Board of Directors

Stephen G. Dunbar, Ph.D., Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA

President. In March, 2006, Steve began to formulate a plan. After seeing the huge possibilities for sea turtle research, conservation, education outreach and local community development in Honduras and with the help of marine data modeler, Joe Breman, and resort owner, Larry Stevenson, Dunbar began planning the organizational structure of the Protective Turtle ecology Center for Training, Outreach and Research (ProTECTOR). “We spent a lot of time discussing ideas and concepts; how would the organization work? How would we get started? Where would we find funding? There were a hundred other questions. Finally, we just said "OK, it’s time, let’s get it going!” So we did. The company was incorporated in January, 2007 and received non-profit status in May of the same year. “We’re growing quickly, but there’s potential for so much more to do. We’re going to make a difference to sea turtle conservation in Central America!”

Joe Breman, DDS, Hawaii

Vice President. Joe has been a part of the development of ProTECTOR since its inception, helping to form and give direction to the organization. With years of previous experience at ESRI, Joe now assists ProTECTOR with our GIS needs from Hawaii, where he works as a GIS consultant with Akimeka. Joe is committed to the mission and vision of ProTECTOR and continues to contribute time and talent to the important aspect of mapping the spatial data we collect. "We want to draw a picture of home range areas and nesting beaches turtles use in Honduras then look at the habitat features that support these populations."

Lidia Salinas, Honduras

Secretary. Lidia has been an integral part of the plan to open a ProTECTOR office in Honduras. Since finding out about ProTECTOR in 2006, Lidia has been an advocate for the organization and assisted in making contacts for our establishment in the country. With extensive experience in community-based conservation, as well as environmental education, Lidia is well suited to lend leadership and direction to our outreach and research efforts. Lidia has a special interest in working with local communities to develop alternatives to the taking of turtles and their eggs. We’re very excited to have Lidia working with us as a sea turtle ProTECTOR.

Larry Stevenson, Reef House Resort, Roatan, Honduras

Assistant Secretary. A heartfelt interest in the status of sea turtles around Roatan drove Larry Stevenson to seek help in organizing a research and conservation project. One of the originators of the TAPS program, Larry has provided substantial in-kind support to the TAPS program and actively promotes the work of TAPS and ProTECTOR in Honduras, the United States and Canada. His business skills and background lend important experience to the ProTECTOR Board of Directors.

Sabina Dunbar, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA

Treasurer. Sabine Dunbar has a deep interest in nature and a keen eye for spotting wildlife. Although she works as a Nursing Professor, she has experience as a field assistant and enjoys working alongside her husband, Stephen, whenever her schedule allows her to be involved in research. Her attention to detail and experience with finances makes her a good choice as treasurer for the ProTECTOR organization.