Marine Science Institute
Laura Bajuk currently serves as a Board Member at the Marine Science Institute, where nonprofit management experience and a passion for hands-on education are brought to the dynamic board. Previously, Laura worked as the Director of Development at Menlo College, celebrating the institution's centennial and fostering community among a diverse student body. As Chief Development Officer at the Vista Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired, Laura implemented cost-effective strategies while enhancing funding efforts. Other notable roles include Executive Director positions at the Palo Alto History Museum and the Los Altos History Museum, where Laura achieved significant attendance and membership growth. Laura's extensive background also includes various fundraising and marketing roles, complemented by a BA in Art from UCLA and a Master's program in Museum Studies from San Francisco State University.
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Marine Science Institute
The Marine Science Institute was founded in 1970, around the time that the issue of water resources was becoming a major concern for many Bay Area inhabitants. The Institute's philosophy was founded on the idea that putting students in direct physical contact with their local bay environment will help cultivate their natural sense of curiosity while enriching their understanding of science and fostering a responsibility to protect their environment. Prior to 1970, no bridge existed between environmental concerns and education in the San Francisco Bay area. Few opportunities existed for students to get hands-on experience with the flora and fauna of San Francisco Bay. As one Bay Area professor remarked at the time, "On a clear day we can see the Bay, but there is no way for my students to get their hands wet--in real water." The Discovery Voyage was the first program created that met with great success at the Institute's formation. In 1992 the Institute created land-based programs. These programs include the Shoreside program, the Inland Voyage, and the Tidepool program, which takes place at Pillar Point in Half Moon Bay. In our first year, the Discovery Program served about 4,000 students. Today, we average roughly 50,000 students and adults through all of our programs combined. We are proud to maintain high quality programs, led by expert instructors, earning us Great Nonprofits "Top-rated Nonprofit" status for multiple years. MSI is a non-profit organization and relies on the generous donations of individuals, businesses, and foundations to ensure program costs for schools are as low as possible.