Spotlighting Women in STEM at the Aquarium

We’ve highlighted some of the amazing women scientists who work in our Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, but did you know that many of our Aquarium staff members have backgrounds in STEM fields, too? As we celebrate Women’s History Month in March, get to know a few of these women in STEM at the Aquarium!

Samantha Chaves (she/her), Biologist I

Sea Turtle Rescue & Rehabilitation 

“I have always loved being around animals and I am also deeply fascinated by the ocean. I feel fortunate to now be in a role where I get to see two of my great passions play out every day! I have had several incredible female mentors over the years in the marine science and conservation fields. Now, it is wonderful to work alongside so many incredible women both within the rescue department and throughout the whole Aquarium!”

Summer Gagel (she/her), Senior Aquarist

Tropical Gallery, Permanent Galleries team

“I initially became interested in STEM through my family’s annual beach vacations, which sparked my curiosity. Growing up in a landlocked state, I found the ocean absolutely fascinating. I work as a woman in STEM because of the endless opportunities to make a positive impact on our environment. It’s important for women to be in these roles, as we are often underrepresented and deserve to share our unique perspectives in the realm of STEM.”

Adi Behrens (she/her), Aquarist I

Floating Aquarist, Permanent Galleries team

“All my passion and appreciation for the fields of science comes from the first woman in STEM I knew, my mom. She has been a science teacher all her life and taught me to love every living thing on the planet. I eventually discovered my passion was leading me toward the marine sciences, and I have enjoyed every second of learning and then putting into practice everything I’ve learned about the ocean and its residents thus far. Being a woman in STEM is the core of who I am, and I hope that is evident to all who meet me.”

Nicole Milligan (she/her), Aquarist I

Floating Aquarist,  Permanent Galleries team

“For me, it was no question. I was lucky enough to grow up near the Laguna Beach coastline with the ocean being practically a part of my daily life. At any chance I could, I ran off to the beach to explore, swim, and try any water activity possible. When it came time to decide on my career path, my childhood passion led me directly to my journey in STEM. Now, as an adult, I see the importance of my role as a woman in this field. It is of the utmost importance to have a diversity of perspectives when discussing the future of our oceans. The work cannot be done without all of us involved. The ocean will always be my peace, and I will continue to contribute to making that the same for future generations.”

Jordan Baker (she/her), Aquarist II

Cold Marine Gallery, Permanent Galleries team

“I am proud to work in STEM as a woman because it’s outside of my gender’s norms. Having a good understanding of STEM makes me feel gratitude and humility for the reform of female stereotypes throughout the last century”

Lindsay Phenix (she/her), Senior Aquarist

Giant Ocean Tank

“I think my love of science was unknowingly born out of tide pooling on the beach.  I could have spent hours at each pool, examining every tiny creature calling them home.  Being able to turn that curiosity and love for marine life into a career has been a dream come true.  Every day at the NEAq is a new adventure, and I feel so fortunate to be working with an incredible team to advocate for our animals and our oceans and hopefully inspire others to do so, too!”