima World, an exhibition of photo- several factors, including the disaster, detailing ongoing graphs examining water scarcity reviews and opinions of travelers. monitoring efforts in Japan and and humans’ relationship with the United States to measure water, experts discussed water radioactive isotopes present in scarcity locally and globally ocean water and fish. and what people can do to help • June 1: Experts discussed sea respond to global water issues. level rise in conjunction with the This exhibition was organized opening of a new photography by the Annenberg Foundation. exhibition at the Aquarium, Speakers during the webcast Sink or Swim: Designing for included Camille Lowry, media a Sea Change, organized by relations and special event lead the Annenberg Space for for the Annenberg Foundation, Photography in Los Angeles. and Kevin Wattier, former gen- Speakers included Frances eral manager of the Long Beach Anderton, guest curator for the Water Department. exhibition; Dan Cayan, research Jerry Schubel speaks during a live webcast.

9 2015 Major Donors

The mission-driven programs mentioned throughout this annual report are made possible largely through contributions from individuals, foundations, corporations, and government partners. The Aquarium deeply appreciates and thanks the donors recognized here for their gifts and pledges.

$1,000,000+ Bob and Jennifer Hagle ∆ Gladstone's Long Beach * Steve L. Doty and Lori Allen and Charlotte Ginsburg * Corinne and Rocky Laverty ∆ * Robert Gordon ∆ * R. Cruz-Doty ∆ * Kenneth T. and Eileen L. Kevin Grossman * Colby and Brenda Durnin * $250,000+ Norris Foundation Josephine S. Gumbiner Edwards Lifesciences Foundation * American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Northrop Grumman Corporation * Foundation ∆ FreeConferenceCall.com * Anonymous Parker's Lighthouse * James C. and Jorene Hankla ∆ * Frederick and Leslie Gaylord ∆ * Supervisor Don Knabe, Los Premier George W. Harben Rocky and Deborah Gentner ∆ Angeles County Fourth Dwight Stuart Youth Fund * Ann M. Herring ∆ * Sandra B. George ∆ Supervisorial District * Union Pacific Railroad Bess J. Hodges Foundation James and Barbara Ghormley ∆ Pacific Life Foundation * Hans and Valerie Imhof ∆ * Jacky Glass ∆ $10,000+ Eunice Knight Saunders Foundation Ira Goldstone * Brad Lemons Foundation * John and Elizabeth Hancock ∆ $150,000+ Anonymous (2) Long Beach Area Convention Anonymous Bank of America Harbor Breeze Corp * & Visitors Bureau Tesoro Foundation * Martha and Faustino Bernadett The Morris A. Hazan BNSF Railway Company Long Beach Transit * Family Foundation * Jim and Liz Breslauer Margie and Jon Masterson ∆ * Nancy Higginson ∆ $100,000+ David and Kathryn Cohen * Henry and Paulette Matson Michael and Diane Jensen ∆ Dr. Mary Jane Adams * Dr. Dominic and Margaret Norman and Suzanne Metcalfe * Robert and April Juarez ∆ * The Hearst Foundations * DeCristofaro ∆ Carlotta Neri * K12 Inc * Russ and Avalon Hill ∆ * Kathleen Eckert ∆ * Nordstrom, Inc. Keiter Family Foundation * The Roddenberry Foundation * EHDD Architecture * P2S Engineering, Inc. Joel R. Kessler ∆ Tom Turney and Jill Boivin ∆ * Fluor Foundation * The Pepsi Bottling Group Terri Keville ∆ * The Ken and Debbie Anthony Pichardo and Kinder Morgan Foundation $50,000+ Johnson Foundation * Morgan Barrows ∆ * The Kleiner Cohen Foundation Bank of America Charitable Scott Jordan * Port of Long Beach Richard and Linda Landes ∆ * Foundation * Sam and Janet King ∆ PrimeSource Project Management * Trish and Don Lange ∆ BCM Foundation The Thomas and Dorothy The Reinhold Foundation * Harry Lewis ∆ The Boeing Company Leavey Foundation * Dr. Alan Robb and Dr. Los Angeles Rod and Reel Johnny Carson Foundation Long Beach Water Department * Guadalupe Padilla-Robb ∆ Club Foundation Edison International * Macy's ∆ Stewart F. Sexton ∆ Laura Davies Mateo ∆ * Lakeside Foundation * Michelle and John Molina ∆ Virginia Stover Cindy L. Matsumoto and Gary The Robert and Lisa Margolis Kathie Nirschl ∆ * TG Construction, Inc. Y. Matsumoto, Ed.D. ∆ Family Foundation * Susann H. Norton ∆ * William and Karen Timberlake ∆ * David and Margaret Mgrublian * The Miller Foundation Stephen and Brenda Olson * UPS Foundation * Cynthia and David Mirsky ∆ National Oceanic and Atmospheric Mark and Barbara Paullin ∆ * The Ward Familiy Peter Morin and Katrina Pelto ∆ Administration (NOAA), U.S. Kurt Schulzman and Richard Neri ∆ Whitney Young Children's Michael K. Nakashoji ∆ Department of Commerce * SeaRiver Maritime, Inc. * Foundation * NaviNet, Inc. * Peter and Cathy Ridder * Jeanne B. Sleeper * Frank and Margie Newell ∆ * ScholarShare California's 529 Michael and Mildred Sondermann ∆ $2,500+ Alan and Gayle Norbryhn ∆ College Savings Plan * Arlo G. Sorensen ∆ * AES * Alex and Margie Norman ∆ * Betty White Ludden ∆ Steinmetz Foundation * Raymond and Barbara Joan B. Pauloo ∆ * Steve and Marlene Young ∆ * Marlene Temple * Alpert Foundation * Peninsula Beach Total Wine & More * Amgen Foundation Matching Gifts Preservation Group * $25,000+ Ueberroth Family Foundation and Staff Volunteer Programs John F. Penny and Anonymous Union Bank Anonymous ∆ * Christopher Kurimoto ∆ Evalyn M. Bauer Foundation * Peri and Peg Urvek ∆ Bryant Arteaga and Laura Rivas ∆ * Russell R. and Julie A. Pohlers ∆ * Esther S. M. Chui Chao ∆ U.S. Bank Foundation * Kam Babaoff ∆ * Lyn and John Pohlmann ∆ The Green Foundation * Lisa and Renee Baird * Barbara A. Pollack and Gary Grimm and Linda $5,000+ Steve and Christine Bedrosian ∆ * John A. Burkholder ∆ Dakin-Grimm ∆ * 1st Choice, LLC * Barbara Bixby Blackwell ∆ * Dennis C. and Suzanne HCP, Inc. ABS Foundation, Inc. Jean Bixby Smith ∆ * M. Poulsen ∆ * Bert Levy ∆ * Age of Aquariums * Richard Boucher and Edward and Diana Putz ∆ * Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation Anonymous (2) Andrea Amram ∆ Joel and Lilya Reiss ∆ Mario and Therese Molina ∆ William Ashburn and Sandra Bonnie Brae ∆ * Mary C. Rooney ∆ * The Rudolph J. & Daphne Smart-Ashburn ∆ * James and Barbara Brownell ∆ Nicholas L. Saakvitne and A. Munzer Foundation Barbara L. Boswell ∆ * California Diving News/ Sharon L. Heritage ∆ Ralph and Hazel Osborn and Lois Charles Brewer Fiscus Foundation Scuba Show * Securitas Security Services J. Roork Charitable Trust * The Eli and Edythe Broad California Resources Corporation USA, Inc. ∆ * Douglas Otto and Freda Foundation * Catalina Express ∆ * Dave Shlemmer Hinsche Otto ∆ * Carnival Foundation Howard and Debbie Chambers ∆ John and Susan Shultz ∆ The Peck Family ∆ * Cemrock Landscapes ∆ Andrew and Diana Cohen ∆ * Richard and Luan Smith ∆ * Jerry R. and Margaret H. Schubel ∆ * City of Long Beach Stormwater/ Steve and Fran Conley ∆ * Sony Pictures Entertainment ∆ Secure Transportation ∆ * Environmental Division Crimson Pipeline, L.P. * Richard and Barbara Stratton ∆ * Woods Hole Oceanographic Colorvision International Inc. Richard and Sandra Darling * Alexandra and Terrence Sullivan ∆ * Institution * David C. Comer ∆ The Willametta K. Day Foundation * Scott Sweetow and Lisa Cortina Productions * DDR Corp. * Green-Sweetow ∆ $15,000+ The Foundation of the Family Norman and Diane Delaterre ∆ The Talbert Family Foundation ∆ * Tamara Achauer and of C.M. and Edna P. Cotton Gordon and Susan DesCombes University of Southern California * Terrance Hodel ∆ * Dr. Charles and Margaret Durnin ∆ DirecTV Matching Gift Center * Elizabeth D. Warman * Begin Today For Tomorrow * Ensemble Investments, LLC * Disney VoluntEARS Hilda Wax Foundation * The Capital Group Companies * Farmers & Merchants Bank Community Fund * The Weiler Foundation * Employees Community Fund Rani Fish and Family ∆ * Gilbert and Linda Dodson ∆ * Western Pacific Fisheries, Inc. of Boeing California Geof Garth ∆ * Isadore and Sadie Dorin Windes ∆ Edwin and Maryann Feo ∆ * The William Gillespie Foundation Foundation Inc. * Patrice Zamenhof ∆

10 $1,500+ Gary and Gretchen Marlotte ∆ Jasen Lewis * In Memory of George and Sara Abdo ∆ Lisa and Dolly Masui ∆ * Roy Lightbody Friends and family donated William and Monica Akerlof ∆ * Larry and Susan Maxson ∆ * Robert H. Lorsch Foundation * thoughtful gifts in memory of their Steven and Sheri Altieri ∆ Virginia McCallum Charitable Trust The Lukens Company loved ones, recognizing their love Anonymous (4) Alison McClure ∆ * Curtis Lyon * for the ocean and support of the Aon Foundation * Janet Mentzer ∆ * Mediaspot, Inc. Aquarium. All of us at the Aquarium Apple Inc. * Gail Meredith and Dean Garrison ∆ * Nancy and Chas Merrill ∆ extend our deepest sympathies Mark and Joyce Barnett ∆ Kent and Margaret Merryfield ∆ * Dr. Frank and Ione Murray to the family and friends of: Rob Bellevue and Margaret Smith Lisa Nerkowski ∆ * The Original Fish Company Aquarium Penguins Stan and Joann Benson * Robert and Kathleen Nickell * Restaurant * Noodles and Elvis Jeffrey Bernardin and Robin Nielson and Dorothy J. Reiner * Josie Cabiglio Denise Gomez ∆ * Zachary Dobisky ∆ Reynolds Family Foundation Red-Eared Slider Clarence Cahill Mark S. Bertrand and Rosanne O'Brien ∆ Matt Rezvani * Lou Canut Robert K. Stanton Ocean Adventure Dentistry * Mark and Edna Rockenmacher * John Chuang Yvonne M. Bogdanovich ∆ * One World One Ocean Foundation * James and Sheila Schlee * Eric J. Davis Gregory Boreham and Retha Ott and Peter Woodruff ∆ * Warren R. Schulten * Alice Gale Henry Nancy Fairchild ∆ Richard and Donice Pancost ∆ Charles and Ellen Steinmetz ∆ * Paul Geib Phil and Charlene Bosl ∆ Diane Pedroni ∆ * Stiassni Family Foundation * Patti Gough Paul and Tammie Brailsford * Nancy and Byron Pinckert ∆ Marian F. Tang * Moria J. Graham Mayer and Sandy Brenner ∆ * Kenneth and Marilyn Prindle ∆ Thomas Law Group P.C. * Bill Higuera Anthony Brown ∆ Arlette Reed ∆ * Hope L. Turney * Waren J. Iliff Phillip and Carol Burtis ∆ * Elizabeth Richardson and Wells Fargo * Wilbur and Virginia Kievit William and Katherine Chambers ∆ * Carrie Gartner ∆ * Winnick Family Foundation June L. Kurtz Daniel Chan ∆ * Heidi and Rod Roddenberry ∆ * Rich Lalor In memory of John Chuang ∆ * Nancy Rodriguez and Marc Castillo Judy L. Mansfield Birenbaum Ollie Cigliano and Sharon Kemmer * Joanne Runge ∆ In Kind Donors Darren Meeham Kenneth and Jeanne Conklin ∆ William and Diane Salter ∆ * The following contributors donated Lynne M. Preslo Dan L. Corey and Rhonda J. Kurtz ∆ Leopold and Carmen Sanchez ∆ goods or services valued at $1,000 Bob Richards Marjorie Countryman ∆ Tina and Brian Sarty ∆ or more to the Aquarium in 2015: Cindy Robertson Hilario and Elizabeth Cruz ∆ * John T. Shadden, Morgan Age of Aquariums Michael P. Sheridan Councilmember Gary and Stanley Smith Barney ∆ * Alondra Hot Wings Terry and Pat Tibor Dawna DeLong ∆ * Kash and Theresa Sheikh ∆ Arcustech.com Ted Trujillo Michele and Paula Del Vicario ∆ * Michael and Mary Beth Shwayder ∆ * The Attic Irva Watters Donald F. Desfor and Jeffrey and Deborah Simpson ∆ * The Auld Dubliner Irish Pub Hilda Wax Carol Duong ∆ * Dr. Preston and Nancy Smith ∆ Alvin and Sue Bartholomew Barbara Janet Wilford Disney Employee Matching Mark J. Snookal Beach Animal Rehabilitation Center Joan Williams Gifts Program * Spin Public Relations * Bluewater Grill Connie K. Wong Steve Dodge ∆ Del and Carole Stagg * The Boeing Company John and Vickie Dupuy ∆ * Paul Stelling ∆ Bradford Renaissance Portraits Don and Gay Durward ∆ Eiko and Floyd Stewart ∆ * In Honor of Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. To commemorate a special occasion, Christopher and Tiffany Eich ∆ The Stocking Family ∆ Buono's Authentic Pizzeria milestone, or birthday, donations Kenneth and Kathi Ellis ∆ * Takehiko Suzuki and Deborah May ∆ Caesars Entertainment can be made to the Aquarium Viktoria Engel Tyer and Lauren and Steve Tabor ∆ Caught in the Moment Photography of the Pacific. The following Emily Engel ∆ * David Thompson ∆ * Deb's Kitchen Featuring individuals were honored in 2015: Raymond and Jennifer Fas ∆ * Tuna Club Foundation ∆ * Melissa's Produce Charles Z. and Meri L. Fedak * John and Judi Uphold ∆ Aquarium penguins Elvis Delius Restaurant George and Carrie Fields ∆ William Waterhouse and and Noodles DIRECTV Cecile Fisher and Isaias Castellanos ∆ Barbara Long ∆ * The Aquarium Team EJ Malloy's Pub and Grill Kenneth and Debra Forrest ∆ * Robert and Maureen Watts ∆ Emma Blanchard's 14th birthday Europa Village Winery Adele W. Fortune and Steve Nash ∆ * Webcor Builders * Jeanne M. Brodeur The Federal Bar Virginia S. Frankenfield * Wells Fargo Insurance Lou Canut Gladstone's Long Beach Russ and Karen Frerer ∆ Services USA, Inc. * James and Andrew Cheney Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. Debbie and Bob Fults ∆ Tamara and Chandler White ∆ Norman F. Delaterre Russ and Avalon Hill Michael J. Gaczkowski and Cristine Wolf ∆ Alex Diaz Lapham and Olivia Gertz Hyatt Regency Indian Vicki L. Kane ∆ * Denise Wynn ∆ * Anders Erdenberger Wells Resort & Spa Jonathan Gordon ∆ * Leah C. Young ∆ * Adele W. Fortune's 70th birthday JW Marriott Austin Margaret Gordon ∆ Jodi Fritz Karl Strauss Brewery Jim and Gail Gray ∆ * Taryn Heimer's 40th birthday $1,000+ Kincaid's Bay House Robert and Marilyn Grove ∆ Frank Hotchkiss' 90th Birthday Russell Andrew and Kathy Parsons King's Fish House Margaret Hainey * Matthew W. Humphrey Anonymous (2) L'Opera Perry W. Hampton ∆ * Kaileigh, Natalie and Jaxon Robert and Debra Autrey ∆ Michael Melford Dr. Carl, Elise and Shelby Hartman ∆ Carly Krantz Ryan B. Autrey * Douglas Otto and Freda Madeline and Donald Heimark ∆ Abel Mayorga Larry and Vicki Black Hinsche Otto Otto and Shirley Henke ∆ Virginia McCallum Judith L. Blevens Paradise Taveuni - Fiji Joseph Herron and Patricia Baird ∆ Jesse J. McPherson J. Sergio Bohon * Parkers' Lighthouse Valerie and Bob Hoffman ∆ Mr. and Mrs. R.J. Michaels Michael Broida and Elaine Premier Mark and Mary Hoover ∆ Anniversary Lasnik-Broida Primal Alchemy Catering Janet Horenstein ∆ Peggy Morrison Robert A. Brush Rowley Portraiture Albert C. Hu and Michele Kathie Nirschl California Fisheries and Rubio's E. Brantner ∆ Joseph and Francesca Obegi Seafood Institute * William and Diane Salter Denise Hurst ∆ * Dennis Papini Catalina Water Company * simply sweet cakery Jack and Barbara Irvin * Adam Rider's first Christmas Paul M. Cate * SIP Lounge at the Renaissance Hotel John and Julia Itamura ∆ * Jerry R. Schubel Cigna Health and Life The Sky Room Barbara Jensen ∆ Corinne J. Sewell Insurance Company SlapFish Sarah Kaleel ∆ Cruz Sistos Gail A. Clark * Jeanne B. Sleeper James Kang and Julie Michael B. Sondermann Kymberly L. Cloughesy * Steamed Vegetarian Cuisine Stevens-Kang ∆ Alex Vanderhoof's 6th birthday Paul Cooley and Rebekah Gladson * Robert Stowe, Artist Lewis A. Kingsley Foundation * Maura Whitfield Carla N. Crespo * SWEET! Hollywood Jeanne and Ron Kipp ∆ * Michael Williams Christopher N. Crespo * Taco Beach Cantina David and Deborah Lake ∆ * Kent Wong's 5th birthday Fuscoe Engineering, Inc. * Temecula Olive Oil Company Alex and Danielle Lambert ∆ Linda and Paul Gaffney * TIM Services LBS Financial Credit Union ∆ Bill and Margie Gensemer * Glenn N. Togawa Jason and Janice Leibl ∆ GeoDesign, Inc. Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach Michael and Vanessa Lewis ∆ * Steve Goodling * Viking River Cruises, Inc. Long Beach Community Foundation Gerard Hanley and Donna Chinn * Marine Life Artist & Evan Braude and Bonnie John and Cynthia Hendricks Conservationist Wyland Lowenthal * David and Catherine Hostetler * Laura Lubin ∆ * KPFF Consulting Engineers * Toby Malina and Jim Heid ∆ Robert and Nancy Latimer ∆

Please note that pledges are recognized in the year in which they are received. * These donors have increased their giving in 2015. ∆ Pacific Circle member

11 Arts Programs The Aquarium offers visual and performing arts programming throughout the year to attract new audiences, help visitors make an emotional connection with environmental issues, and approach scientific topics in novel ways.

Aquarium Commissioned Symphony of Jellies The Aquarium commissioned a project that brings art and science together to translate the movement of sea jellies, or jellyfish, into a symphony. The Symphony of Jellies was developed based on an algorithm that tracks the ©Jonas B en d iksen r bis Co A llofs, Th eo Photography exhibitions from the Annenberg Space for Photography movements of sea jellies and translates them address sea level rise and water scarcity. into sounds. Marty Quinn, founder of the Design Rythmics Sonification Research Lab, developed Aquarium Hosted Two Exhibitions software and hardware to capture sea jellies from Annenberg Space for Photography movements with digital video footage and From June 1 to September 15 the Aquarium hosted translate them into sounds through a process he Sink or Swim: Designing for a Sea Change, an exhibition calls MoveMusic sonification. Composer Eddie organized by the Annenberg Space for Photography in Los Freeman of Icarus Music used those sounds to Angeles. The exhibition, guest curated for the Photography create musical motifs and orchestration. Jerry Space by Frances Anderton, architecture writer and host Schubel and Aquarium Trustee Dennis Poulsen of KCRW’s DnA: Design and Architecture program, exam- served as advisors and partners on the project. ined housing and infrastructure responses to rising seas, New exhibit components that demonstrate coastal flooding, and increasingly powerful storm surges the MoveMusic sonification software were tied to global climate change. The exhibition included installed at two of the Aquarium’s Jellies exhibits. images from renowned photographers around the world Webcams installed in the moon jellies exhibit examining the ways people are responding to sea level in the Southern California/Baja Gallery and in rise, from building complex systems of sea walls and dikes the lagoon jellies exhibit in the Tropical Gallery in the Netherlands to constructing floating schoolhouses broadcast images onto a screen next to the in Nigeria. The primary focus was the architectural and exhibit and play the translated sounds of the urban planning innovations being used to adapt to higher jelly movements in real time. seas and the human stories behind these solutions. The Aquarium’s presentation of Sink or Swim was comple- mented by sea level rise and extreme weather programming, including daily showings of the Aquarium’s Rising Sea and Extreme Weather shows for NOAA’s Science on a Sketch Comedy Meets Sphere® and a lecture miniseries by sea level rise experts Climate Change in Dan Cayan, John Gillis, and Reinhart Flick. The Lollygaggers The Aquarium also hosted an exhibition of photographs The Aquarium hosted exploring water scarcity and humans’ relationship with wa- a performance of The ter in regions around the world from Annenberg. Opened Lollygaggers, a comedy theater show about on October 7, Water: Our Thirsty World featured images climate change. Written captured by photographers for National Geographic by Rani O’Brien, theater director, and magazine. The photos examined water as a precious Josh Willis, Ph.D., an natural resource and documented how water scarcity oceanographer at affects threatened and endangered species, agriculture, NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory specializing and people, particularly those living in developing nations. in sea level rise and The exhibition also focused on the spiritual relationship ocean warming, The with water in cultures around the world. The exhibition, Lollygaggers featured music, sketch comedy, organized by the Annenberg Foundation in Los Angeles in and puppets. partnership with National Geographic, was on view at the Aquarium through February 15, 2016.

12 Conservation Through projects that sustain endangered species, citizen science programs, and a sustainable seafood program, among other efforts, the Aquarium supports ocean and environmental conservation at many levels.

First Loggerhead Turtles Fitted with New Systems Built Satellite Tags Provided New Data for Program to Breed The Aquarium rehabilitated and released two log- Endangered Abalone gerhead sea turtles in 2015. The turtle released off the The Aquarium has been coast of San Diego in April was the first loggerhead to an active partner in the white be fitted and tracked with a satellite tag, allowing NOAA abalone breeding program, part researchers to learn more about these turtles’ habitat and of NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Juvenile behavior. The second had an injured front flipper that was Service (NMFS) abalone restoration abalone are amputated by the Aquarium’s veterinary staff before its efforts. The aim of the program is to re-establish labeled with identification release in November. The location data provided by the healthy populations of white abalone along California’s numbers. satellite transmitters will help answer questions about coast. Focused on successful propagation of white loggerhead habitat. Previously, this has been a mystery abalone, the Aquarium continued to condition the because the juvenile turtles are small and difficult to spot animals in 2015 so they are ready for future annual in the wild, scientists say. This new information will also spawning attempts. help NOAA Fisheries to better protect these turtles. In 2014 NMFS awarded the Aquarium a $48,000 grant over two years to further propagation efforts Citizen Science Programs Grew in 2015 and education programs on abalone ecology for Originally launched in 2014 in partnership with the high school students. In 2015, the second year, the Los Cerritos Wetlands Authority, Tidal Influence, and Aquarium’s abalone team used the funds to construct NOAA Fisheries conservation and wildlife manage- a larger holding space where newly hatched white ment groups, the Aquarium’s San Gabriel River Sea abalone larvae settle to the bottom and begin to Turtle Monitoring Program grew in 2015 to include 141 grow after metamorphosing into their adult form. The volunteers who donated 1,906 hours to the program. additional settlement space was also utilized by other Newer volunteers were trained for lead positions, so white abalone recovery program partners. The NOAA the current leads can evolve the project and work with funding was also used to improve an algae culture NOAA Fisheries scientists on quality assurance and data system to experiment with the abalone’s food prefer- analysis efforts. The data collected will be recorded and ences and the nutritional content of different algae. used to understand how many individual sea turtles might be living in the San Gabriel River and to help with Aquarium Earned Cool Planet additional tracking and monitoring efforts. Award for Energy Conservation Also in 2015 the Aquarium joined the Focal Trees In October the Aquarium was awarded a 2015 Cool program in partnership with Earthwatch and the City of Planet Award in the education sector from The Climate Long Beach to gather data on types of trees, their cooling Registry and Southern California Edison for its efforts potential, their ability to absorb certain contaminants, and in energy and carbon management. water resource needs. The Aquarium trained ten citizen scientists and provided materials. The Southern California Whale Research Project established in 2010 to collect data on blue whale Aquarium movements brought in two new students for a total of President Receives thirteen volunteers. Conservation Award The Aquarium also joined HABWatch to help moni- tor harmful algal blooms (HABs). This effort increases Jerry Schubel was named Conservator of the Year by the the number of eyes on the ocean for early detection Bolsa Chica Conservancy in 2015. and sets into place a method for rapid response. The He was selected in recognition of Aquarium was the top contributor for information on his visionary leadership in ocean conservation through exploration, the program’s website. research, and education. Wyland, the 2014 honoree, presented the award to Schubel.

13 Animals The Aquarium's animals serve as ambassadors for their counterparts in the wild, helping visitors to learn about the conservation issues they face.

Third-Generation Penguin Chick Hatched in June The Aquarium announced the birth of a female Magellanic Penguin chick named Lily in June 2015. She hatched on June 5 and represents the third generation of Aquarium-born penguins. Penguins Roxy and Floyd are Lily’s parents, and Heidi, Anderson, and Skipper are her siblings. Lily made her public debut and joined the other penguins in the June Keyes Penguin Habitat on August 18.

Penguin Physical Exams Each of the Aquarium's eighteen penguins received an annual physical examination by Dr. Lance Adams, staff veterinarian. otos: Robin Riggs Robin A ll P h otos:

14 Shark Pups Born Via Artificial Insemination Added to Shark Lagoon On January 27 the Aquarium’s shark team moved two female zebra shark pups born via artificial insemination from the behind-the-scenes shark nursery to their new home in Shark Lagoon. The Aquarium of the Pacific was the first to be able to successfully reproduce zebra sharks through artificial insemination. Fern, a twenty-year-old zebra shark who has lived at the Aquarium since 1997, is the mother of the two shark pups. In spring one of the zebra shark pups was delivered to another Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) One of two zebra institution as part of the Aquarium’s involvement shark pups born via artificial insemi- in AZA’s Species Survival Plan for zebra sharks. nation being added to Successful births from artificial insemination can the shallow pool in Shark further research in helping dwindling shark popula- Lagoon. Pictured: Lauren Harper, Aquarium of the Pacific aquarist. tions in the wild. This species is listed as vulnerable to extinction under the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, mainly because of human activities, including overfishing.

Largetooth Sawfish Moved to Join Breeding Program The Aquarium’s female largetooth sawfish (Pristis pristis) moved to another aquarium in December to become part of a breeding program. She was a resident since 2005 of Shark Lagoon, where she lived with the Aquarium’s larger sharks, including sand tiger, zebra, and blacktip reef sharks. The move is considered a breeding loan, allowing the Aquarium to retain access to any resulting offspring. In preparation for the move, the Aquarium’s shark keepers worked with the sawfish to train her to swim into a stretcher. Unlike sharks that are trained in this behavior, including Fern the zebra shark, sawfish can- not be rewarded with food during the training because sawfishes thrash at their prey with their saws during feeding. Instead, the keepers offered a tactile reward when the sawfish performed behaviors successfully, giving her a quick scratch or massage for swimming into the stretcher. Sawfishes are listed as critically endangered by U.S. and international organizations, and it is no longer possible for zoos or aquariums to acquire any from the wild. These animals are part of a Species Survival Plan (SSP) managed by AZA. The SSP provides guide- lines to ensure genetic diversity within the population living at zoos and aquariums.

The Aquarium's largetooth sawfish.

15 Volunteers

Hugh Ryono, a charter volunteer in the husbandry department, creates some of the most popular content for the Aquarium through his blog. His photos and videos give an insider's perspective and frequently go viral online.

Longtime Volunteer Created Viral Content Aquarium volunteer Hugh Ryono has worked in the animal husbandry department since before the Aquarium officially opened its doors in 1998. He has played a primary role in caring for penguins, sea otters, seals, and sea lions. He has even stayed overnight with newly arrived sea otter pups needing twenty-four- hour care, rightly earning him the unofficial title of “Otter Pop.” Ryono also has a talent for photography and videography. He has captured behind-the-scenes underwater footage, timelaps- es, and high-speed video giving viewers a never-before-seen look at life at the Aquarium and the animals that call it home. His photos and videos of the Aquarium’s animals are featured in his biweekly blog on the Aquarium’s website. Ryono started his Aquarium blog in 2007. Some of his most popular posts include his story about giving the penguins an iPad to play with and his stint as Ollie the sea otter’s official biographer, from her first days Volunteer Hugh Ryono regularly shares photos and videos at the Aquarium as a pup to her daily life with the other otters in of his experiences with the Aquarium's animals on his blog. the public exhibit. In 2015 several of his videos went viral on social media platforms and helped to promote the institution’s mission and vision. His video of flamboyant cuttlefish was viewed over 655,000 times on YouTube and Facebook combined and was shared by over 16,000 people on Facebook, ultimately reaching 1.9 million Facebook users. Through his blog, photos, and videos, Ryono gives the public insight into animal care at the Aquarium, our animals’ personali- ties, and the inner workings of the Aquarium's behavior training and enrichment programs. These help people create a special connection with the Aquarium and promote a love of animals, providing an invaluable service to the Aquarium.

2015 Volunteer Statistics 734 education volunteers 413 husbandry volunteers 193 volunteer divers 180 VolunTEENs 1,601 total volunteers and interns 163,651 total hours contributed

Ryono works with Aquarist Nicole Leier and Fern the zebra shark in a training session.

16 Education

The Aquarium's education programs serve students of all ages, from toddlers and schoolchildren to high school and college students, as well as adults.

Educators Helped Career Connections Visitors Explore the Ocean Program Linked Visitors learned about our planet during Students and Scientists Exploration Shows led by educators on weekends in Career Connections was the Aquarium’s Ocean Science Center in 2015. Visitors supported in 2015 by funds observed Earth using NOAA's Science on a Sphere. from The Robert and Lisa Data collected daily by NOAA and NASA satellites Margolis Family Foundation. are transformed into visualizations for the 6-foot- This program provides oppor- diameter globe. During these Exploration Shows, an tunities for scientists to connect Aquarium educator manipulated the sphere to show with middle school and high audiences the latest visualizations and answer ques- school students anywhere in tions about Earth and our ocean. During the summer the nation through videocon- months, audiences were able to connect via live video ferencing technology. During a live video chat session, The Career Connections to explorers on expeditions at sea to ask questions students are able to ask the scientist questions about videoconfer- and learn more about their missions. his or her experiences, education, and areas of exper- encing program allows students tise. Connecting scientists with students can help give to connect Aquarium Earned real-life examples of science in action, introduce career with scientists. Fourth CILC Pinnacle Award opportunities, and help students learn how science is The Aquarium’s education department received related to their everyday lives. the 2014-2015 Pinnacle Award from the Center for Interactive Learning and Collaboration (CILC) for its Education Staff Developed educational videoconference programs. The Pinnacle New Shows for Kids and Families Award is given to institutions that receive “outstand- In 2015 the Aquarium’s education staff developed ing” scores on program evaluations from teachers. new shows for the outdoor Marine Life Theater for Teacher evaluations score educational content and kids and families. Ranging from musical comedy vari- audience engagement. Since the program started ety shows to presentations of live animals, these pro- in 2011, more than 10,200 students throughout the grams provide entertainment that engages visitors country have participated in the Aquarium’s video- and delivers educational information in novel ways. conference programs. This is the Aquarium’s fourth The Singing Spectacular! show features characters consecutive CILC Pinnacle Award. performing in an “Aquarium Idol” competition, and in Fishywood Squares characters answer questions from the host and the audience determines whether their answers are true or not.

2015 Education Statistics 165,583 students, teachers, and community members served 30,100 students and chaperones visited through the scholarship program 61,455 hours of service donated by education volunteers 8,832 miles driven and 29,328 visitors served by Aquarium on Wheels

Kids participate in hands-on learning with parents in Aquarium classes.

17 Fundraising Highlights The Aquarium relies on individuals, corporations, foundations, and government partners to support its mission and vision with contributions to the operating budget and a diverse range of projects.

Pacific Circle Leadership Gift Society stuffed animal check-ups at the Family Member Pajama The Pacific Circle program raised nearly $730,000 in Party and our first-ever Member Prom. The $4.3 million 2015 to support the Aquarium's mission-driven educa- in membership support helped the Aquarium continue tion, conservation, and animal care programs. This figure to protect and preserve the Pacific Ocean, its inhabit- represents a 17 percent increase over the program's 2014 ants, and ecosystems. revenue and nearly $85,000 in surplus over the program's intended 2015 revenue goal. Members of the Pacific Circle, Annual Programs the Aquarium's leadership gift society, receive exclusive In 2015 thousands of individuals gave a total of Aquarium access in gratitude for their support. See pages $136,817 through the Aquarium’s Adopt an Animal 10 and 11 for a full list of Pacific Circle donors. program, year-end campaign, matching gift program, and by dropping money into donation kiosks at the Blue Whale Gala Aquarium. While otters and penguins continue to be The Aquarium hosted its annual Blue Whale Gala favorites among animal adopters, the limited-edition sea and entertained over 380 guests on June 13, 2015. jelly adoption was also popular and allowed one adopter Attendees of the black-tie affair participated in an to visit behind the scenes of the sea jelly exhibits with elegant cocktail and hors d’oeuvre reception on the an aquarist. Additional highlights included the first-ever front plaza, gourmet dinner in the Great Hall of the $1,000 donation raised by a marathon runner and a Pacific, and after-dinner drinks and dancing under the five-year-old who collected $70 for his favorite sharks by stars. This elegant fundraiser raised significant support breaking into his piggy bank and asking for donations. for the Aquarium thanks to the Aquarium Board of Directors and the Gala committee, chaired by Trustee Grants Michelle Molina. The event celebrated the Aquarium’s In 2015 more than $1 million in grant funding was mission and vision, featured a special presentation of raised for the Ocean Science Education Program, the the Ocean Conservation Awards to Vice Admiral Paul Aquarium Scholarship Fund, and other conservation pro- G. Gaffney II, U.S. Navy (Ret.), and Margaret S. Leinen, grams and initiatives. These initiatives, rooted in science Ph.D., and raised more than $378,000 in support of and the environment, are core to the Aquarium’s mission the Aquarium’s education, conservation, and animal and provide inspiration and engagement to visitors of all care programs. ages. More than fifty corporate and foundation partners provided grant funding to the Aquarium, including Sea Fare twelve new supporters. Key supporters include the The twelfth annual Sea Fare fundraiser hosted 650 Tesoro Foundation, The Roddenberry Foundation, BCM attendees and raised over $146,000 on October 17, 2015. Foundation, Edison International, The Robert and Lisa This annual “foodie” fundraiser featured tastes from Margolis Family Foundation, and The Miller Foundation. twenty-eight local restaurants and food and beverage For a complete list of our corporate and foundation providers, the Go Fish opportunity game, and silent donors, please see pages 10 and 11. and live auctions. The VIP on the Veranda sponsorship opportunity, offering reserved seats, early access to Sponsorship the event, hors d’oeuvres, and a premium bar on the In 2015 the Aquarium raised more than $80,000 outdoor Veranda, sold out for a second consecutive through corporate sponsorships. Corporate sponsors year. Proceeds from Sea Fare benefit the Aquarium’s play a key role in supporting the Aquarium’s mis- education, conservation, and animal care programs. sion and goals and receive unique opportunities for recognition, engagement, and benefits for employees Membership and executives. A key corporate sponsor, ScholarShare Last year the Aquarium was supported by 38,683 California’s 529 College Savings Plan partnered with the member households. Members visited a record-break- Aquarium to inspire a lifetime of learning through their ing 286,799 times and shared these experiences by tag- sponsorship of the Aquarium’s Toddler and Preschool ging their online photos with the #AquariumMember Programs, Pacific Islander and Scarium of the Pacific hashtag. They also enjoyed special events, including Festivals, and Library Pass program.

18 Aquarium Administration & Financial Results

Trustees of the Pacific (as of 12/31/15) Financial Overview REVENUE A special thanks to the following individuals who For the year ended 2015 total attendance was 1.6 million, 1% serve as Trustees of the Pacific. Trustees are donors a 5 percent increase compared to 2014. Total earned rev- who also volunteer their time and expertise in support of the Aquarium’s mission and vision. enues were 7 percent greater than 2014 results. Earned 12% revenues, which include admission, education programs, Lance and Fay Adams Glen A. March and gift store and food sales, equated to 72 percent of the 18% Travis J. Barr Jan Mazyck total 2015 revenue. Total revenue was down slightly com- Martha and Faustino Jill McCullough pared to 2014. This reflected the timing of when contribu- Bernadett Josephine M. Molina tions were received. Programs continued to be the focus Mark S. Bertrand and Foundation of activites for the Aquarium, with 82 percent of total 72% Robert K. Stanton Michelle and Barbara Bixby John Molina expenditures directed toward exhibits, service, and com- Blackwell Charles J. Moore munication. Net assets at the end of the year increased, Jim and Liz Breslauer William and with a favorable change of 2 percent, or $700,000. Esther S. M. Chui Chao Kathleen Mudd Jose and Brigitte Margie and Frank Collazo Newell Revenues and Expenses (In 000s) Earned Revenue Steve and Fran Conley Alex and Margie 2015 2014 Dr. Dominic and Norman Membership Margaret DeCristofaro Beverly O'Neill Earned revenue $26,336 $24,516 Councilmember Gary John F. Penny and Membership 4,288 4,042 Contributions and Dawna DeLong Christopher Kurimoto Steve and Pilar Dobbs Andy Perez Government 300 1,919 Janet and Michael Theresa K. Phillips Government Dockstader Dennis C. and Suzanne Contributions 5,461 6,527 John and Vickie Dupuy M. Poulsen Edwin and Veronica Quintero Total Revenue 36,385 37,003 Maryann Feo Janet and Fred John Fielder and Riedman EXPENSES Donita Van Horik Heidi and Rod Programs and marketing 29,193 27,295 Walt and Linda Florie Roddenberry Geof Garth Mary C. Rooney Development and membership 2,492 2,497 7% Daniel and Felicia Ronald Rulison and Administration 4,000 3,828 Gilboa Robert McNeel 11% Dr. Allen and Charlotte William and Ginsburg Diane Salter Total Expenses 35,685 33,619 Robert Gordon Kurt Schulzman and John and Elizabeth Richard Neri Hancock John T. Shadden, Change in net assets 700 3,383 Renee Handler-Klein Morgan Stanley 82% and James Klein Smith Barney Net assets at beginning of year 32,182 28,799 Jeffrey and Julia Jeanne B. Sleeper Net assets at end of the year 32,882 32,182 Headon Jean Bixby Smith Nancy Higginson James and Cindy Suh Matthew and Katy Kyle L. Sullivan Humphreys Marvin and Balance Sheet (in 000s) Programs & Marketing Michael and Mariclare Suomi 2015 2014 Diane Jensen Bryan T. Thacker Development & Membership Trini and Maria Jimenez Kenneth Walker Cash and cash equivalents $10,156 $11,093 James Kang and Julie John and Patricia Wang Administration Stevens-Kang William Waterhouse Accounts receivable 816 832 Richard Katz and Barbara Long Contributions receivable 2,399 2,939 Suzanne Kelley Charles and Los Angeles County Maureen Wilmot Prepaid expenses 379 369 Supervisor Don Knabe Denise Wynn John and Joan Knight Gift store inventory 596 515 Corinne and Rocky Property and equipment net 24,322 23,925 Laverty Andrew Maldonado Total Assets 38,668 39,674 and Lewis Shiro

Accounts payable 1,696 2,908 Accrued liabilities 1,261 1,940 Marine Conservation Research Institute Board of Directors (as of 12/31/15) *Deferred revenue 2,874 2,643 Dr. Wolfgang Berger Dr. Laura Kingsford Dr. Laurel Harrison Caron Laird Total Liabilities 5,785 7,492 Breece Dr. Richard Pieper Dirk Burcham Dr. Jerry Schubel Unrestricted 17,263 18,319 Dr. John Dorsey Nancy Steele, D. Env. Dr. James Fawcett Thomas Turney, Temporarily restricted 15,121 13,465 Dr. Robert Grove chairman Dr. Roy Houston Dr. Dallas Weaver Permanently restricted 498 398 Dr. Krista Kamer Corinne Laverty, Dr. Lee Kats vice chair Total Net Assets 32,883 32,182

Total Liabilities and Net Assets 38,668 39,674

*The Aquarium of Pacific restated 2014 deferred revenue to include membership sales paid but not earned in the period.

For a list of the Aquarium’s donors, please see pages 10 and 11 of this annual report.

19 Aquarium of the Paciﬁ c 2015 Annual Report

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