Meet the Marine Team: Kimberly Barbour
Let’s meet another member of the CCE Marine Team as we welcome the end of another workweek. For this week’s staff spotlight we’re featuring our Outreach Manager, Kimberly Barbour!
“I can truly say I have never met more dedicated people who commit themselves to their work the way my staff and colleagues do-it’s really inspiring!”
Many of you may already know Kim from the extensive work she does within our local communities. From organizing special events, including our annual Shellabration, to hosting our On the Water + In the Field show, as well as heading up our Back to the Bays Initiative, we're so appreciative of all the hard work she does in leading our outreach efforts. For the past 10 years, she’s been helping raise awareness and funds for CCE Marine Program while working to advance marine and coastal restoration efforts.
To learn more about Kim, check out this mini-interview we had with her recently!
How long have you been with CCE Marine Program?
This summer will mark 10 years - not counting my time as an intern and seasonal employee years ago.What's your position title?
Marine Program Outreach ManagerWhat’s your favorite part of your job?
Helping spread the word about the amazing work being done by CCE Marine by hosting, and helping to produce our “On the Water + In the Field” show. Planning fundraising and awareness events to support this work is a close second!What part of your job would people find most surprising?
Through the years my job has required me to be underwater, on camera, mucking around in marshes, and in front of a crowd hosting special events-sometimes all in one week!What is one thing you wish more people knew about CCE Marine Program?
The incredible passion the CCE Marine Team has for what they do.I can truly say I have never met more dedicated people who commit themselves to their work the way my staff and colleagues do-it’s really inspiring!
Why did you choose to build a career in marine science?
The water has always been an important part of my life. Being born and raised on Long Island and I knew I wanted to work in the marine science field and somehow help our waters, and encourages others to care about them too. Through my undergrad and graduate work I studied both science and communications, and I’m so grateful to have found a career that kind of merges these two disciplines.What do you do for fun outside of work?
Boating, beaching, gardening, hiking-any kind of outdoor adventures with my family.What’s your favorite local seafood dish?
Growing up the daughter of a bayman I have an affinity for shellfish-specifically clams. On the grill, on the half shell, or in chowder!If you could be any marine species what would you be, and why?
A seal. They seem to share in the same level of joy I derive from being free at sea, sunbathing on a beach, or partaking in some crustaceans or fish for dinner-they are my kind of marine friends!
Thank you for all that you do, Kim!
We’ll be back next week with another staff spotlight from the CCE Marine Team!