We’re excited to announce the latest addition to our team, Michelle Cartier Homewood! Michelle comes aboard to help SeaDoc on the admin and operations side. While the pandemic has changed things, we’re as busy as ever and Michelle has already proven to be an excellent addition as we prepare for our Cheers to 20 Years virtual event on September 17.

She’s a skilled kayaker (as you’ll read shortly) and has guided trips on Lake Superior, The Caribbean Sea, and of course, the Salish Sea. Michelle is an Orcas Island resident, so she might be a familiar face for some of you.

We peppered her with a few questions so you can get to know her:

How did you end up on Orcas Island and how long have you been here?

I moved here six years ago to be a sea kayak guide for Shearwater Adventures and immediately fell in love with Orcas Island. Definitely can't move back to the midwest after living here!

What’s your educational and professional background?

I have a BA in Speech Pathology from the University of Iowa, with minors in Geoscience and Spanish. I also work as the lead Veterinary Assistant at Orcas Veterinary Clinic and for the past two years, I worked as the volunteer and program coordinator for Kwiaht.

What attracted you to SeaDoc Society?

I have a deep love of the Salish Sea, after spending so much time kayaking out on the water. Working for SeaDoc provides an incredible opportunity for me to contribute to an organization that is working hard to protect the ecosystems I love.

What's your favorite species in the Salish Sea?

Oh gosh, how to decide!? Hooded nudibranchs are tiny amazing aliens. But I admit, nothing compares to the supreme cuteness of a lil’ seal pup.

Anything else you’d like to share before we button this up?

My dog Buck is very excited that I've joined the SeaDoc team since their office is dog-friendly. Only if he works hard though—no slacking, Buck!

Thanks, Michelle! Welcome!