(Back Row: Pam Pate, Laura Griesser; Front Row: Christianna Mihaiu, Catherine Johansson, Julie Nguyen)
Meet the Staff in the Volunteer Operations Staff!
Catherine Johansson, Assistant Manager for Volunteer Operations
Catherine Johansson joined the Georgia Aquarium as a volunteer at the Aquarium opening, assisting in the galleries and with training classes. Having enjoyed working with volunteers and the public at several aquariums and zoos, Catherine later jumped at the chance to join the staff of the Training and Volunteer Operations department at the world's largest aquarium! Now, as the Assistant Manager for Volunteer Operations, she helps Alex and the office staff plan, execute and evaluate volunteer programs, benefits and procedures. She also oversees the Georgia Aquarium's Internship Program. Come say hi to Catherine in the volunteer office Monday through Friday!
Pam Pate, Volunteer Coordinator
Pam Pate became a part of the Georgia Aquarium team in October 2005 as a gallery interpreter for the Guest Programs department. Her previous experience as a professional storyteller and educator provided a solid foundation for engaging guests and training new staff members. Within a few months Pam had moved to the Training Operations department and in December 2007 she took the role of Volunteer Coordinator. She helps to facilitate new volunteer Orientation supports the Seafood Savvy class, plans volunteer recognition efforts and works closely with the Travelling Trevallies group. Since coming to the Aquarium, she has become a strong advocate of aquatic conservation and developed a new appreciation for the importance of volunteering. Stop by and see Pam in the office Sunday through Thursday!
Laura Griesser, Volunteer Administrator
Laura Griesser joined the department back in 2005 as a volunteer prior to opening. Shortly after opening, she was hired as a part-time member of the Volunteer Operations staff working weekends. Since then, she has survived staff changes, added on more days to her work schedule and eventually advanced to a full-time position. Along with general office duties, Laura facilitates the Youth Volunteer Program, coordinates the volunteer events, and has created the VRC from scratch. Laura's artsy side means that her desk is always full of her weird and wacky creations (ex. gum wrapper art). You can stop by to see her art or find her (typing away at her computer) Tuesday through Saturday!
Christianna Mihaiu, Community Event Specialist
Christianna Mihaiu joined the team in September of 2010, coming from the Big Apple (New York City). She is excited to be starting a new life in Atlanta at the world’s largest aquarium. Her previous experience planning and organizing events for profit and nonprofit organizations provides a solid foundation for handling volunteer recruitment and off-site events. Christianna’s schedule is Wednesday-Sunday, but remember she may be off-site at an event. Drop by the office and say hi or keep a look out for her at our Aquarium booth at off-site events.
Julie Nguyen, Volunteer Specialist
Julie Nguyen started at the Georgia Aquarium as a Hospitality Intern during the busy Summer of 2011. You may have noticed her in a bright red shirt speaking with guests and holding the question mark sign! She enthusiastically engaged guests, interpreted in galleries, and assisted with the hospitality program. After her internship, she became a member of Volunteer Operations staff in September. You can find Julie in the office during the weekend where she is answering volunteer-related questions or in the training center where she conducts orientation classes and information sessions! Julie will graduate from Georgia State University in December 2011 with a B.A. in journalism with a concentration in public relations.