The Ladies Behind the Coral

We are two long-time friends with a shared loved for the ocean and this amazing island. This project is us setting out to make a difference and save our favorite reef in Puerto Rico!

Pa'Ti Mar ocean conservation coral restoration project, co-founders, Adriana Terrones and Kristy Himmler laughing with skateboard at Escambron beach.
Kristy Himmler, co-founder of Pa'Ti Mar, focusing on ocean conservation and education.

  • Co-Founder

    Kristy has previously worked for various not-for-profit organizations focusing on education, women’s health, and animal welfare. Her love for the ocean and the critters that call it home drew her into ocean conservation. Kristy loves traveling, surfing, snorkeling, and any activity that is an excuse to be in the ocean.

  • Co-Founder

    Adriana is originally from Chicago, but feels most at home in the ocean. She brings her expertise in education and non-profit work to our team, channeling her commitment into preserving the ocean’s wonders. You will find her unwinding in creative pursuits like painting, dancing and soaking up any moment she can in the water.

The Scientists Behind the Coral

Adriana Terrones, co-founder of Pa'Ti Mar, dedicated to preserving marine ecosystems through coral restoration and education.

  • Coral Nursery Director

    Noel was raised in Puerto Rico’s coastal communities and has built his career around protecting the reefs that shaped him. As Nursery Director for Pa’Ti Mar, he leads the development of the new land-based coral nursery at El Escambrón, guides coral rescue efforts, and trains the team in husbandry and monitoring. His experience spans coral restoration, research, and community engagement across the U.S. Caribbean, grounded in a commitment to equity and representation in marine science. When he’s not in the nursery, Noel finds peace exploring the coast and staying connected to the ocean and creating music.

  • Coral Nursery Technician

    Carlos is a biologist and professional diver with a background in Integrative Biology and Environmental Sciences. His work bridges land and sea, combining field research, environmental monitoring, and technical diving while recognizing the strong connection between inland ecosystems and reef health.

    With experience in scientific and commercial diving, he has supported underwater assessments and coral restoration efforts across Puerto Rico. He is passionate about coral restoration and aquaculture, and values environmental education and community engagement as essential to sustaining the island’s marine resources.

Navigating Home Project

NSF-FUNDED | SEAS ISLANDS ALLIANCE

Through the NSF-funded Navigating Home Project , Carlos works with Pa’Ti Mar as a Coral Nursery Technician, supporting our coral restoration, nursery operations, and community-based marine conservation efforts.

Navigating Home Project

Navigating Home Project →

We are grateful for the support and collaboration that allows us to contribute to this important work and expand opportunities for hands-on marine education, conservation, and restoration in Puerto Rico.

Project Partners & Resources

SEAS Islands Alliance

SEAS Islands Alliance →

This work is supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF) through the Navigating Home Project and the SEAS Islands Alliance.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

  • Joseph Hanratty, lawyer Pa'Ti Mar board member, ocean lover and advocate for ethical fishing

    Joseph Hanratty

    A JD graduate from Stetson University College of Law and practicing lawyer in Florida, extends his legal expertise beyond the courtroom. An advocate for ethical fishing and a passionate steward of the ocean, Joseph intertwines legal excellence with a commitment to environmental responsibility, striving to foster harmony between law and conservation.

  • Rebecca Ramirez, Pa'Ti Mar board member, ocean lover and expert in community engagement.

    Rebecca Ramirez

    A seasoned leader with over 6 years directing community and logistics at SEIU Minnesota State Council and actively involved in Chicago's Fight for $15 movement, serves as our expert in community engagement. Her prior roles as Multicultural Resources Director and Logistics Head underscore her commitment as a community champion, bringing a wealth of experience and boundless passion to Pa'Ti Mar's Board of Directors.

  • Ryan Jones

    A seasoned software development and technology professional, he brings strategic insight and innovation to every endeavor. Deeply connected to Puerto Rico and its coastal communities, he pairs his technical expertise with a lifelong passion for the ocean.

    An avid surfer, boater, and spearfisher, Ryan is committed to coral reef restoration and sustainable fishing practices. Through advocacy and hands-on involvement, he strives to advance marine conservation efforts and protect ocean ecosystems for generations to come.

  • Nicole Murphy, Pa'Ti Mar board member and ocean lover specializing in literacy, education and environmental sustainability

    Nicole Murphy

    A dynamic literacy specialist. Nicole holds a Master of Arts in Women's Studies, a Master of Education, and an EdD in Language and Literacy. Passionate about the crossroads of education and environmental conservation, Nicole dedicates her expertise to outreach initiatives and nonprofit endeavors. As a Board member of Pa'Ti Mar, her mission is to positively impact both academic development and environmental sustainability. Embracing the belief that education is a potent catalyst for change.