1. 1. 2013
2. 2. Since the very beginning, we have had the unique opportunity to impact millions by educating the public and fostering a link between our animals and the Aquariums millions of annual visitors, most of whom would not otherwise know that they exist. Georgia Aquarium is a flagship institution for advocacy on behalf of marine wildlife, for education that enlightens and for leadership that inspires universal movement toward the conservation of aquatic animal life. Since our founding in 2005, we have offered our best in education, research and entertainment in the face of evolving global perspectives, tough economic times and legislative changesand we have only just begun our journey. As we reach our 10th anniversary, we are laser-focused on the work we are doing both today and the work we will do in the future. Our teams are conducting world-class research with global impact beyond anything we ever imagined; and frankly, we are challenged with developing new methods of measuring our impact as we are surpassing our own benchmarks. We also continue to stress the impor- tance of visiting aquariums and zoos, and how a simple visit to Georgia Aquarium allows us to continue to be a window to the oceans of the world. Much of the work we do could not be done without the support of our sponsors, donors and members, who continue to support Georgia Aquarium because of our shared values and commitment to telling the global ocean story. As we strive to maintain this institution as the leader it has become, there is really nothing we can't do. We believe in the impossible and achieve the unimaginable.
3. 3. The worlds most magical aquarium, featuring the largest single aquarium habitat in the world and more aquatic life than any other aquarium in North America. A not-for-profit organization, Georgia Aquarium is dedicated to global leadership in research and con- servation programs mirroring the unique and amaz- ing animals within the facility. Since its founding, Georgia Aquarium has been committed to educat- ing and inspiring current and future generations through respectful display and conservation of marine mammals and many other aquatic species. WHERE IMAGINATIONS GO TO PLAY 1
4. 4. At Georgia Aquarium, the spotlight often shines on the work of our staff and employees. However, within the organization there are thousands of people working behind the scenes assisting with Georgia Aquariums daily operations. These individuals are none other than our volunteers. This team of dedicated and passionate contributors includes seasoned professionals from all disciplines: scientists, journalists, physicians, educators, lawyers and beyond. One of these notable individuals is Kytle Frye. Kytle has served as a Georgia Aquarium volunteer since Septem- ber 2006. Just one year before, he and his wife Debby became members of the Aquarium, but it wasnt until Kytle saw an article in the newspaper about volunteerism that he decided to apply. Though he is a certified scuba diver, Kytle doesnt volunteer within the Aquariums dive program. Instead, he has found a home in interpretive narrations at his favorite exhibit, Ocean Voyager Built by The Home Depot and, on occasion, the beluga whale habitat in the Georgia-Pacific Cold Water Quest gallery. An attorney by day and a volunteer by nights and weekends, the Georgia native and former Marine has been practicing law since 1972 after earning his J.D. from Emory University. He is currently a labor employment litigator and a partner with Fisher & Philips, LLP. There is no downside to being a volunteer. It is the most fun thing Ive ever done in my life, Kytle says. I have never had a bad moment at the Aquarium and have never come into contact with a disagreeable person. Then again, I am a lawyer, so maybe I have a high tolerance for pain, he laughs. His most rewarding experiences are giving behind-the-scenes tours to highly engaged and inquisitive guests, many of whom are VIPs, celebrities and athletes and all of whom become enthralled with the beauty of the Aquarium and the close views that behind-the-scenes tours offer. Kytle now serves within the volunteer mentor program helping new volunteers get acclimated. Every day there is this kind of rush that I feel, he says. Get trained as quickly as you can because you will experience more at the Aquarium. Work in all the galleries and enjoy the fun of getting to know people. If youre working full-time, it may be a challenge, but its worth the sacrifice. Kytle says he wouldnt trade anything for his volunteer experi- ence at Georgia Aquarium. In his eight years of service, hes developed lasting friendships and incredible memories. Find out what you love to do, and then go do it, Kytle offers. kytle frye, volunteer 2 I slept and I dreamed that life is all joy. I woke and I saw that life is all service. I served and I saw that service is joy. --Kahlil Gibran
5. 5. jeremy ellis: member, sponsor & volunteer It's not how much we give but how much love we put into giving. --Mother Teresa 3 When Georgia Aquarium established its membership department, it was with the hope that those drawn to become a member would be truly passionate about the Aquarium and what it stands for as a not-for-profit organization. Youll find that passion in Georgia Aquarium member Jeremy Ellis. Jeremy has been a valued donor, champion member and volunteer since the Aquarium opened in 2005. His involvement is a result of his deep love and appreciation for our oceans. As a member, Jeremys support makes key Aquarium research and conservation initiatives possible. Being a 501(c) 3 not-for-profit organization, the Aquarium relies on the support of the community to grow its programs and scientific efforts. Outside the Aquariums watery world, Jeremy works at Genesis Capital, an independent investment and merchant banking firm, advising public corporations through mergers and acquisitions. Combing his professional experience and personal passion, he co-founded the Aquari- ums Next Wave Society in 2009. The Next Wave Society is a tight-knit group of enthusiastic, young professionals committed to increasing philanthropic support and awareness of the Aquariums exhibits, conservation and research initiatives, and educational programs. Jeremy currently serves on the societys steering committee. As an avid diver, Jeremy serves as a volunteer of the dive program within Georgia Aquariums largest exhibit, Ocean Voyager built by The Home Depot. Over the years he has performed hundreds of dives and has even formed a special connection with Nandi, one of the Aquari- ums four manta rays. However, his favorite moments at Georgia Aquarium are sharing the experience with his family. Jeremy enjoys the multitude of learning opportunities the Aquarium provides for children whether it is connecting with a specific animal, a fun event or the Aquariums lecture series. Jeremy specifically donates to Georgia Aquariums research and conservation projects which he is most passionate about coral restoration and whale shark research. His donations have helped to purchase rebreathers and scooters that extend time underwater for divers, which ultimately help them accomplish their goals more efficiently. Jeremys involvement with Georgia Aquarium knows no bounds. Jeremys passion for the Aquarium will extend beyond his lifetime as he has chosen to include Georgia Aquarium in his estate plans, allowing his legacy to continue for years to come. Dont ask Jeremy if he enjoys giving back because he will tell you he doesnt give back, he believes in simply giving. I challenge people only to give where they are going to see measureable results. He borrows this motto from the Aquariums benefactor and founder, Bernie Marcus. Jeremy sees those measurable results when donating to Georgia Aquarium.
6. 6. Like every team member at Georgia Aquarium, Nicole Dawson proudly dons the G-fish logo on her uniform. However, Dawson has the distinction of being one of the few to have also worn a G-fish hard hat. She has been here since the beginning when the building was only a blueprint. In 2005, Dawson launched Georgia Aquariums call center, joining the team as Call Center Manager. This wasnt unfamiliar territory, for Dawson had previously launched Zoo Atlantas call center in 1991. However, with four call center sites under her supervision and 55 team members, manag- ing the Aquariums call center is no small feat. For many guests, Dawson and her team are their first impression of Georgia Aquarium. This is a role she does not take lightly. The Aquarium is an ever-evolving, fast-paced, learning and entertainment venue. Getting the call center up to speed is imperative for us to deliver excellent customer service. Exceptional customer service is the value she tries to instill in her team; great listening skills, patience and engagement. To do so, Dawson performs training courses every two weeks. Many of these training sessions are conducted on-site, or by phone or video, among the four call center locations in Orlando, Miami, Birmingham and Morrow, Georgia. Her biggest challenge, she admits, is keeping her teams fresh and updated with the latest promotions and campaigns the Aquarium introduces. My team understands the significance of being a guests first contact, she says. They know that I care about the guests, what guests think about the Aquarium and that it is our role to answer questions, provide information and contribute to the guests experience before they walk through our doors. If you were to ask Dawsons family and friends to name an ideal job for her, Georgia Aquarium would be at the top of their list. My friends say this [career path] is so me! she shares. They know Ive always had a fondness for animals; I am an animal-lover and they know Georgia Aquarium as an awesome place to work. Around the water cooler, when chatting about count-on-me, dependable co-workers, Dawsons name often comes up. For her, its a humbling honor. My reward is knowing that Ive made a difference in some- ones day; knowing that Ive added to their knowledge and helped them gain access to memories that will last for years to comeand that goes for everyone, guests and my co-workers. 4 nicole dawson, call center manager Be not simply good; be good for something. --Henry David Thoreau
7. 7. More than 100,000 students visit Georgia Aquarium every year. They come through our doors wide-eyed, curious and enthused. Our galler- ies become their classrooms and our exhibits become their chalkboards. In educating these very special guests, we aim to create learning experiences that are transformative, engaging and aligned with performance standards as set by the United States Department of Educa- tion. Our mission is to foster student appreciation for aquatic life and animal welfare. Our educational programs are designed to expand a childs knowledge, quest for discovery and sense of responsibility to protect aquatic animals and their habitats. We achieve this objective by offering close and instructive observation of the animals, education stations, behind-the-scenes tours, interactive digital kiosks, hands-on touch pools and experiences, interpretive graphics, engaging videos, and live conversations with our experts. Each year, more than 20,000 of these students receive free admission as part of our Sponsored Education Admissions (SEA) program. SEA offers admission to Title 1 students, who may never have the opportunity to experience the ocean first hand. The SEA program is largely supported by generous dona- tions from individuals, local business and corporations. We want students to return to school having seen more than just beautiful creatures and habitats; we want them to return to school with an inspired vision on how they can make their own impact. 5 education
8. 8. 6 Our deep commitment to marine life is manifested in our impactful research and conservation program. As a leading facility for aquatic animal conservation and research, one of our greatest accomplishments has been conducting research to improve husbandry methods, contribute to the understanding of the underwater world and apply new discoveries to the conservation of aquatic life. This was a milestone year for research projects conducted within the walls of Georgia Aquarium. With almost nine years of in-house care of thousands of aquatic species comes extraordinary research opportunities. For the first time, these opportunities have allowed our scientists to explore the internal biology of the worlds largest fish species, the whale shark. These studies have served to complement a number of other research groups that are beginning to examine the biology of this species in the field, which was largely unknown until recent years. The manage- ment of a collection of whale sharks in an Aquarium setting has presented truly unique and exciting in-house research opportunities that are quite different than those underway in field populations. To date, studies of animals in human care have focused on behavior, functional anatomy, basic biology and internal physiology and homeostasis. In October 2013, Georgia Aquarium hosted the Third International Whale Shark Conference, an interactive roundtable about the burgeoning science surrounding the species. The conference provided a steady stream of content for outreach and education programs, thereby enhancing global efforts to preserve and protect the whale shark. Another primary 2013 Georgia Aquarium research project was the Bottlenose Dolphin Health and Environmental Risk Assessment (HERA), which was held in Charleston, SC and the Indian River Lagoon in Florida. Since 2003, HERA has documented zoonotic diseases, contaminant issues and other factors such as antibiotic resistant bacteria that have important human health implications. Georgia Aquarium is currently the only organization conducting field research on Atlantic manta ray populations and has developed successful strategies for locating the mantas, attaching satellite tags and tracking their migratory routes. Whale shark research focused on conservation measures, photographic identification, and behavioral and satellite telemetry in Mexicos Yucatan Peninsula also continues. Additional Aquarium field research projects included health assessments on beluga whale populations in Bristol Bay, Alaska, health and nutrition work with sand tiger sharks in Delaware and sting rays in Grand Cayman, nutritional studies on green sea turtles and spotted eagle rays, coral restoration in the Florida Keys, contaminant research on fish from Sapelo Island and Antillean manatee research in Puerto Rico. Pathology studies on stranded marine mammals and dolphin photo identification studies continue to be conducted at the Georgia Aquarium Conservation Field Station in Northeast Florida. Georgia Aquarium also continued to sponsor African penguin rehabilitation programs at SANCCOB in Cape Town, South Africa. We know and understand that proper research requires both field and aquarium settings. While we can learn a tremendous amount from animals in human care, it will always require extrapolation to apply these findings to wild populations. There remains no substitute for field work when it comes to collecting the most biologically relevant data about species under our study. Through collaboration with talented specialists, we have come a long way in just a few years in the aquarium setting. By committing to ongoing, creative and collaborative research activities, we can continue to fill missing pieces in the scientific understanding of one of the worlds largest and most unusual marine species. research & conservation
9. 9. At Georgia Aquarium, we are committed to inspiring our guests through the use of entertainment. We continually strive to make the guest experi- ence as exciting as possible. By opening the heart, we engage the mind to help care for our oceans. In 2013, Georgia Aquarium unveiled three new Animal Interactive Programs: Dolphin Encounter, Sea Otter Encounter and Penguin Encounter. Through these programs, guests can get closer to their favor- ite aquatic animals. In concert with our immersive interactions, these programs educate guests on the animals at Georgia Aquarium while inspiring them to participate in conservation efforts on their behalf. In September 2013, Georgia Aquarium introduced its first new touring exhibition in nearly two years, Sea Monsters Revealed: Aquatic Bodies. This extraordinary exhibition of the worlds largest plastinated sea creatures connects guests to real sea animals, unveiling a unique look at the mystery and magic of the deep sea. 7 entertainment
10. 10. From the waters of the Yucatan Peninsula to the sandy coast of South Africa, Georgia Aquarium is a leader in aquatic animal conservation research and education. Bottlenose dolphins, sand tiger sharks, manta rays, African penguins, sea turtles, whale sharks, coral reefs: All benefit from our collaborative efforts with like-minded institutions and renowned researchers. Every day, researchers in our exhibits and labs learn more about marine life in order to develop new methods of animal care and veterinary medicine. By combining field research with the study of on-site animals in an aquarium setting, we are able to contribute to the advancement of human knowledge in animal science. Now, we are empowering our supporters to join us in taking action with the launch of a public education campaign on behalf of beluga whales. advocacy beluga whale conservation project 8 Georgia Aquarium is spearheading a Beluga Whale Conservation Project to sustain the North American beluga population in human care. The reasons are two-fold and are important to the ultimate surviv- al of the species globally. We must ensure our guests can connect with these magnificent animals for generations to come and continue to be inspired to do their part to conserve them. Furthermore, as scientists, we must continue to have the opportunity to study, observe and learn from them while in our care, so that we can know everything we need to know to inform conservation efforts on their behalf in the wild. We are advocates for belugas, and this advocacy is demonstrated by Georgia Aquariums commitment to the conservation of the species. Our Beluga Whale Conservation Project is precedent-setting. The journey presents many challenges. But we are proud to find a solution to this important issue. This initiative is part of our four-tiered, ongoing approach to conserving and protecting belugas. Our activities include: 1. Educational initiatives that inspire others to conserve belugas and the species' natural habitats 2. Participation in cooperative breeding and research programs among North Americas accredited institutions, applying known and successful practices to build a sustainable population 3. Conservation and research of belugas in the wild and in human care 4. Sharing our knowledge and experience with the international scientific and conservation community
11. 11. 9 caring together The words Caring Together apply to everything Georgia Aquarium and our supporters do for animals everywhere. In late 2013, we launched the Caring Together for Belugas campaign geared to educate the public about the vital role that zoos and aquariums play in wildlife research, conservation and education. The focus of the campaign is an online action center featuring videos, infographics, facts and interactive components; it serves as a hub to give a voice to our supporters. Visitors to the action center at CaringTogetherforBelugas.org are encouraged to take action and make a difference by: Signing a petition in support of the Beluga WhaleConservation Project and the important research it conducts on behalf of marine mammals, both in its care and in the animals natural habitats Sending a letter to the U.S. Department of Commerce showing support for the Georgia Aquarium Beluga Whale Conservation Project Sharing photos and memories of personal moments with belugas and other animals in accredited zoological facilities The goal of this campaign is to amplify support for zoos and aquariums and mobilize the millions of supporters who will defend the Beluga Whale Conservation Project and other valuable conservation programs. Support for this campaign continues to grow, and among those supporters are the more than 182 million annual visitors to aquariums and zoos in the United States more than all major league sporting events combined. It is our mission to continue our advocacy for marine life and to instill public understanding and appreciation for animals everywhere. Join us in the year ahead, and show you care by visiting CaringTogetherforBelugas.org or using #CaringTogether.
12. 12. 10 Telling the Georgia Aquarium story is now more important than ever to promote additional visits and support advoca- cy programs. Millions of people are engaging every day in digital conversations about the work we do. Record num- bers of broadcast, print and digital media are helping articulate Georgia Aquariums initiatives and are inspiring guests to visit so they can learn, first-hand, what they can do to help marine life. Each weekend, more than two million viewers nationwide in more than 200 markets tune in to their local ABC stations to learn about the research and conservation efforts onsite at Georgia Aquarium and in the field. Now in its third season, Ocean Mysteries with Jeff Corwin from Georgia Aquarium is consistently ranked number-one in its timeslot out of all channels. In 2013, the series focused on Georgia Aquarium research projects including sting ray research in Grand Cayman with the Guy Harvey Foundation, sand tiger shark research in Delaware, and manatees in Puerto Rico. Georgia Aquarium staff also joined Jeff Corwin in Hawaii, Canada and California as, together, they learned about part- ner research initiatives together. The launch of Georgia Aquariums new interactive programs kicked off a major summer media tour, yielding impres- sive coverage and driving additional visitors. Our message reached a multitude of cities including: Atlanta, Birming- ham, Chattanooga, Macon, Augusta, Orlando, Greenville, Columbus, Charlotte, St. Augustine, Mobile and Jacksonville. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution wrote a feature story on animal encounters, including Dolphin Encounter, which was highlighted on the front page of the Living Section. Overall, 24 print stories and 21 broadcast hits were secured with the majority of the broadcast hits featuring a Georgia Aquarium spokesperson. Georgia Aquarium continues to be on the frontlines of advocacy for animals. An example of this stance is our desire to share the story of our Beluga Whale Conservation Project with the world. The communications department has worked closely and proactively with local and national media to clarify and amplify the facts related to beluga conser- vation. Media coverage has demonstrated the importance of the initiative for belugas globally, and the critical role aquariums and zoos play in our society in addition to developing a national public education campaign to persuade key audiences about the long-term value of aquariums and zoos. telling our story
13. 13. 11 John R. Adams and Family Fred & Patti Adickes Aetna Mr. & Mrs. William J. Albertson ALSCO Industrial Products Ames Scullin O'Haire, Inc. Amico Seasafe Answernet Arapoglou Family Argos USA Arnall Golden Gregory LLP Wayne, Joan, Nicole & Lindsey Aronson Asahi of America Association of Zoos & Aquariums AT&T Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau Atlanta Light Bulbs Atlanta Marriott Midtown Suites Autumn Conde Bryd & Alice Ball Bank of America Charitable Foundation Tad & Norm Berkowitz Candy & Stephen Berman Melissa, Michael, Emily & Zachary Bernstein Robert & Jessica Betzel Bill & Liz Cary Mr. & Mrs. Frank S. Blake Marshall and Leslie Bloom Bloomberg LP BoggsVickers Architects Kevin & Julie Boulware Caryn & Michael Boxer & Family Brasfield & Gorrie, LLC Ginny & Charles Brewer Ron & Lisa Brill Mary Ellen & Neil Brigham Gene Burleson C&H Industrial Thalia and Michael C. Carlos Foundation Sara Cattivera Barbara & Steve Chaddick Chisel Productions Chubb & Son, A Division of Federal Insurance Company The Coca-Cola Company John & Lynn Cogan Convergint Technologies LLC Ada Lee & Pete Correll Janet & John Costello Courtyard Marriott Downtown Coxe Curry & Associates Valeria M. Verduce & Cameron J. Crandall The Crosby Family Judy & Scott Crothers Margaret & Dave Crow Dr. Lawrence Davis & Family The DeKinder Family Michael Demmons Dennis Taylor & Co., Inc. Thomas & Julie DePalo Desert Star Systems LLC The Dickens Family Becky & Jim Dockter DoubleTree by Hilton Atlanta Downtown The Dennis Earp Family James & Melissa Eaton The Eisenhauer Family Paul & Banu Elizondo Embassy Suites Centennial Olympic Park Danielle Etzbach Event Network Nickolas Faust and Sheri Sharr Bryan & Barbara Fields Family Foundation FirstPro Philadelphia Ford Motor Company Charities Mark & Elizabeth Friebel Kevin, Emily & Katie Frost Chuck Fuhr Marie Gafney Michael Gallagher The Garcha Family Virginia & Henry Garmon Denise & Bill Garrigan GE Lighting Georgia Power Foundation We are very appreciative to have the support of so many individuals and corporations in the Atlanta community and beyond. Georgia Aquarium would like to offer a special thanks to its Presenting Sponsors; AT&T, Georgia-Pacific, Southern Company, Southwest Airlines, SunTrust Banks, The Coca-Cola Company and The Home Depot. Their unwavering support has granted us the opportunity to pursue our mission in more ways than we could ever imagine. thank you to our donors Even the smallest act of caring for another is like a drop of water it makes ripples throughout the entire pond. --unknown
14. 14. 12 Georgia-Pacific Georgia-Pacific Foundation Glen & Martha Emory Dr. Alexander Gluzman The Goldblatt Family Stephen Golton & Sheelagh Cafferkey Goodman Decorating Company, Inc Jim & Alison Gorrie The Gould Family Foundation Guy Harvey Inc. Guy Harvey Ocean Fund Kristie Hacke Nancy Hall Halperns' Jeff & Sue Hamilton Hampton Inn at Georgia Tech Jim & Susan Hannan Hard Rock Cafe Atlanta Harwood Management Group, Inc. Heery International John Heller Henderson Electric Rachel & Chris Higgins The Hilker Family Hilton Atlanta Hilton Garden Inn Downtown Holiday Inn Downtown Michael Hosfeld Hyatt Regency Atlanta Seth Johns Tom & Edwina Johnson Foundation Brent Jones & Tammy Richter Jones David and Jennifer Kahn Family Foundation Dr. Bobby & Rebecca Khan & Family KIA Motors Matt & Andrea Klopman Greg Knosher The Koonin Family Jason Kraker Jan Van Laar Thomas & Michelle Lall Lanier Parking The Michael and Andrea Leven Family Dr. & Mrs. Nori & David Levine Bert Russo & Deborah Levy Liberty Mutual The Linzer Family Litton Entertainment Loews Atlanta Hotel Ruth Lopez Madewell Products Mahalo Marketing Inc. The Mainzer Family Bernie & Billi Marcus Frederick & Nancy Marcus Marroitt Marquis Tripp & Ginnie Martin The Martinez Family David & Kerrie Marvin Matthew & Lilly Anne McClain McKenna Long & Aldridge, LLP McKenney's, Inc. McMaster-Carr Craig & Dawn Menear Randy & Janie Merrill The Arthur & Sarah Merrill Foundation The Middelthon Family John Mills & John Skinner Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Moore Moore Stephens Tiller LLC Michael A. Morris & Family Nassal Company Neadwerx Nelson Family Foundation Joe Norton Nossaman, LLP Office of Naval Research Omni Hotel at CNN Center The Oosting Family Organization of American States (OAS) The Osborn Family oXYGen Financial, Inc. Heather Park Katy Paulsen PGAV Destinations Piedmont Healthcare Bernie Que The Rakusin Family Ray's Restaurants Regions Bank Renaissance Atlanta Midtown Restaurant Associates Ritchey Family Foundation Robert Uiterwyk Ray Robinson & Family Ruthie Rollins The Rosario Family Renee Rosko William & Nancy Ross Robert & Trisha Russel Dr. Arthur & Dr. Patty Schiff Walter W. Mitchell & Marci P. Schmerler The Schoenrock Family SharpShooter Fred Sherberger Mark, Kim, Eve, Sage, Luke & Matthew Shumatel Ronald Slates Socon Southern Company Southwest Airlines Staples Advantage Steele & Associates SteelFab John & Betty Sue Strange SunTrust Banks, Inc. SunTrust Foundation Jim & Jonnie Swann In Honor of Melanie Anne Taylor Kenneth & Michele Taylor Team Artboy Linda & Mel Teetz The Home Depot The Ocean Foundation The Ritz-Carlton, Atlanta Downtown The Ritz-Carlton, Buckhead The Westin Peachtree Plaza The World of Coca-Cola Jaime Theriot & Wes Tailor Bryce Thomason & Shannon Prewitt Dr. Ramie Tritt Twelve Atlantic Station Twelve Centennial Park UBS Financial Services The Usdan Family The Valduga Family / The Evans Family Eric and Sharlene Van Boer The Van Horn Family Verint Systems, Inc. Yashwant Verma Virgin Unite Janet Wade Janet Walker Luke & Kim Walter Stan and Kathy Walters Victor Warland Melodie & Randy Watson Kristen & Jim Weathersby Felicia & Joseph Weber Wells Fargo Insurance Services Ben & Ramona White Betty White Susan & Tony White Sarah Wilson WSB-TV Yancey Power Systems The Zaban Foundation Zep Inc. Robert & Connie Zerden Suzan Zoukis Barry & Dawn Zurbuchen donors
15. 15. 13 Aqua Vino The 8th Annual Aqua Vino wine and food event offered 1,400 guests and supporters an unforgettable evening of Atlantas best food and wine all set before the magi- cal windows of Georgia Aquariums Oceans Ballroom and galleries. Celebrity Cruises, Cola-Cola and AIG, along with 30 other sponsors, partnered with us to raise more than $221,000 to support research and conservation initiatives through the Correll Center for Aquatic Health. Red White & Brew On July 4, 2013, Georgia Aquarium celebrated the Fourth with brews, food and music. Guests were offered over 30 styles of beer and cider while enjoying the breathtaking views in the Aquariums Oceans Ballroom. Red White & View is a family-friendly event atop Georgia Aquariums parking deck. Over 1,500 guests viewed the Souths largest firework display from Centennial Olympic Park. Over $75,000 was raised for Georgia Aquariums SEA (Sponsored Education Admis- sions) Program, providing free or discounted admission to groups and individuals who would not otherwise be able to visit Georgia Aquarium. Fish & Chips Golf Tournament The continuation of a great tradition, Georgia Aquariums 8th annual Fish & Chips Golf Tournament was held at the world-class East Lake Golf Club on Tuesday, May 22, 2013. With 150 players in atten- dance, 47 Corporate Sponsorship participants and over $179,000 in total funds raised, the event was a celebrated day of competition and camaraderie. To date, this event has raised more than $1.7 million for Georgia Aquariums education programs, which has benefitted more than 850,000 students. fundraising/membership highlights
16. 16. 14 year in review guests in 2013 2.1 Georgia Aquarium educated, enlightened and entertained more than million interpretive programs Over 650 wounded veterans have participated in the swim & dive programs since its start, with another 305 scheduled in 2014. Since opening our doors in November 2005, Georgia Aquarium has reached guests from more than 160 countries, instilling a global appreciation for the worlds aquatic biodiversity. The following are a few 2013 highlights: was introduced as the newest traveling exhibition to Georgia Aquarium. Georgia Aquarium maintained an active base of 1,800 volunteers who served 16,000-20,000 hours each month, one of the largest volunteer bases at an aquarium or zoo worldwide. Georgia Aquarium facilitated more than 70 off-site events, reaching a grand total of 1,801,779 people and securing 36,210 direct contacts via email capturing. We strengthened our advocacy position with more than 6,000 guest experiences in our new animal interactive programs. This was in addition to more than 7,700 guest experiences through our Journey with the Gentle Giants and Beluga & Friends Interactive Programs. The Journey with the Gentle Giants swim & dive program celebrated five years of delighting Georgia Aquarium visitors. A grand total of 27,000 guests have experienced the underwater wonder of swimming and diving with manta rays and whale sharks since the program began.
17. 17. 15 membership events over 2012, with a 2% increase in revenue.10%membership by In 2013, Georgia Aquarium increased its In the fiscal year of 2013 (FY13), our generous and committed donors provided funding for several Georgia Aquarium missions. $358,240 was raised in support of Georgia Aquariums research and conservation initiatives. More than 1,400 drivers around Georgia supported Georgia Aquariums license plate program, which provided more than $14,000 to support conservation and research programs through the State of Georgias revenue sharing program for license plates. More than 13,500 households supported Georgia Aquarium through the purchase of memberships at all levels. Globally, Georgia Aquarium welcomed members from all 50 states and 11 countries. 125,159 guests to Georgia Aquariums various ballrooms, This year, 409 events brought generating more than $4.1 million in revenue. Over 20,000 kids received free or discountedadmissions through our Sponsored Education Admissions (SEA) program.
18. 18. 16 research & conservation education The Aquariums Sponsored Education Admissions (SEA) program allowed nearly 20,000 students enrolled in Georgias Title 1 schools to visit Georgia Aquarium. SEA greatly lowers the cost of admission for students and, in some cases, provides free admission. 644 students attended Camp H2O during the summer and winter season, including those with varying levels of Autism or non-verbal learning disabilities. Georgia Aquarium participated in 15 primary research projects including work with bottlenose dolphins, whale sharks, manta rays and coral reefs. Twelve research papers were authored or co-authored by Georgia Aquarium team members. Since 2012, more than 1,100 team members have participated in conservation-focused training courses totaling nearly 3,500 hours of conservation- specific training. Georgia Aquarium Conservation Field Station facilitated and assisted with the rescue of 56 animals in distress in their natural habitats. More than 1,100 teachers have benefitted from Georgia Aquariums professional development training, indirectly reaching another 35,400 students. As a premier marine science education institution, Georgia Aquarium reached more than 117,000 students through programs and aquarium events in 2013. This is inclusive of school group visits from local and regional schools and learning centers; and 16 in-school outreach programs with seven Georgia schools in four counties serving 674 students.
19. 19. 17 Dear Friends, When we were just a vision, you encouraged us. As we grew, you offered your guidance, desires and strengths toward building our strong framework; and as we succeed, you celebrate alongside us. While we have shared various facts and figures within this report, we know that your support is immeasurable. In fact, our strength is not in our numbers, but it is in our shared devotion to achieving the unimaginable. Since the beginning, we busied ourselves with laying the groundwork in explorative marine research, compiling data to support our conservation campaigns and developing educational platforms that are impactful for guests of all ages. From that work, many have been able to experience the gift that is Georgia Aquarium; however, we remain steadfast in our goal of being a window to the waters of the world for audiences as far-reaching as possible. We will meet this goal daily by providing the qualities that will maintain our standing and exceed all expectations in our role as an unparalleled facility in the zoological community. As we approach our 10th anniversary, we are excited about the work ahead. It is well within our plans to expand our capacity for research, learning and sharing. We believe that accountability and integrity have been essential to our successes. We adhere to these standards by sharing with you our 2013 annual report and looking forward to all that lies ahead. With appreciation and best wishes, David J. Kimmel President and COO Georgia Aquarium, Inc. Gregory D. Bossart, V.M.D., Ph.D. Senior Vice President, Animal Health, Research and Conservation Kurt Allen Vice President and Director, Marineland Dolphin Adventure Beach Clark Vice President, Information Technology Dr. Brian Davis Vice President, Education and Training Joseph Handy Vice President, Guest Services and Hospitality Camille Hannans Vice President, Human Resources Scott Higley Vice President, Communications and External Affairs Aaron James Vice President, Development and Membership Heather McKeen Vice President, Facilities and Operations Timothy J. Mulican, DVM Senior Vice President and Chief Zoological Officer David Palinski Vice President and Controller Will Ramsey Vice President, Sales Carey Rountree Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing Mark D. Schafer Senior Vice President and CFO Bernie Marcus Benefactor, Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer georgia aquarium executive team
20. 20. global research and conservation 225 Baker Street, NW Atlanta, GA 30313 georgiaaquarium.org