Monterey Bay Aquarium recognizes Ocean Champions Dr. Kate Huckelbridge and Samantha Murray

Monterey Bay Aquarium named California Coastal Commission Executive Director Dr. Kate Huckelbridge and California Fish and Game Commissioner Samantha Murray as its annual California Ocean Champions for leadership in defending the state’s ocean and coast.

Aquarium Executive Director Julie Packard presented Huckelbridge and Murray with the awards during a ceremony at California Ocean Day in Sacramento.

“Dr. Huckelbridge’s and Commissioner Murray’s efforts are critical to ensuring California’s coastal communities flourish – maybe more so today than ever,” said Packard. “Through their work, California continues to be a model for the world for how to protect coasts and the ocean and make it accessible to all.”

Huckelbridge received the award for her longstanding and steadfast commitment to protecting California’s iconic coast and ocean. California’s Coastal Act has stood for 50 years as a promise that the state’s coast remains accessible, protected, and resilient. Huckelbridge guides the implementation of the Act as Executive Director of the California Coastal Commission. Along with her, the Commissioners and Coastal Commission staff advance environmental justice, safeguard public coastal access, and protect habitats. The Commission continues to navigate the complexities of coastal development and climate change under her leadership, setting the standard for coastal protection.

“I’m truly honored to receive and share this special award with the many environmental stewards and elected leaders who’ve been named Ocean Champions before me,” said Huckelbridge. “This meaningful recognition from the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Ms. Packard helps fuel our collective efforts to respect and care for our invaluable marine ecosystem and ensure coastal access for all.”

The Aquarium recognized California Fish and Game Commissioner Murray for guiding policies that are grounded in the best available science and reflect a long-term vision for protecting and restoring California's marine ecosystems. As president and as chair of the Commission’s Marine Resources Committee, it affirmed that invertebrate species are protected under the California Endangered Species Act and authorized pop-up gear and other innovations that reduce entanglements and bycatch while keeping fishers on the water. The commission also embraced efforts to improve diversity, equity, and inclusion and deepened meaningful collaboration with tribes during Murray’s seven-year tenure. Of particular note, the Commission stood with tribes to protect Clear Lake hitch and Upper Klamath Trinity River Salmon, relying on traditional knowledge to inform critical management decisions. Additionally, her role as Executive Director of the Marine Biodiversity and Conservation Master’s Program at Scripps Institution of Oceanography supports and shapes the next generation of ocean conservation leaders.

"Leadership in conservation is never a solo effort,” said Murray.  “It’s truly been my honor to work alongside Tribes, communities, and students, who inspire me every day with their commitment and connection to this work. The ocean is ours and we are strongest when we speak together for intact ecosystems, healthy fisheries, and thriving coastal communities. Thanks to Monterey Bay Aquarium for this award and for their unwavering dedication to scientific research, education, and sustainable seafood."

Monterey Bay Aquarium presents the California Ocean Champion Award to people who work to protect the health of California’s ocean and coast. The Awards are part of the Aquarium’s effort to inspire and inform decision-makers to take science-based actions on behalf of the ocean and those who depend on it.

About Monterey Bay Aquarium

With a mission to inspire conservation of the ocean, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is the most admired aquarium in the United States, a leader in science education, and a voice for ocean conservation through comprehensive programs in marine science and public policy. Everything we do works in concert to protect the future of our blue planet. More information at MontereyBayAquarium.org.