The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk
Marisa Fajardo currently serves as Conservation Project Manager at The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk since May 2023. Previous experience includes a Research Intern position at North Carolina Zoo, where work involved monitoring social behaviors among male gorillas and reporting findings. Marisa's background also features a Husbandry Work-Study at Duke Lemur Center, a volunteer role at Austin Bat Refuge, and internships at Lemur Conservation Foundation and Austin Wildlife Rescue. Academically, Marisa holds a Master's degree in Environmental Studies from Duke University Nicholas School of the Environment and a Bachelor of Science in Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior from The University of Texas at Austin.
This person is not in any teams
This person is not in any offices
The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk
The Maritime Aquarium inspires people of all ages to appreciate and protect the Long Island Sound ecosystem and the global environment through living exhibits, marine science and environmental education. For more than 34 years, the Aquarium has played a significant role in shaping the landscape of Norwalk and the region. The second largest family attraction in Connecticut, and 50 miles from New York City, the Aquarium historically hosts nearly 400,000 guests annually. Its primary exhibits take guests on a voyage from the shallow salt marshes and estuaries to the depths of the Long Island Sound and the ocean beyond, culminating with habitats for sharks and harbor seals. Altogether, the Aquarium is home to nearly 7,000 animals and over 360 species in 75 exhibits. A new 4D Theater offers a unique sensory film experience for guests. Its education programs introduce approximately 80,000 students, campers and scouts to marine and STEM education. The Aquarium is recognized as a top aquarium in the nation, and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. It is an active participant in the local and regional community. The strength of the Aquarium is its 60 full-time staff, and part-time and seasonal staff, in addition to nearly 300 volunteers, which contribute 28,000 hours annually. While the pandemic challenged the Aquarium in profound ways, the team’s resilience and creativity led to new ways to connect with the community, and renewed optimism for the future. .