03/18/2026
Dr. Shelby Thomas, PhD, is turning ocean science into real-world impact. As Founder and CEO of Ocean Rescue Alliance International, she leads innovative projects that restore marine ecosystems through artificial reefs, coral restoration, and community science programs that reconnect people to the ocean. From research and conservation to education and global environmental advocacy, her work shows how knowledge can replace fear with understanding. When people learn more about the ocean and the ecosystems that sustain us, they are empowered to protect them.
Sometimes fear comes from what we don’t know. But science, research, and communication transform uncertainty into knowledge and knowledge into action.
When women lead in communication, research, and environmental advocacy, they expand access to knowledge and inspire communities to move beyond fear and toward solutions for our planet.