Lauren Wenzel

Lauren Wenzel currently serves as the Director of the NOAA National Marine Protected Areas Center, a position held since January 2011, where responsibilities include linking and strengthening marine protected area programs across various levels of government and engaging with diverse partners. Previously, Lauren held the role of Acting Director at the same center and served as the Federal Agency & National System Coordinator from August 2003 to December 2010, consulting with various stakeholders on the national system of marine protected areas. Earlier experience includes roles at the Maryland Department of Natural Resources focused on Chesapeake Bay policy and restoration from March 1993 to April 2003. Lauren holds a Master of Science in Natural Resources Management and Policy from the University of Michigan and a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Government from Oberlin College.