As the Foundation enters its next phase of growth, Hans Cole will oversee the strategic expansion of national initiatives to protect biodiversity and promote “Waters for All.”
Silver Spring, MD – March 12, 2026 – The National Marine Sanctuary Foundation announced the appointment of a new Vice President of Programs, Hans Cole, a pivotal executive role designed to translate the Foundation’s mission into measurable conservation and community impact. Reporting directly to the President and CEO, Cole will join the senior leadership team to oversee the strategic integration of the Foundation’s Conservation, Education, and Outreach departments.
“We’re excited Hans will lead our strategy to grow support and resources for marine sanctuaries’ programs,” said Joel Johnson, President and CEO, National Marine Sanctuary Foundation. “He has a track record of building catalytic support for conservation of public lands and waters and bringing people together to make an even greater impact.”
Based at the Foundation’s headquarters in Silver Spring, MD, Cole will bridge the gap between policy and practice, managing both federal and non-federal grantmaking while building a cohesive narrative of impact for donors, policymakers, and the public.
“Having lived and worked for many years in coastal communities, I have seen firsthand the vital role protected public waters play in sustaining biodiversity, strengthening coastal resilience, and supporting vibrant communities and economies,” said Cole. “I look forward to working with the dedicated team at the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation and its partners to help more Americans forge a deeper connection with and love for our nation’s marine sanctuaries.”
Cole is a seasoned leader with over 25 years of experience driving environmental philanthropy and community activism. Most recently, he directed Patagonia’s environmental initiatives, managing its annual grant program, and spearheading global brand activism campaigns.
Foundation programs and initiatives across conservation, innovation, policy and more, that Cole will lead in 2026, include:
TRAP Program: Removing Ghost Traps in the Florida Keys
Supported by a $146,553 TRAP Program award, the Foundation is leading SCUBA-based removal of “ghost traps” in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary to prevent wildlife entanglement and habitat damage. This initiative combines debris recovery with data collection to drive long-term policy solutions for derelict fishing gear.
Birds Supporting Birds Partnership with the Philadelphia Eagles
The Foundation capped 2025 by launching “Birds Supporting Birds,” a partnership with the Philadelphia Eagles to fund the Shearwater Tagging Project in Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. Starting in July 2026, the public can track the birds’ migratory journeys via interactive maps to better understand Atlantic ecosystem health and climate impacts.
Tauese P.F. Sunia Ocean Center
The Tauese P.F. Sunia Ocean Center, the visitor center for the National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa, reopened on February 19 following a temporary closure for maintenance. The Ocean Center serves as a learning, training and discovery space with interactive exhibits for all ages, highlighting the ecological importance of coral reefs and ocean ecosystems alongside Samoan cultural connections to the sea.
Capitol Hill Ocean Week 2026
On June 2-4, 2026, the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation will host Capitol Hill Ocean Week (CHOW), the nation’s premier ocean and Great Lakes policy conference. CHOW convenes policymakers, scientists, conservationists, industry leaders, and youth voices to address the most pressing challenges facing U.S. waters.
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The National Marine Sanctuary Foundation, established in 2000, is the official non-profit partner of NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries, supporting its system of 18 marine environments from Massachusetts to American Samoa and the Great Lakes to the Florida Keys. We protect these iconic places, care for marine wildlife and habitats, honor our nation’s maritime history and cultural traditions, and promote the enjoyment of these public waters through a combination of coalition-building, private fundraising and federal support.
In a quarter of a century, we’ve expanded and deepened people’s connections and access to our ocean, coasts, and Great Lakes, and built partnerships with coastal communities and businesses alongside the over 629,000 square miles of public waters that belong to all Americans.
Learn more at marinesanctuary.org.
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