Meet Our Team

Marine Conservation Specialist & Co-Principal Investigator for CIMI Kelp

Deidre’s CIMI journey began in 1986, when she wore many hats (and wetsuits) as a science instructor, logistics director and dive director until 1995. After earning graduate degrees in marine science/geology, resource management, and GIS from Moss Landing Marine Labs and Oregon State University, she continued to make significant contributions to marine science, education and conservation.

Deidre has mapped deepwater fish habitats using submersibles, mentored aspiring marine technologists, led a national workforce development center for marine technology at Monterey Peninsula College (MATE) and taught at the college level for 25 years. Now, Deidre is excited to return to her CIMI roots and help its kelp forests thrive again!

CIMI Director & Co-Principal Investigator for CIMI Kelp

Jeff’s journey in outdoor education began on Cape Cod, where he discovered his passion for teaching about the environment. This passion took him from Florida to San Diego, and eventually to CIMI, where he has inspired countless students by sharing the ocean’s wonders and fostering a deep appreciation for the natural world.

Since 1994, Jeff has been the Swiss Army knife of CIMI, embracing nearly every role imaginable: Marine Science Instructor, Assistant Program Director, Aquarist, Divemaster, Sail Director, Summer Science Director, Fox Landing Founder, Toyon Bay Program Director, Island Scholars Director, and now, CIMI Director. Now, Jeff is stepping into another exciting role as the Co-Principal Investigator for CIMI Kelp, working to restore kelp to CIMI’s sites while continuing to inspire and shape the next generation of ocean stewards.

Project Videographer/Photographer (Sally) & Project Tool Builder (Chris) for CIMI Kelp

Sally and Chris Bartel’s CIMI journey began in 1983. They enjoyed 13 years as year-round teachers and administrators at Toyon Bay before moving to the mainland to continue their careers as classroom science teachers.

Sally discovered her love of underwater photography on Catalina Island and has traveled all over the world to film marine life. Chris is a jack of all trades and can create, build, modify and fix just about anything, which has proven to be very useful with the CIMI Kelp Project.

Chris grew up visiting Catalina with his family so he has seen the dynamic marine life cycles throughout those years. He remembers the days when the kelp forest was so thick between Gallaghers and Toyon Bay that you could barely swim through it.

In their retirement, Sally and Chris have thoroughly enjoyed being able to travel back to their island home to participate in the CIMI Kelp Project.