The Boothbay Sea and Science Center (BSSC) is proud to announce the appointment of Mark Rees to its board of directors. A distinguished attorney based in Bethesda, Maryland, Rees brings decades of legal expertise and a lifelong passion for maritime education to the organization. 

Rees holds a bachelor of the arts degree (BA) in history and a minor in French from Bates College, a juris doctorate (JD) from Northeastern University School of Law, and a master of laws (LLM) from Columbia University School of Law. His extensive background includes specialized training in public international law at the Hague Academy of International Law.

"I find BSSC’s mission unique and compelling," said Rees. "The way the Center ties sailing with hands-on marine science learning is brilliant. Extending this educational component throughout the academic year makes its mission downright compelling." 

Rees first connected with BSSC through the Maine State Bar Association. His interest in the Center is rooted in a personal history of sailing gaff-rigged Baybirds on Cape Cod and a burgeoning interest in the sustainability and applications of seaweed aquaculture. 

"We are thrilled to welcome Mark to our leadership team," said Pauline Dion, executive director of BSSC. "His legal experience in both the private and public sectors, combined with his dedication to environmental non-profits, will be an invaluable asset as we continue to grow our programs and reach more students."  

Rees, who plans to eventually relocate to Maine, has already been an active participant in the BSSC community, visiting the Center during its summer sessions. He looks forward to contributing his energy to fostering BSSC’s mission of providing affordable and experiential maritime education to Maine's youth.