CPAWS Announces New National Ocean Spatial Analysis Manager Addition of Marine Biologist to aid in GIS marine surveys Vancouver, B.C. – The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS) is pleased to welcome marine conservation biologist Dr. Stephen Ban as its new National Ocean Spatial Analysis Manager. Stephen’s extensive background in biology and marine science, as well as his 15+ years of experience in geographic information systems and spatial analysis will be a great asset to the CPAWS ocean conservation team. “We could not be more excited to welcome Stephen to the CPAWS family. He has exceptional professional and academic experience, which will be an immense resource to us as we advance ocean conservation and marine protected areas in Canada,” says Sabine Jessen, National Director of CPAWS’ Ocean Program. “We’re building a team that’s driven and passionate about conservation and Stephen has the expertise to help CPAWS continue its marine assessments as we strive to develop more marine protected areas,” says Éric Hebert-Daly, CPAWS National Executive Director. Stephen’s appointment as National Ocean Spatial Analysis Manager at CPAWS marks his return to the not-for-profit sector after working with the Cumulative Effects Framework project management team within the Ministry of Forests, Lands, and Natural Resource Operations. Prior to joining the CPAWS team, Stephen worked with World Wildlife Fund Canada, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Parks Canada, and Rescan Environmental Services Ltd. “Conservation biology has been a consistent feature of both my academic and professional careers and I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to science‐based marine conservation with CPAWS,” says Stephen. In addition to his impressive professional experience, Stephen is a published speaker and researcher in the area of marine biology, has an extensive list of accomplishments and certifications, and a record of community and social involvement.  He currently volunteers as a Search and Rescue Technician with the Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue (Unit 33), participated on a photographic judging panel for the International Coral Reef Society, and volunteered with both the Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Centre and the UBC Marine Mammal Research Unit. Stephen’s academic background includes a PhD in Marine Science, an MSc in Zoology, an Advanced Diploma in Geographical Information Systems, and a B.Sc. in Biology with marine concentration and a minor in Biotechnology. The entire CPAWS organization is thrilled to welcome Stephen aboard! -30- For interviews, contact: Karen Turner, National Director of Communications & Development kturner@localhost. Sabine Jessen, National Director of Ocean Program, [email protected].