Breaking News
Local News

Gandulla selected as superintendent to lead Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary

By NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries 2 min read
Stephanie Gandulla

NOAA's Office of National Marine Sanctuaries is pleased to announce that Stephanie Gandulla, research protection coordinator at Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, has been selected as the superintendent of Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary* .

Gandulla's appointment was effective on Monday.

Gandulla brings extensive experience with the National Marine Sanctuary System and a strong record of leadership in marine resource protection, maritime heritage, research and monitoring, education, outreach, and community engagement. She has played an important role in supporting the development and management of Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary and brings a deep understanding of the Great Lakes and the communities connected to them.

Throughout her career, Gandulla has built collaborative partnerships with government agencies, Tribal partners, local communities, veterans, researchers, educators, and other organizations to advance marine conservation and public engagement. Her experience includes developing innovative programs, supporting scientific research and resource protection, and connecting diverse audiences with the natural and cultural resources of the Great Lakes.

As superintendent, Gandulla will lead the Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary team in working collaboratively with communities and partners to protect and understand the region's nationally significant maritime heritage and marine resources.

NOAA looks forward to Gandulla's leadership and to continued collaboration with the many communities, Tribal Nations, government partners, organizations, and individuals who share a commitment to protecting and celebrating Lake America.

Together, this combination of experience positions her well to lead the sanctuary's continued efforts to protect resources while supporting the community and its stakeholders. Please join us in welcoming Gandulla to her new role as we continue working together to advance the mission of the sanctuary.

*Pursuant to Executive Order 14422, “Honoring the American History of the Great Lakes and Renaming Lake Ontario as Lake America,” NOAA is updating its materials, websites, and other items to reflect the renaming of “Lake Ontario” to “Lake America.” Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary was established through a public designation process, and as result, the sanctuary currently retains its original name, while current federal geographic references to the lake use Lake America. Any changes to the name of the sanctuary will be completed through a public rulemaking process.

Starting at /week.