2019 | Annual Report “You engage with us often and see the extraordinary happenings taking place here every day.” Dear Friend,

As a vital member of the Mystic Aquarium community, you engage with us often and see the extraordinary happenings taking place here every day.

New animals join our current ambassadors not only to inspire you, but also to inspire our team of veterinarians, scientists and educators as they take on challenges to learn about different species, explore groundbreaking opportunities and share knowledge with others. Over the past year, we have welcomed several new animal ambassadors that do just that and more.

Our team is always looking for innovative ways to grant you access to corners of the world that would otherwise be unreachable. We were thrilled to present you with not one, but three exhibits this year that meet – and exceed – that aspiration. While two transport you to the Arctic and Caribbean through modern technology or hands-on interactions, the third exhibit brings a global concern in focus, forcing us all to re-examine how we treat the planet we call home.

Perhaps the most remarkable accomplishment of 2019 is the grand opening of the Milne Ocean Science and Conservation Center. This building will propel our efforts in education, husbandry, conservation forward into the future.

Thank you for your camaraderie and support. As a nonprofit organization, we depend on our community to not only follow our lead, but to also take personal steps to influence change as we work together toward a common mission.

Sincerely,

George M. Milne, Jr., Ph.D. Stephen M. Coan, Ph.D. Chairman of the Board President & CEO

Mystic Aquarium Annual Report | 1 TABLE OF CONTENTS

3 Mission Programs

4 New Animals Animal Rescue Program Success

6 Milne Ocean Science and Conservation Center Art Gallery Beluga Conference

8 New Exhibits Honoring a Friend Northern Lights Yale New Haven Health Family Lounge & First Aid Center

10 2019 Accomplishments & Partnerships

12 Coming in 2020 Board of Trustees & Trustees Emeritus

14 Presidents’ Council & Senior Leadership

16 2019 Donors

18 Donations In-Kind, In-Memory & In-Honor

20 2 | Mystic Aquarium Annual Report 2019 Financials MISSION PROGRAMS The mission of Mystic Aquarium is to inspire people to care for and protect our ocean planet through conservation, education and research.

In the fourth implementation year of the 2020 “One to create acceptance and inclusion for all individuals with Ocean, One Mission” strategic plan, Mystic Aquarium’s unique abilities. Through the certification process, 150 Mission Programs further increased conservation impact Aquarium team members completed extensive online through the integration of education, research, policy and training focused on improving our ability to assist and exhibits. Our ongoing commitment to ocean research and accommodate guests with sensory needs in a way that conservation is exemplified by leadership in local, regional fosters inclusivity. Our team also installed public signage and national fisheries management and policy through in various places on our campus so guests can identify the CT Blue Plan and a new National Estuarine Research resources to help them better understand and enjoy Reserve proposed for Long Island Sound. The Aquarium exhibits. And, we created special sensory kits that contain launched the new “Plastic Free Seas” exhibit, convened a tools such as noise-canceling headphones and fidget toys panel of ocean plastics experts and engaged at the state that guests can borrow during their visit. Also new, the and local level to help pass legislation to reduce single- Yale New Haven Health Family Lounge and First Aid Center use plastic such as bags, straws and polystyrene. Our provides a private, quiet and relaxing space for support with important research in the Arctic came to life through an additional resources to help calm and soothe those in need. international conference on beluga whale research and conservation; Wild Arctic, a new augmented reality exhibit, BRINGING ALASKA NATIVES AND LOCAL TRIBAL and new signage at our Arctic Coast exhibit highlighting YOUTH TOGETHER THROUGH EDUCATION AND beluga whale research and conservation in the face of CULTURAL EXCHANGE climate change. Mystic Aquarium hosted a science-based educational and cultural exchange workshop for a small group of Alaska The following 2019 case studies highlight and exemplify Native, Mashantucket Pequot and Narragansett tribal our mission: youth for eight days. The main goals of the National Science Foundation funded workshop were to stimulate excitement BUILDING CONSERVATION LEADERS about science, inspire high school youth to pursue education Mystic Aquarium hosted nearly 100 teens from 13 states and careers in science and empower youth to be a resource during the inaugural Peer Mentor Leadership Academy to their communities for the management and sustainability (PMLA). The program marked a new initiative of the federally of marine resources. Activity highlights included hands- funded, conservation-focused STEM Mentoring program. on science simulating research conducted on belugas in The six-week program was created to bring together peer Alaska, interactions with the Aquarium’s amazing animals, mentors from STEM Mentoring program sites across the discussions on careers, trips to the New Bedford Whaling country with the objective of increasing leadership and Museum, Mystic Seaport Museum and a research cruise on relationship-building skills among participants to enhance Long Island Sound. Moreover, opportunities were provided their effectiveness as peer mentors and environmental throughout the workshop to learn and share culture and leaders in their communities. Teen mentors utilized their traditions, which culminated in the Veteran’s Pow Wow at new skills as they mentored groups of four mentees, ages the Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Center. 6-10, throughout the 2019-2020 academic year. Students learned about each other’s cultural similarities and differences; realizing they all need to work at maintaining EXPANDING INCLUSIVITY THROUGH SENSORY cultural identity so language and traditions are not lost. INCLUSIVE CERTIFICATION On their way back home, Alaska Native students attended Mystic Aquarium has a long history of supporting a meeting for the Alaska Beluga Whale Committee — visitors, students and program participants with sensory which consists of hunters, scientists and managers whose sensitivities, including Autism. This year, we deepened that responsibility is to co-manage beluga whale populations, commitment by achieving KultureCity’s Sensory Inclusive ensure their sustainability and support research — to Certification. KultureCity is an all-volunteer, non-profit present their experience through the program. organization with a goal of rethinking accessibility in order

Mystic Aquarium Annual Report | 3 WELCOMING NEW ANIMAL AMBASSADORS As a mission-driven organization, Mystic Aquarium is keenly focused and fully engaged in conserving and protecting our ocean planet. One of the most compelling ways we share that message with our community is through the help of our many incredible animal ambassadors. This year was a banner year in that regard as we welcomed several new animals into our care.

Natasha A beluga whale transferred from Sea World San Antonio, TX.

Yura A Northern fur seal rescued by The Marine Mammal Center after stranding; deemed non-releasable due to neurological issues from exposure to domoic acid and seizure activity.

Tuk Yura’s pup born shortly after her rescue and admitted to The Marine Mammal Center; also deemed non-releasable due to his presumed exposure to domoic acid in utero.

Dash A California sea lion pup rescued in La Jolla, CA, by Sea World San Diego; deemed non-releasable due to imprinting.

Cobh Born to resident harbor seal Pearl, Cobh (pronounced ‘Cove’) is her first pup.

Nuna A spotted seal pup rescued and treated by Alaska SeaLife Center amid an Unusual Mortality Event (UME); deemed non-releasable due to the ongoing UME. RECORD-BREAKING YEAR FOR ANIMAL RESCUE PROGRAM Since January, the Animal Rescue Program (ARP) responded to over 100 strandings – up from the previous record high of 79 last year – and received nearly 200 reports of sightings, far surpassing the typical yearly average of 60. Plus, eight seals were rehabilitated and released.

Part of the record-breaking year can be attributed to an ongoing Unusual Mortality Event, (UME). The Marine Mammal Protection Act defines a UME as “a stranding event that is unexpected, involves a significant die-off of any marine mammal population and demands immediate response.” Since July 2018, an increase in the number of harbor and grey seal deaths throughout Maine, New Hampshire and Massachusetts, led the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to declare this the Northeast Pinniped UME.

THE TALE OF A WAYWARD SEAL SEA TURTLE SAVED BY CONCERNED CITIZENS An international and collaborative rescue effort came In late September, the Program responded to the call of a together when Lou-Seal, Bermuda’s favorite adult gray distressed juvenile green sea turtle at the Millstone Power seal, returned to the cold waters of the northern Atlantic Station in Waterford, CT; it was the first live sea turtle Ocean in late May. Found thousands of miles from her admitted to our ARP in many years and first green sea turtle native habitat, Lou-Seal was rescued in March by Bermuda to undergo rehabilitation here. Aquarium, Museum and Zoo (BAMZ) off a rocky island shoreline. The turtle was trapped in an intake area due to high currents and was retrieved by their staff who then called our rescue After weeks of care by BAMZ, Lou-Seal was flown from hotline. Upon arrival, our team saw that the turtle appeared Bermuda to Mystic Aquarium for continued rehabilitative relatively healthy but had a significant wound on the left care at our clinic. Six weeks later, a fully-recovered Lou-Seal rear limb. Following months of medical care, the turtle was returned to her native habitat. transported to the Georgia Sea Turtle Center in preparation for its return back to sea in Florida. Fittingly, Lou-Seal’s rehabilitation and release was generously supported by Goslings, Bermuda’s oldest Green sea turtles are listed as endangered under the continuously running business and producer of Goslings Endangered Species Act and are an IUCN Red Listed animal; award-winning Bermuda rums. making rehabilitation of each green sea turtle significant for the population. A PLACE TO GROW OUR MISSION There is no better place to witness a mission come to life than at Mystic Aquarium, and even more so now with the completion of the Milne Ocean Science and Conservation Center. With a resolute focus on expanding educational reach, streamlining fish and invertebrate husbandry practices and further cultivating meaningful relationships, the building, which held its grand opening on March 1, is already revolutionizing the Aquarium’s mission.

The Center is home to state-of-the-art classrooms, John T. and Jane A. Wiederhold Veterinary and Animal Health including the Aquarium’s Sea School preschool, and two Center, which received a complete renovation in 2016. classroom spaces featuring touch habitats with a collection of local species, SMART board and various marine artifacts. Providing a connection between art and nature, the Tom & Michelle Marra Art Gallery, located on the first floor of the The 18,000 square-foot building also features conference Center, is an evolving space that will feature work created by space and a $1.5 million aquaculture laboratory and animal local and conservation-focused artists. holding area. The Milne Center building connects to the

6 | Mystic Aquarium Annual Report COMBINING KNOWLEDGE FOR THE FUTURE OF BELUGA CONSERVATION Over the past decade, population counts estimate over 150,000 beluga whales inhabit various Arctic and subarctic habitats. While the species at large is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, select sub- populations are struggling, and others are already critically endangered.

A critical need for action prompted the Second International management decisions of belugas in both aquarium and Workshop on Beluga Whale Research and Conservation; native settings. held in March at Mystic Aquarium. “We welcomed over 100 of the greatest minds in beluga “As the home to the largest outdoor beluga whale habitat conservation and research to Mystic Aquarium,” added Dr. in the United States with a team of scientists and educators Tracy Romano, Mystic Aquarium’s Vice President of Research dedicated to beluga research and conservation efforts, we & Chief Scientist and Chair of the workshop committee. were proud to host this workshop,” said Dr. Stephen M. Coan, “Attendees with diverse backgrounds came from all over the President and CEO. world to share their knowledge and make headway in beluga research and conservation efforts globally.” Throughout the course of the workshop, forward-thinking pioneers in research, influential tribal community leaders The three-day workshop was the first event held in the new and wildlife managers connected, communicated and Milne Ocean Science and Conservation Center just weeks collaborated in an effort to better inform conservation and after its grand opening.

“Attendees with diverse backgrounds came from all over the world to share their knowledge.” NEW EXHIBITS IN MEMORY OF A LIFELONG FRIEND As a Mystic Aquarium enthusiast, Deborah (Debbie) Carocari was a lifelong supporter. In 2019, at 56 years of age, Debbie passed away following a 20-year battle with ovarian cancer. In her final wishes, she bequeathed support of scholarships like our Sarah Delano Scholarship program.

At the age of 10, Debbie became a charter member of Mystic Aquarium when it opened in 1973. At that time, Wild Arctic she lived in Overland Park, Kansas, but would spend This family-friendly experience immersed summers in Connecticut with her grandparents in guests into a virtual Arctic environment North Stonington. As Debbie grew up, she would return inhabited by walruses, humpback whales and to the Aquarium often; when she permanently moved polar bears. The combination of modern-day to the area in 2016, she became a volunteer. technology, life-like imagery and poignant Debbie wanted to do something in return for the conservation messaging inspired all to care decades of joy the Aquarium had given her. Admiring for and protect the ocean planet. those working at the Aquarium, she decided to give $10,000 to help others further their education in the marine sciences.

Plastic Free Seas Ahrough this new exhibit, guests learned about the changes we all can make at home to protect our oceans for generations to come. See eco-friendly products that help in the fight against plastic pollution and discover the impact of plastics on the environment.

Touch of the Tropics Just in time for the start of summer, this new tropical touch experience encouraged guests to get hands-on with colorful aquatic species native to Caribbean habitats.

8 | Mystic Aquarium Annual Report BRINGING THE NORTHERN LIGHTS TO MYSTIC On December 7, Mystic Aquarium officially lit up for the first night of the inaugural Northern Lights holiday lights display. By the event’s final night, Mystic Aquarium welcomed more than 10,000 guests; generating over $120,000 in ticket revenue.

Illuminated by a re-creation of the aurora borealis, the new and unique holiday experience glistened. A stunning spectacle of energy-efficient light displays was set to music along beautifully-decorated pathways throughout the outdoor Aquarium exhibits. Hand-crafted animal-shaped lanterns helped shine a whole new light on a few incredible Arctic species.

Northern Lights provided something for everyone: Families enjoyed the light displays and life-like reindeer in the winter village; adults and couples were enamored by the numerous Instagram-worthy photo opportunities and the cozy fire towers provided the perfect retreat to sip seasonal drink specials under the stars.

STRATEGIC PLAN GOAL 1 | MASTERY Position Mystic Aquarium as a global leader, practitioner and provider of the “One Ocean, One Mission” concept.

GOAL 2 | OPPORTUNITY Increase attendance and memberships through year-round exhibits, programs and presentations. NEWLY RENOVATED GOAL 3 | CONNECTIVITY FAMILY LOUNGE & Connect with and engage our neighbors, FIRST AID CENTER industry associates and global partner PROVIDES SPACE communities. FOR ALL GOAL 4 | COMMUNITY The Yale New Haven Health Family Lounge and First Aid Center Foster an organization and community that is open in Mystic Aquarium’s Main Gallery to serve the many embraces and exemplifies diversity. needs of our guests. The newly appointed room provides a private space for nursing moms and can also be a quiet GOAL 5 | SECURITY area for children on the autism spectrum or with sensory Develop a robust and sustainable financial processing challenges. We are proud of our partnership with platform. Yale New Haven Health, which provides care for patients statewide (and beyond!). 2019 ACCOMPLISHMENTS & PARTNERSHIPS

EDUCATION AND CONSERVATION Hands-on, inquiry-based programs are designed to address the need for high-quality, conservation-focused STEM programming for both formal and informal audiences. This need is particularly great in high-needs communities and for students with sensory processing and learning differences. Mystic Aquarium’s formal and informal experiential learning programs are focused on educating and motivating people of all ages to care for and protect our ocean planet. The Aquarium operates a national youth conservation STEM Mentoring initiative in more than 50 high-need communities across the nation. It’s the largest informal science education provider in Connecticut; reaching 100,000 students annually. Programs include Sea School Preschool, summer camp, overnights and internship experiences as well as extensive formal programming for grades pre-K through 12 as well as adult programming. Through experiences with live animals, citizen science initiatives, field research studies and restoration and protection efforts, our program participants are poised to become scientifically literate environmental stewards of our ocean planet.

EDUCATION AND CONSERVATION ACCOMPLISHMENTS Acquired new resources for visitors and program Engaged 229 volunteers in field-based, citizen science participants who are blind or visually impaired to increase activities; sampled 40 amphibian species for Bd and Bsal Aquarium accessibility. These included specialized bags and disseminated amphibian conservation messaging that serve as a sensory touch guide of the Aquariums’ to 14,331 community members through public outreach exhibits and audio recordings of Aquarium signage as well events as part of The Amphibian Conservation through as tailored programming. Community Stewardship project.

Engaged 46,509 individuals, representing 56,761 Hosted 479 campers during the first year of summer hours, in public conservation programs including camps in the Milne Ocean Science and Conservation coastal explorations and cleanups, specialized animal Center. This represented an 11% increase in participants ambassador programs, species conservation efforts and a 12% increase in revenue over 2018. and Plastic Free July activities. This represented a 19% increase in engagement over 2018. Engaged 7,800 underserved students in grant-funded programming. Evaluation results revealed that 90% of students surveyed agreed that they would like to do more to help protect local animals and watersheds as a result of participation in these programs.

Surveyed teachers on Mystic Aquarium’s educational programs: 90% expressed that these programs helped them meet Next Generation Science Standards; 94% expressed that the educational experiences effectively engaged their students in STEM.

10 | Mystic Aquarium Annual Report CONSERVATION-FOCUSED RESEARCH Mystic Aquarium’s conservation-focused research program is committed to the conservation of marine ecosystems, habitats and species. Studies are conducted both at the Aquarium’s “living laboratory” as well as in the field from places above the Arctic Circle to Isla del Coco National Park off the coast of Costa Rica. The ability to work with the animals at the Aquarium allows us to gain scientific knowledge and biological samples that help understanding of wild populations, such as the endangered African penguin and Cook Inlet beluga. Our development and testing of new, non-invasive methods to gather data on the health of marine mammals worldwide; particularly with increasing environmental and anthropogenic stressors, is critical to inform policy makers.

Mystic Aquarium’s Coral Reef Aquarium Fisheries Campaign strives to create a framework to sustain the health of coral reefs by working with stakeholders in the aquarium fish trade to support sustainable practices in biodiversity, conservation, healthy coral reefs, livelihoods and food security for those that depend on them. Our team works toward these goals in a variety of ways including aquaculture of targeted species for aquarium trade, development of a bioassay, which allows the industry to test and reject cyanide-exposed fishes in a non-lethal way, and educating the next generation of aquaculture scientists.

In the field of marine ecology, our team assists resource managers and policy makers by identifying areas of high biodiversity worthy of protection. Data is also provided on the efficacy of marine protected areas as well as mapping species and ecosystems locally in Long Island Sound and beyond to aid in the sustainable use of these important waterways.

RESEARCH DEPARTMENT ACCOMPLISHMENT AND CONSERVATION ACCOMPLISHMENTS Published seven research manuscripts, delivered 30 from underrepresented groups or from colleges where scientific presentations, mentored 18 students and research experiences are rare, which was funded by the received five awards. National Science Foundation and in collaboration with the University of Connecticut. Organized and executed the Second International Workshop on Beluga Whale Research and Conservation Developed a molecular assay, which was funded by which was hosted at the new Milne Center for Ocean the Paul M. Angell Family Foundation, as a first step in Science and Conservation at Mystic Aquarium. identifying illegally caught coral reef fishes using cyanide poison. Applied for a beluga research permit to import five belugas from Marineland Canada to Mystic Aquarium for Contributed to the development of the Long Island Sound research that will inform conservation and recovery of Blue Plan; an effort to implement marine spatial planning the endangered Cook Inlet beluga population and foster to address conflicting human uses of Long Island Sound sustainability of belugas worldwide. while conserving natural resources.

Provided research experiences as part of the Mystic Completed a research study on nearly five decades of Aquarium Research Experiences for Undergraduates changes in the fish community structure at Stellwagen (REU) for eight college students, including five students Bank National Marine Sanctuary in the Gulf of Maine.

Mystic Aquarium Annual Report | 11 COMING IN 2020 SHARKS At the heart of our Main Gallery, a new touch experience will provide hands-on exposure to non-threatening sharks, thus encouraging a safe interaction with the species that will encourage guests to learn about their incredible contributions to the ocean’s health. With an anticipated opening in May 2020, this project will be made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

With 25% of all shark and ray species threatened with extinction, the new SHARKS touch habitat will offer fascinating facts about featured species and others to help spread knowledge and respect for these mysterious and elusive animals all while inspiring action that promotes the conservation of sharks.

OCEAN WIND ENERGY In the face of climate change, we must find sustainable ways to meet our energy needs while also preserving our planet. Coming next fall, a new Renewable Ocean Energy exhibit will be developed in partnership with the National Renewable Energy Laboratory and Ocean Power Technologies as a space to educate the public about the ocean’s potential to generate clean, renewable energy.

A largely untapped resource for generating renewable energy, marine energy technologies use the motion of the ocean to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy. This exhibit aims to provide a glimpse at the ocean’s power through scale models of an offshore wind turbine, wave buoy and surge flap.

CAMPUS RENOVATIONS In an effort to expand accessibility and ultimately modernize the auxiliary aspects of our business, the onsite gift store and café will undergo a complete overhaul throughout 2020. Furthermore, following the transition of our food service provider to Lancer Hospitality earlier this year, the café will receive a new identity. Shifting from Penguins Café to Saltwater Café, this change also includes the addition of food and beverage kiosks throughout the outdoor habitats and an expanded counter just outside of the café that will offer food and beverage seasonally as well as provide additional services during special events.

12 | Mystic Aquarium Annual Report BOARD OF TRUSTEES George M. Milne, Jr., Ph.D. (Chairman) Kevin R. Hennessy Senior Partner | Radius Ventures, LLC State Policy Director | Dominion Resources, Inc.

Stephen M. Coan, Ph.D. John Holstein President & CEO | Sea Research Foundation Principal & CEO | First H & M Corp.

Tom Mosey (Vice Chair) Timothy J. Kane President & CEO | Mini Melts, Inc. CEO | Goodway Technologies Corp.

Steven Perrelli (Vice Chair) Richard Katz, M.D. Vice President, Sales Center Operations | Coca-Cola Griffin Hospital (Retired) Bottling Co. of Northern New England Dr. Sarah Kelly Susette Tibus (Vice Chair) TGIR Consulting, LLC Owner | Simply Majestic George H. Kirby, III Leigh Anne Bonney (Treasurer) President & CEO | Ocean Power Technologies (Retired) Michael Lech Peter B. Barr, D.B.A Readco, LLC President | Glenville State College (Retired) Alex Marku Rodney Butler Owner | A Beautiful Company and Buon Appetito Chairman | Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Council Ristorante

Attorney Peter G. Drakos Tom Marra The Law Office of Peter Drakos, LLC Chairman of the Board | Symetra Financial Corporation

Terry D. Garcia Susan Pochal CEO | Exploration Ventures Pochal and Pochal, LLC

Marjorie A. Geiger Jason Reese Alinea Strategic Solutions Patrick L. Green, FACHE President & CEO | Lawrence + Memorial Hospital & Stephan Salem Westerly Hospital President | Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation Executive Vice President | Yale New Haven Health Tan Hee Teck Jack Heflin President | Genting Singapore Owner | Heflin Properties

TRUSTEES EMERITUS

Daniel C. Verdier Attorney Carolyn Kelly Cirrus Construction Company, Inc. Suisman Shapiro Attorneys-At-Law

Mystic Aquarium Annual Report | 13 14 | Mystic Aquarium Annual Report PRESIDENT’S COUNCIL

Rob Valenti (Chair) Neal Manchester Vice President & General Manager | Valenti Auto Mall Senior Sales Executive | The Allied Group

Joseph M. Cronin, Ed.D. (Chair) Fátima Matos, Ph.D. Retired Myles Weisenberg (Vice-Chair) Vice President of Development | Brandeis University Alejandro Melendez-Cooper Director | Hispanic Alliance Robert Billington, Ed.D. President | Blackstone Valley Tourism Council Joanne Moukawsher Vice President | Import Auto Christopher P. Bruhl President & CEO | The Business Council of Fairfield Geraldine O’Shannon County Robert J. Patten Jerry Desmond First Vice President, Wealth Advisor | Morgan Stanley Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection (DEEP) Peggy Roberts President | Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce Scott Ficarra Senior Technology Manager | International Gaming Elisse Rosen Technology Elisse Rosen Consulting, LLC

James Gueltzow Jennifer Schwindt EVP, Residential Lending | Washington Trust Tony Sheridan Kurt Harrington President | Chamber of Commerce Eastern Connecticut President | Something Fishy, Inc. Bruce T. Silverstone Jeff Hubbard Retired

Jason E. Kelly Karen Strasshofer Executive Vice President | Moran Shipping Agencies, Inc. Vice President | State Street

Thomas Liguori Attorney | Cherenzia & Associates

SENIOR LEADERSHIP Stephen M. Coan, Ph.D. Roslyn Gilhuly President and CEO Senior Vice President, External Relations

Larry Rivarde Keith Sorensen Executive Vice President and COO Senior Vice President, Facilities and Capital Projects

Robert Constable Allison D. Tuttle, DVM, Diplomate ACZM Senior Vice President and CFO Senior Vice President, Zoological Operations

Katie Cubina Kelly Matis Senior Vice President, Mission Programs Vice President, Education and Conservation

Mystic Aquarium Annual Report | 15 DONOR THANK YOU

What an incredible year we have had, and that is in large part due to the equally incredible support from our donors! Children of all educational levels and socioeconomic standing would not be able to enjoy classroom learning catered to their unique interests and needs. Groundbreaking research could not be conducted, which would prevent our world-renowned scientists from revolutionizing the field of marine science and research. Sustainable solutions for the future of aquaria and fishery practices could not be realized without the dedicated work of conservationists. The list can, and does, go on, and for that we are extremely grateful. On behalf of everyone invested in the Aquarium, be it as an employee, volunteer, member, guest, scientist, conservationist, student or community partner, thank you for keeping our mission strong.

DONORS $500,000+ Jack and Laurie Heflin Tan Hee Teck and Ong Bee Hong Dr. and Mrs. George M. Milne, Jr. KOTA, Inc Turrell Fund Thomas and Michelle Marra University of Maine $100,000 - $499,999 National Marine Sanctuary Foundation Whaler’s Inn Mystic Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Northern National Science Foundation William T. Morris Foundation, Inc. New England Natural Resources Defense Council, Inc. Foxwoods Resort Casino Paul M. Angell Family Foundation $5,000 - $9,999 The Institute of Museum and Library Services The Scripps Family Fund for Education A Beautiful Company, Lancer Food Holdings, LLC and the Arts General Contractors, LLC Yale New Haven Health Lawrence Susette Tibus and Chuck Sneddon The Artac Seel Company + Memorial Hospital Arthur J. Gallagher Risk Management National Oceanic and Atmospheric $10,000 - $24,999 Services, Inc. Administration 11th Hour Racing Block, Janney & Sisley, LLC National Renewable Energy Laboratory Dr. Peter and Mrs. Betsy Barr Kathy Calkins The Honorable Paul and Mrs. Kathy Cravinho Diana and Edward Cassidy $50,000 - $99,999 Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation Chelsea Groton Bank Leigh Bonney and Larry Ritzhaupt Carlin Construction Company, LLC Dr. Stephen and Mrs. Patricia Coan Eversource Foundation The Estate of Deborah Carocari Comcast Dr. Richard Katz Peter Chapin and Stephanie Ackler Day-O-Lite Mini Melts Inc. Charter Oak Federal Credit Union Harvey and Jeanne Demovick Joseph M. Cronin, Ed.D. Dime Bank $25,000 - $49,000 The Curtis and Edith Munson Foundation Gosling Castle Partners Allionce Group, LLC The Dilenschneider Group Jennifer Griffis Aquarion Water Company Jon and Joan Dodd Hartford Healthcare at The William Charles River Laboratories, Inc. Steven and Marion Dodd W. Backus Hospital Community Foundation of Eastern Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation The Per and Astrid Heidenreich Connecticut Peter and Shonah Drakos Family Foundation Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation The Feinstein Foundation Jaguar Land Rover Fairfield The Edward and Mary Lord Foundation Marjorie and Jeffrey Geiger Johnson Brunetti Millicent Gossner Goodway Technologies Corporation Thomas and Julie Mosey Craig Haines Naktenis Family Foundation Timothy J. and Annette K. Kane National Audubon Society, Inc. Katherine Matthies Foundation National Fish and Wildlife Foundation Alex and Rajmonda Marku National Marine Sanctuary Foundation Fatima Matos and Hans Rollema Nordson Corporation Foundation Olde Mistick Village Robert and Jill Patten Pfizer Foundation Matching Gifts Program The Patten-Wright Group at Morgan Stanley Jason Reese Regan Enterprises, LLC Resources Legacy Fund The Rockfall Foundation Rhode Island Foundation Elisse Rosen SBM Charitable Foundation Edward and Carol Sauers SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Stifel Financial Corp. Conservation Fund Ocean Power Technologies StoneRidge Alan and Skye Todd

16 | Mystic Aquarium Annual Report DONOR THANK YOU

Gurdon and Kathy Wattles Peggy Roberts Rick and Jan Krusz The Woman’s Seaman’s Friend Society of Jeffrey and Ana Schneider David Lattizori Connecticut, Inc. Spicer Gas Dylan and Sally Lee Daniel and Karen Strasshofer Import Auto, LTD $2,500 - $4,999 Suisman Shapiro Lux Bond and Green AARP Symetra Financial Corporation Lyme Consolidated School Asahi / America Inc. Valenti Auto Mall Constance and Terrence Markey AT&T Robert and Debra Valenti Ruth M. Marrion Richard Ben-Veniste and Donna Grell The Williams School Kelly and Gregg Matis Berkshire Bank Shelley McBreairty and John Grott Coach Jim and Pat Calhoun $1,000 - $2,499 Matthew and Deirdre McCormack John Carmody Kristen and Del-Bourree Bach Shaw and Laura McCutcheon Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Mary Barravecchia Merwin Memorial Free Clinic for Animals Connecticut Foundation Vincent and Barbara Bernardo Lenore Milner CohnReznick, LLP Glen and Cheryl Bostock Natalie and Timothy Morris Connecticut Sea Grant James Boyle and Thomasina O’Boyle David Mortimer Consulate General Of Canada Brown and Knapp Group Benefits, LLC NAMMCO Winsnes Eastern Connecticut State University Cadd Tech Design Inc. Denis and Britta Nayden First Pic, Inc. Chapel Elementary School John and Laurie Nazzaro Steven Fleischman Craig and Stacey Coleman Lorna and Bob Occhialini Georgia Aquarium Covanta of Southeastern Connecticut The Ocean Project Marc and Barbara Ginsberg Katie and Luis Cubina Colleen and Patrick Pate Hilton Mystic Custom Marine Canvas Perry Charitable Fund Jaguar Land Rover North Haven Joshua Davis Progeny Systems, Inc. Sarah Kelly and Ken Sigel Deans Mill Elementary School ProShares Kerri Kemp Deep River Elementary School Scott and Rebecca Rivard Key Bank Gregory Drab Beth Sandri Richard and Deborah Kollmeyer The Enid Storm Dwyer Foundation Thomas and Candace Sanford John and Julie Leonard Feinstein Education Law Group LLC Thomas and Alicia Settle Market Realty, LLC Financial Benefit Services Corporation Anish Shah Mystic Transportation Raymond and Vincentia Fricano Susan Steiner and John Drew Heather Nealon-Champagne and Hylar and Marliese Friedman Karen Stone and David Schulz Andrew Champagne Terry and Mary Garcia Alan and June Strunk North Slope Borough Department of Michael and Roslyn Gilhuly TD Bank Wildlife Management Gottfried & Somberg Wealth Management TMG Cleaning Services Ocean Community YMCA Grey Sail Brewing Company, LLC Kenneth Tropin Robert O’Shaughnessy Tim and Kim Hebert Two Little Fish, Inc. Michelle and Steven Pagella Kevin and Elizabeth Hennessy Rich Urso Pfizer, Inc. Eric and Dawn Holmgren Tyler and Lindsay Van Buren Pochal & Pochal, LLC Holstein Foundation Mike VanVranken Professional Planning Group International Cordage East Ltd. Daniel and Melissa Verdier Quinlan Enterprises, LLC Eric Janney Waterford Hotel Group Quinn & Hary Marketing, Web, Michael and Ann Johnson Windsor Public Library Design and Advertising Brian and Mindy Kahan Adam and Jennifer Wronowski Thomas P Quinn David and Joyce Kay Laura and Andrew Wyeth

Mystic Aquarium Annual Report | 17 IN-KIND DONATIONS

A Gala Affair (Deborah Dempsey) Foxwoods Resort Casino ADORE, LLC Freshpoint Allie Dearie Photography Garde Arts Theater Kristen and Del-Bourree Bach General Dynamics Electric Boat Ann Marie Barry Get Fired Up Blackstone Valley Tourism Council Anne and Soll Goldenthal Buon Appetito Gosling Castle Partners Nicholas and Camille Burlingham Grey Sail Brewing Company, LLC Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation James Gueltzow Jim and Pat Calhoun Harbor View Landing Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Northern New England Kurt Harrington Comcast Hartford Marathon Foundation Curated Hartford Symphony Orchestra The Day Publishing Company Jennifer and David Keatley Dog Watch Cafe King & King Attorneys at Law Joey Drechsler-Martell Richard and Deborah Kollmeyer Fishers Island Lemonade Peter Kuhn

IN HONOR OF Jackson Street School Paul Stawarz The Varatto Family Andrea Doehne Laurie Tobias Brian and Robin Fierston

Millbury Street Elementary School Jacob Timpe Waller and Jeffrey Walker Taryn Flagg Meghan Hartley Ellie Walker

Cheryl Miller and Robert Florio Sara Kazanowski John and Pandora Wohler Harriet Burrell Mr. Timothy J Phaneuf Susan Pietrogallo and Bob Hagget

Olivia Ribeiro Kenneth Stanhope Dr. Hannah Petkovsek Zillmer Chris Ribeiro Ashley Wiegand Millie Fromm

Stephen and Dianne Shobe Robert Vaida Laurie Tobias Laurie Tobias

18 | Mystic Aquarium Annual Report The Late Show with Stephen Colbert Simply Majestic Litchfield Distillery Six Flags New England Lux Bond and Green Something Fishy, Inc. Masons Island Marina Sperry Tents Michael and Beth Mondello Stone Acres Farm Thomas and Julie Mosey Studio Jeffrey P’an National Marine Mammal Foundation Thurston Foods, Inc. New England Science and Sailing Foundation Donald and Diane Trone New Haven Symphony Orchestra Mr. Ed Tucchio Katherine S. Orr Two Roads Brewing Company Overland Experts, LLC US Valet Pinecrest Golf Club The Whaler’s Inn Mystic Power Posse Productions, LLC Wireless Zone The Real McCoy Spirits Woobamboo Reviewed.com Dr. Anish Shah Silvermine Golf Club

IN MEMORY OF H. and L. Adler Sarah Delano Rosemary Parker Evelyn Agostini Lux Bond and Green Sherri Burdette and Walter Hewitt Bonnie Mullen Denise Barile Ryan Racicot Marianne Midlin Tyler Grotjan Joahn Dowling Alvin and Karen Grotjan Anne Engdahl Tony Calkins KMK Insulation Inc. Amy Gronus Kathy Calkins Eric Rude Lois Kelley Nicole Kelley The Honorable Paul and Kathy Dan and Dolly Lent Virginia Racicot Cravinho Audrey M Bongiorno Everald and Amy Benjamin Mrs. Mushtaq Rahim Muhammad Azeem and Amena Arahim

Mystic Aquarium Annual Report | 19 2019 FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Sea Research Foundation, Inc. d/b/a Mystic Aquarium Financial Information.***

OPERATING REVENUE 2019 Unconsolidated Total: $22,166,545

$551,779

$1,160,214

$1,402,723

$1,883,766

$12, 423,144

$2,064,163

$2,680,759

Admissions Auxiliary Operations Operating Grants Donations Programs/Classes Other Memberships

*** Complete audited financial statements are available upon request from Sea Research Foundation, Inc. d/b/a Mystic Aquarium

20 | Mystic Aquarium Annual Report Sea Research Foundation, Inc. d/b/a Mystic Aquarium Financial Information.***

OPERATING EXPENSE 2019 Unconsolidated Total: $21,105,502

$3,783,009 $3,494,978

$387,608

$425,442

$692,404

$3,487,159 $1,142,691

$1,664,762

$2,396,122 $1,707,133

$1,924,194

Zoological Operations Research & Veterinary Technology Administration Marketing Education Facilities Development Humane Resources Visitor Services Education

*** Complete audited financial statements are available upon request from Sea Research Foundation, Inc. d/b/a Mystic Aquarium

Mystic Aquarium Annual Report | 21 Thank You TO OUR LEAD CORPORATE SPONSORS