Our Team

The Algae Foundation is governed by a Board of Directors and led by a dedicated staff team, comprised of professionals from industry, national laboratories, academia, and the nonprofit sector. Together, the board and staff bring the Foundation’s education and workforce development programs to life.

We also raise funds to support our initiatives, ensuring that our programs remain accessible at no cost to students, educators, and academic professionals globally. 

Our vision is to serve as a central clearinghouse, collaborator, and coordinator for algal education, workforce readiness, and student mentorship—supporting and preparing the next generation of algal professionals. 

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Board of Directors

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Jesse Traller Ojeda

Board Chair
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Edmund Gaither

Treasurer
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Jake Nalley

Secretary
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Tiffany Cannis

Board Member
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Mike Lomas

Board Member
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Philip Pienkos

Board Member

Staff

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Dr. Ira "Ike" Levine

Chief Executive Officer
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Marissa Nalley

Senior Director of Programs and Operations
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Sydni Higbee

Manager of Operations
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Serena Chen

Senior Programs Manager

Former Algae Foundation Board Members

We would like to thank all members who have previously served on the Board of Directors at the Algae Foundation. We would not be here today without their time and dedication.

  • Pat Ahlm – Served 2013-2015

  • Amha Belay – Served 2013-2015

  • Matt Carr – Served 2019-2021

  • Peter Koffler – Served 2023-2025

  • Michael Lakeman – Served 2013-2018

  • Jonathan Male – Served 2020-2021

  • Cori Messinger – Served 2015-2018

  • Greg Mitchell – Served 2013-2025

  • Rebecca White – Served 2015-2020