There has been much going on behind the scenes at REEF that has kept things humming for the past six years—and hum they have. REEF’s behind-the-scenes secret has been Martha Klitzkie, our steady, can-do Director of Operations. Regrettably, Martha, with her husband Ben and their children, will be relocating to Chicago this month, where Ben will be taking a new job.

Martha’s successes since joining REEF in 2011 are many and enduring. First and foremost, REEF’s budget has doubled, allowing our iconic ocean conservation programs to expand, and REEF’s talented team of staff and interns to increase significantly. During her tenure Martha also inaugurated our Explorers Education Program, which engaged more than 1000 participants from ages 6 to 70 in 2017. In the same period she worked hand in hand with Monroe County to build REEF Fest into a much-anticipated annual event. She also recently partnered with the County in the expansion of REEF Headquarters in Key Largo providing much needed legroom and reshaping our grounds into an inviting nature and picnic park. Martha leaves REEF on strong footing to continue our quarter-century mission promoting and nurturing citizen science in the marine realm. Treasured by the staff, interns, volunteers, contributors and the Board of Trustees, she will be deservedly missed around the office.

Martha will continue in her leadership role, working remotely, for at least the next several months to help make our transition as smooth as possible. We are currently analyzing our leadership structure to determine an alignment that will best serve our growing organization.

Please join us in thanking Martha for her six years of stellar service at REEF Headquarters.