Ashley Hechavarria

I have always had an affinity for all things nature related and I am elated to be able to bring that passion to a new generation here on Maui as an environmental educator with the Hawaiʻi Nature Center. I was born and raised in the swamps of central Florida and spent much of my childhood swimming in springs and logging sea shells off the shoreline. I earned my degree in Environmental Science and Policy at the University of South Florida where I also had the pleasure of participating in marine paleo-biology research. I built my career on informal education with tenure at the Florida Aquarium and Seaworld Orlando as well as serving as a naturalist on board eco tours.

I also bring over a decade of experience as a marine mammal biologist: most of my career was spent in the rescue and rehabilitation of the Florida Manatee as well as coordinating conservation efforts for the endangered monk seal with The Marine Mammal Center here on Maui. I’ve also had the pleasure of acting as conservation coordinator at Pacific Whale Foundation where I was able to get to know our community and its needs here on Maui. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to continue to support Maui’s conservation needs and be a part of this wonderful organization.