From planning galas, worldwide speaking events, 5ks, receptions, movie industry parties, science and Super Bowl events, and more, Jacob Petersen brings 10 years of experience from the fundraising and events world to Ocean Conservancy’s Individual Philanthropy team.

Jacob is the Associate Director, Events and Partnerships at Ocean Conservancy. He works with our closest supporters and partners to put on fundraising and outreach events aimed at furthering the organization’s mission and reach across the United States. Additionally, Jacob works with some of Ocean Conservancy’s top supporters, including our celebrity ambassadors.

Previously, Jacob served as Director of Special Events for the Prevent Cancer Foundation, the only U.S.-based nonprofit focused solely on cancer prevention and early detection. Prior to that, Jacob worked at the Jane Goodall Institute alongside legendary conservationist and primatologist, Dr. Jane Goodall DBE, who is best known as the National Geographic cover girl of the 1960s for her study of wild chimpanzees in Africa.

Jacob got his start in events and fundraising working for the California Science Center in Los Angeles where he planned events for the arrival of NASA’s Space Shuttle Endeavour and their annual Discovery Ball gala and headed up NASA’s California Spacefest and the California State Science Fair. Jacob holds a B.S. in Environmental Management from the University of Maryland.

Favorite ocean animal: The narwhal, the majestic whale of the Arctic Ocean.