Posted by Rick Civelli | 02.21.2012 | Employment, WB Surf Camp News

Meet Dani DiIullo our Program Coordinator

Coming to us with a  master’s degree in Marine Biodiversity and Conservation from the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in California as well as a rich background in camp coordination, trip leading, and marine education, Dani DiIullo became our Program Coordinator in 2010. Her energy and “go get ’em” attitude makes for an awesome team  member and an invaluable part of our staff. Anyone who has seen her in her element knows that she has a passion from marine education and loves working with children and teens.

Dani has worked for many different organizations such as the Catalina Island Marine Institute, Ocean Discovery Institute, National Ocean Sciences Bowl, UNCW, and the Smithsonian. She has led programs in California, Nevada, Hawaii, Washington state, Florida, Greece, Italy, and of course North Carolina. We are incredibly lucky to have someone as talented and willing to push us to a whole new level. In an effort to share with you a little bit about her and the awesomeness contained within her, keep reading…

1. What drew you to a position at WB Surf Camp? I love working with students, and having the opportunity to create and coordinate programs that allow them to experience the ocean in such a positive way. It’s something that I have been looking for. In this company you really feel like part of a family, and that is something that was evident from the interview and moving forward.

2. Why do you like working with teens? I admire how they view the world, and their energy keeps me motivated. Their sense of inquiry into the natural world always inspires me. When I present information on current issues dealing with the ocean and the environment, teens are so willing to get involved in the solution – they aren’t intimidated by any obstacles.

3. In what way has the ocean impacted your life? There is not enough space for me to answer this question. I have traveled around for work a lot, lived in many different locations, but I will never be far from the ocean. It inspires, soothes, and provides great adventures. Every day that I get to be out there is a great day.

4. What is your favorite place you’ve traveled to? Tough question. I love many things about the all the adventures that I’ve had. Probably the most memorable experience was spending 5 months studying abroad in Australia, but my recent trip to Africa was a close second!

5. Who/what is your biggest inspiration? My family has always inspired and supported me, even as I go through phases of wanderlust and financial uncertainty. No matter what crazy adventure I want to have next, I know that they will be there when I come home. I have also had some incredible students over the years that have inspired me to learn more, become a better educator, and develop better programs.

6. What past experience has changed your life the most? Traveling has taught me to be independently motivated and challenge my boundaries. I love meeting new people, discovering new places, and learning new things.

7. What is your favorite activity? Anything in the water, especially snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and now SUPing.

8. What is your favorite movie? Gladiator and Finding Nemo

9. What is your favorite music? I try to listen to a wide variety of music, but right now have been listening to the Carolina Chocolate Drops, Mumford and Sons, The Band Perry, and the Wailin’ Jennys. A perpetual staple, however, is Jimmy Buffet – I would love his life.

10. What is your favorite food? Well, I’m Italian, so I love bread and cheese. Also breakfast burritos from the West Coast (haven’t found any in town that compares yet).

11. Where do you see yourself in five years? By (or in) the ocean.

12. In your eyes, the three things you value most are: A sense of adventure, a conservation ethic, and family/friends.