Dive into the Science of SpongeBob: Humans in Bikini Bottom

Did you know that oceans cover over 70% of the Earth’s surface? Whether or not we realize it, human activities can have a huge impact on these watery habitats. Join Museum Educator Michelle Vanegas as she explores some of the biggest challenges our oceans face, like overfishing and plastic pollution, with the help of Heal the Bay's Education Coordinator, Tikiesha Wilson, and Associate Director, Jenna Segal. Learn how we can protect our favorite Bikini Bottom pals from common items that protect us, like masks and gloves, which can be harmful when they end up in waterways.

Register on Zoom for the chance to ask your own questions, or stream this session live on YouTube!

Tikiesha Wilson, Education Coordinator at Heal the Bay Aquarium

“Tiki” is a graduate of the LATTC Chemical Technology Certification program, with an Associate’s Degree in Science. Tiki has been an enthusiastic member of Heal the Bay’s watershed monitoring team since 2011. She was honored by Heal the Bay in 2015 as a “Super Healer”. Her ambitions are to be of service to her city and home, Los Angeles, by protecting our precious waterways. In spring of 2018, she transitioned to our Aquarium as an Education and Outreach Associate, and then promoted to Education Coordinator in 2019. As an Education Coordinator, her reach has expanded to inspire more youth across Los Angeles County, teaching the Aquarium’s field trip programs and coordinating the science camp curriculum and activities. Tikiesha was recently acknowledged as a "Woman of Color in Science" at Heal the Bay Aquarium for Women's History Month 2019. 

Jenna Segal, Associate Director at Heal the Bay Aquarium

Jenna earned her bachelor’s degree in biology from Northeastern University, and coordinates with educators, event planners and others who wish to use the facilities. She also acts as liaison with various city agencies and Santa Monica Pier neighbors, and oversees the facility’s public hours and retail operations. Originally from Massachusetts, Jenna moved out west to enjoy the sunshine and study marine science. She started her career at Heal the Bay as an Aquarium and MPA Watch volunteer, and officially joined the staff in 2012 as the Volunteer Coordinator. She then was promoted to Associate Director at the Aquarium in 2018 and has been recognized for her successful development and expansion of public programming offerings to the local community and organization of equal opportunity and inclusive events for the organization.