The Board of Directors of The International SeaKeepers Society has extended its deepest gratitude to Jay Wade for his exceptional service as Chairman of the Board. During his tenure, Jay provided steady, thoughtful leadership, guiding the organisation through a period of growth and evolution while remaining firmly anchored in SeaKeepers’ mission to advance oceanographic research, conservation, and marine education.
A passionate advocate for the yachting and boating community, Jay remained dedicated to the vision of transforming private vessels into platforms for scientific discovery. His commitment to collaboration and innovation expanded SeaKeepers’ global reach and strengthened its role as a bridge between ocean science and the maritime industry.
Amos Nachoum, 2019 SeaKeeper of the Year & Jay Wade, Chairman Emeritus & Board Member
Jay Wade & Dr. Mark Luther
Jay Wade, Gill Rodrigues & Dr. Mark Luther
As SeaKeepers looks to the future, the organisation is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Mark Luther as Chairman of the Board – marking a historic milestone as the first scientist to hold this role.
Dr. Luther brings decades of expertise in physical oceanography and maritime systems, along with a lifelong connection to the water. He earned his Ph.D. in Physical Oceanography from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and currently serves as Professor and Director of the Center for Maritime and Port Studies at the University of South Florida’s College of Marine Science.
With over 30 years of experience supporting oceanographic observation systems, including his longstanding work with NOAA’s Tampa Bay Physical Oceanographic Real-Time System, Dr. Luther has been at the forefront of integrating science with real-world maritime operations. His leadership extends across key regional and federal committees, where he collaborates closely with the U.S. Coast Guard, port authorities, and maritime stakeholders to address environmental challenges tied to marine transportation.
A dedicated member of the SeaKeepers community, Dr. Luther has served as Chair of the organization’s Scientific Advisory Council, helping to guide and elevate its scientific initiatives. He is also an avid boater and U.S. Coast Guard-licensed captain, having spent more than four decades navigating the waters of Tampa Bay and Florida’s west coast.
“With years of dedicated service to SeaKeepers, Mark brings a deep understanding of our mission to this role,” said Jay Wade. “It is exciting to see him step into the position of Chairman and help guide the organization forward.
Dr. Luther’s appointment signals an exciting new chapter for SeaKeepers – one that deepens the organization’s scientific leadership while continuing to engage the global fleet in meaningful ocean research, education and conservation.
For more information, visit www.seakeepers.org
