Chris Witherspoon

For over 30 years, Chris Witherspoon has been a key supporter of the Virginia Aquarium’s mission to promote conservation through education. Her guidance of the aquarium's education initiatives has influenced the learning journeys of millions of visitors, students, and teachers. Additionally, it has strengthened the Aquarium’s standing as a leader in science communication and public engagement within the zoo and aquarium community.

Witherspoon began her career at the Virginia Aquarium as an educator, driven by her passion for connecting people with the natural environment. Over the years, she has contributed to the creation of a strong and respected marine science education programme. She has developed engaging, inquiry-driven programs for K–12 students and initiated workforce development projects for underrepresented youth, consistently broadening the impact and importance of our educational services.

Under her leadership, the Aquarium’s programs have adapted to the community's evolving needs, embracing technology, integrating climate science, and prioritising accessibility and inclusivity. She has guided curriculum development aligned with both state and national standards, offered professional training for educators, and fostered collaborations with school districts, universities, and informal science organisations. Her strategic vision and dedication to lifelong learning have transformed education from a mere department into a core element of the Aquarium’s mission.

Witherspoon is highly regarded in her field for her mentorship and collaborative approach. She regularly participates in education working groups, serves as a trusted advisor to colleagues across various institutions, and shares her knowledge to support the conservation education community.

One nominator says: "Chris never loses sight of why this work matters. Whether she’s speaking to a classroom of third graders or leading a strategic planning session, she brings a deep sense of purpose and an infectious wonder for the ocean. Thousands of students who first met Chris on an Aquarium field trip have gone on to become scientists, educators, and advocates—a lasting legacy of her influence."