Some of the staff and consultants from past years are on this page.....

Claire Arbour

Claire Arbour
Deckhand
A graduate of Swarthmore College with a BA in Religion and a concentration in Environmental Studies and Education, Claire came to ERNESTINA in the 2001 season, with extensive water-based program experience.  She is a graduate of the Sea Education Association course in Nautical Science, Oceanography and Maritime studies, sailing on WESTWARD, and worked professionally as a deckhand on the CORWITH CRAMER for a supplemental 6-week program.  In addition, Claire worked as a deckhand and teacher onboard the JOLLY II ROVER.  During 2002, Claire helped with Ernestina’s up-rig, and start of season, before heading out to the west coast to work on Schooner ADVENTURESS as a deckhand and Program Coordinator.

Claire’s other professional experience includes a college Varsity Swim Team Coach Associate and Head Swim Coach for the college swim club, Waterfront Director for the Farm and Wilderness in Vermont, Marine Ecology Research Field Assistant on Swan’s Island, ME and Ocean Surf Lifeguard at Gateway National Park in Sandy Hook, NJ.  She has wilderness first aid and counseling training.

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Elisabete Baker
Deckhand

Elisabete came to ERNESTINA from an Americorp program in Boston where she was project coordinator for Servathon, and annual service event. She served as delegate to a Massachusetts State Summit, recreated Corps Voice, a support group for corps members and ran two environmental workshops. Elisabete also served as an education intern for the New England Aquarium where she served as floor manager for 10-20 volunteers, developed and managed the George’s Bank Activity Center, helped Harbor Explorations, a program that takes inner city youth on environmental trips in the Harbor Islands and designed and presented over 20 environmental curricula to schools and community centers throughout the Greater Boston area. In addition to all this she sailed trans-Atlantic on the HM Bark ENDEAVOUR from England to Florida.

Monika Bang-Cambell
Monika Bang-Campbell
Steward
Monika joined the ERNESTINA crew in 1999. Having previous shipboard cooking and sailing experience onboard CORWITH CRAMER, Monika made an easy transition into the ERNESTINA galley.  She makes excellent food, and keeps both the crew and participants amused with her keen sense of humor. In the past, Monika has worked as a teaching assistant and for a catering company, both experiences which help her to adapt to life onboard a sail training and educational vessel with ease.

Monika graduated from Falmouth Academy with honors, and from Wheaton College with a Major in Psychology and a minor in Sociology.  In May 2002, she received her Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work from Boston University.  Monika is an award-winning author, having written two of a three part children’s book series called Little Rat’s Adventures, including Little Rat Sets Sail.

Erika Boulware
Erika Boulware
Deckhand
Erika has spent much of her life around boats and water, as she comes from a family of schooner Captains. She has worked onboard the MYSTIC WHALER, SOUND WATERS and QUINNIPIACK all providing educational programs on the Long Island Sound, and joined the ERNESTINA crew for the full season 2001.

Other work experience Erika has had include a dietary aid for a nursing home, a stable hand for Allegra Horse and Carriage Farm in East Haddam, CT, and has served as a tutor to 7th grade students.  Erika is an accomplished vocalist and pianist.  Beginning in the winter of 2002, she continues her education at the College of the Atlantic in Bar Harbor, ME.

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Margaret Brumsted
Science Specialist

Margaret comes to ERNESTINA from Dartmouth High School where she is a science teacher during the school year. She brings incredible background in marine sciences and teaching to the ship with a Masters degree in Marine Environmental Education and a B.A. in Biology.  Her past on-the-water experiences include Sea Education Association as assistant scientist, the OCEANS program aboard the R/V SARAH ABBOTT, the Colorado Springs School program aboard the SPIRIT of MASSACHUSETTS, a Watershed Education Program for the Westport River Watershed Alliance, a high school Coral Reef Ecology program at the Bermuda Biological Station, NOAA Teacher at Sea and the NSF funded Undersea Research Program administered through Project Oceanology.

Jessica Bryant
Jessica Bryant
Deckhand
Jessica joined the crew of ERNESTINA in 2001 as an apprentice, after graduating in June from Natick High School, where she was part of the National Honors Society.  Her first experience onboard was during her 3 years participation at the Camp Favorite summer sailing program. Jessica’s other sailing experiences have included time onboard the SPIRIT OF MASSACHUSETTS while studying New England Coastal ecology, marine science and maritime history and literature. She also participated in the boating program at Charles River Community Boating. She returns to ERNESTINA in 2002, as part of the professional crew.

Jessica co-founded and was co-president of FACT- Fighting Against Cruel Treatment, a club whose participants were interested in being more involved in humanitarian issues.  She was a cross-country runner on her high school varsity teams and a flutist in her school and community bands.  Jessica leaves the ERNESTINA in August to return to the University of New Hampshire, where she will begin her sophomore year.

Frank Calascione
Frank Calascione
Deckhand
Frank joined the ERNESTINA as an apprentice, in the spring of 2002, for the up-rig.  At the time, he was in the process of completing a 10-week practicum as the final requirement of a Master of Science in Environmental Education from Lesley University.   From June through the end of the season, he has worked as a deckhand and relief engineer.

Frank grew up in West Central Florida.  He brings his skills as an outdoor leader, teacher and carpenter to ERNESTINA’s programs.  He has taught, studied, worked and traveled extensively in many areas of North and South America, Europe and Hawaii, including several trans-continental treks with the Audubon Expedition Institute as part of his two year Master’s program.  In addition to the MS degree, Frank also holds a BS in Business Management and Finance from Brooklyn College, as well as an Associate of Arts degree from Pasco-Hernando Community College.When not on the boat or teaching Frank spends time traveling, hiking, and working as a carpenter.

Brenda Candida
Brenda Candida
Steward
Brenda came to the rescue for ERNESTINA early in the 2001 season, as the ship’s crew did not have a full-time cook. With most of her past food handling experience being as a cook, wait staff and assistant manager at Red Lobster and Miami Subs, working onboard a ship, cooking for up to 36 people was a huge challenge, which Brenda seemed to master with ease. She made great meals always presenting with her personal flair and had focused energy.Brenda’s professional past has greatly varied.

In addition to her work in the food industry, Brenda has also held the positions of Sales and Billing Clerk, and Secretary for a New Bedford Manufacturing company, Office Manager for an Asphalt Company, and Night Auditor at a Hotel.

Scott Cann
Scott Cann
Chief Mate
Scott came to ERNESTINA as an AB in 1999, with a wealth of outdoor education experience.  In 2001, he led the crew as ERNESTINA’S Chief Mate.  Prior, Scott worked as Waterfront Director at Camp Nor’wester on Lopez Island, Washington for three summers, and led outdoor excursions for the Outdoor Center at Western Washington University.  Scott’s experience working on other educational sailing ships includes BOUNTY, Schooner ADVENTURESS, and the HARVEY GAMAGE.  He holds a 100-ton Inland Masters License, and AB Certificate.  Scott returns in the 2002 season, for one month, to fill an AB position at the start of the season, before heading put to the West Coast as Chief Mate on the ADVENTURESS.

Scott has special expertise in emergency response including participation with the Volcano Rescue Team at Mount Saint Helens National Monument in Oregon. He received as B.S. degree from Western Washington University, with a focus in environmental education.

Missy DeValles
Missy DeValles
Engineer/Deckhand
Missy returned to ERNESTINA in 2002, while on summer leave from her studies at the Massachusetts Maritime Academy.  She had volunteered onboard in both 1998 and 1999, after graduating from high-school and realizing that on a ship and on the water is where she felt most at home.  She returns to join the professional crew, and use the skills she has learned while studying marine engineering at the academy.

Missy is a native to South Eastern Massachusetts, growing up in Fairhaven.  After graduating from Fairhaven High School, Missy flew to Australia, to travel some and to study at the University of New England in Armidale.  It was upon her return that she decided on MMA.

Missy’s other work experience includes being a farm hand in Australia, working with the town Recreation Department as a coach and referee of youth sporting events, as a waitress, and as a greenhouse employee.  She has done quite a bit of community service activities, and is an award winning athlete, playing on soccer, basketball, and softball teams.  As well, she has an orange belt in karate.  She leaves ERNESTINA to return to complete her senior year of school.

Jim Foley
Jim Foley
AB
Jim joined the ERNESTINA in September of 2002, after a busy summer working with Sea Education Association onboard the CORWITH CRAMER as an assistant scientist.  He has spent over 2 years working in the maritime industry, and currently holds a USCG Inland Masters License of 100 tons.

Jim received his Bachelor’s Degree in Geology from Miami University Ohio in 1999, and has a solid background in chemistry, zoology and field ecology.  As part of his coursework, he traveled to Africa while attending a seminar in the Biodiversity and Geology of Kenya. Jim enjoys traveling, backpacking, playing the guitar, photography, and teaching the crew how to speak Swedish.   He also likes Swedish fish.

Seth Goodwin
Seth Goodwin
Mate

Seth came to ERNESTINA from the Schooner LETTIE G. HOWARD at South Street Seaport Museum in New York where he served as bosun and watch leader for two seasons.

He has an interesting background with a degree from Hunter College in Chinese Language and Literature and a minor in Philosophy. He has studied at Beijing Teacher’s College where his emphasis was on Mandarin Chinese and traditional Chinese calligraphy. He studied fine art and ancient and modern philosophy at SUNY New Paltz. Previously, he worked as chief of research and production manager for music videos and commercials for broadcast in Japan. He holds a Mates license for Auxiliary Sail Vessels.

Tom Goux
Tom Goux
Public Program Director
Tom has been staff with ERNESTINA since 1994. His primary responsibilities include community outreach and special events coordination, working closely with the many community groups and school districts to take advantage of ERNESTINA’s offerings.  As one of the most talented interpreters of New England Maritime Folklore and Traditional Music of the Sea, Tom has been a guest lecturer at the Sea Education Association, Mystic Seaport Museum, the Kendall Whaling Museum and other maritime, musical and historical institutions across the country. 

Tom holds a degree in Music from Southern Illinois University. He makes his home in Falmouth on Cape Cod, where he served in the public schools as teacher, conductor and head of the music faculty for 20 years. He directs the Cape Cod Mostly Men’s Chorus, an 85-voice civic choir; and developed and now directs the New Bedford Harbor Sea Chantey Chorus made up of Greater New Bedford community members. For ten years prior to taking his post as program director, Tom was an active Schooner ERNESTINA volunteer.

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Margaret Graustein
AB

Meg has great background in outdoor education as well as special needs and elementary school programs. She recently came from Sea Education Association spent three months at sea in the North Atlantic. She has led interactive workshops for the Eli Whitney Museum in Hamden, CT, led adventure training programs for the Adam Kreiger Challenge Course in New Haven, CT and served as rock climbing instructor at Farm and Wilderness Camps in Vermont.

MaryHelen Gunn
MaryHelen Gunn
Onboard Program Coordinator
The 2002 season brings MaryHelen from Volunteer to Program Coordinator onboard the Schooner ERNESTINA.  Having served for four years as Administrator and Program Director for the Schooner ADVENTURE in Gloucester, with experience in expansion of community support and involvement in the schooner’s restoration, and having directed a multi-generational community learning project involving local high school students, it was thought that this transition, from one old Gloucester fishing schooner to the next, would be a natural fit. 

MaryHelen has a variety of other work experiences including: as an educator with Goodale (now Russell) Orchards, the Massachusetts Audubon Society, and YMCA.  And, she has also worked in social and life-skills programs for vision-impaired children, as a manager of a bed and breakfast, and served as an apprentice and garden manager on two organic farms in New England.

MaryHelen volunteered her time with Save the Bay in Rhode Island helping them align their educational programs with the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks.  And most recently, she worked as Associate Director of Marketing and Communications for From the Top, a National Public Radio show featuring talented young classical musicians.

MaryHelen earned her BA from Northwestern, in cultural studies and environmental policy/resource management sciences. She also earned a certificate in Management of Community Organizations from the Urban Environmental Policy department at Tufts University.  She is a lifelong singer, and enjoys harmonizing and ensemble singing.

Gus
Most needy crew member

“Gus? Oh yeah.  I think I tripped over him on the way to my car” R. Hancock

“Little. Blue. Different. Gus.” L. Maloney

“Sure I’ll fix Gus. Just bring me more Canadian Beer.” F. Crawford

“Gus is a great car.  It’s right there in black and white.  You do the numbers” K.Krause

“What he lacks in size, he makes up with his blueness” E. Varney

“They said they couldn’t get one for a Metro, but got one for a Yugo, and think it should be the same thing.”  Austin Powers, Captain of Sloop Providence

“Gus Please!” T.Coli

“If there is something wrong with Gus, I’d find out who touched it last, and what they did wrong.” S. Swift

“Sure there have been problems with Gus.  But I swear I had nothing to do with it.” S. Morse

“Gus got me and my bags to the airport in two trips or less.” K. Sharpless

“Look, we put Gus back together with half as many bolts.  Talk about efficiency!” F. Calascione

“Gus will be back on the road next week!!” G. Swanzey

“ Keep your hands off my car!” E Sachs

Rob Hancock
Rob Hancock
AB
During his brief but remarkable sailing career with ERNESTINA, Rob’s performances have been described by critics as “electrifyingly tall” and “occasionally bearded”.  Assuming the role of AB Deckhand in the 2002 edition of the block buster “Schooner Ernestina”, you are sure to cry and laugh as a result of Rob’s unforgettable days aboard.

Rob’s sailing career began aboard the SSV WESTWARD in Sea Education Association’s Fall 1995 student production “SEA Semester Class 159”, where he broke onto the scene with a showing, depicted as “uncannily sloth-like” by many of the fellow crew members.  This rave review left Rob with a hunger for sailing, which he appeased by playing the part of deckhand and Assistant Scientist aboard the CORWITH CRAMER and WESTWARD.  He continued to show his diversity by acting as volunteer on Schooner AMISTAD, where crewmembers referred to him as “always gone by the time chores started”.

Rob was born and raised in Miami, Fl and studied formally at Brown University where classmates said he was “asleep and absent from final exams”.  Miraculously, he received a BA in Geology in 2000, fulfilling the ‘rock’ requirement of the ‘rocks and jocks’ mantra, while also being a 4-year member of the nationally recognized crew team

While not onboard the ERNESTINA, Rob can be found sleeping on other people’s couches and occasionally serving as public address announcer for the Boston Breakers (women’s professional) Soccer Club.  In his early season reviews aboard, Rob has been described as “not funny” and “in the way”.  Stay tuned; it’s bound to be a sail to remember if Rob’s on-board.

Alan Lee Hankin
Alan Lee Hankin, Ph.D.
Project Director
Alan brings a wealth of knowledge and energy to several projects, including the development of the Expedition to the Water Planet curriculum guides and incorporation of MA Curriculum Frameworks and Benchmarks on the Way the Environmental Literacy into ERNESTINA programs.

Alan is Special Assistant to the President at Hampshire College, on the faculty at Emerson College and Principle Investigator for Department of Education (DOE) and Executive Office of Environmental Affairs (EOEA) on program design for integrating global environmental change, environmental education and science education statewide.

Alan was the principle architect of the Massachusetts Environmental Education Plan (MEEP). In addition, he was the Associate Director for Programs and Exhibits at the New England Aquarium, and Founding Director at the Lloyd Center for Environmental Studies in South Dartmouth.

Jonathan Hart
Jonathan Hart
Deckhand
Jonathan joined the ERNESTINA in the Fall of 2001. He is a skilled and experienced outdoorsman, who has worked professionally for over twenty years in commercial/advertising photography for corporations and businesses. Jonathan has recently worked with Thompson Island Outward Bound Educational Center and Hurricane Island Outward Bound as a challenge course facilitator. He comes to ERNESTINA to continue to gain experience in a career focused on the outdoor educational field. He is a licensed pilot with significant back country experience. And, he is a certified Wilderness First Responder.

Jonathan attended the Rochester Institute of Technology, focusing on Professional Commercial/Advertising Photography. He participated in two Outward Bound programs, one for 14-days backpacking and dog sledding in Maine, and the other for 8-days sea-kayaking in Maine. Also he attended a seminar in facilitative leadership with the Interaction Institute for Social Change.

Carl Herzog
Carl Herzog
Relief Mate
Carl has been involved with the Ernestina since 1997, serving as both a Mate and Chief Mate. Carl adds depth to ERNESTINA’s program with his extensive knowledge of environmental issues, ecology and celestial navigation. Holding a 200 ton Near-Coastal Mates and 100 ton Inland Masters license, Carl has worked on a variety of sail training and educational vessels including BOUNTY, CORWITH CRAMER, and OCEAN STAR.

When not sailing, Carl is the Editor of the Reed’s Nautical Almanac. He is also a contributor for several sailing publications. In the past, Carl has worked as staff writer for Boca Raton News, Sun Sentinel Publishing Company, and Gulf Atlantic Communications, after studying journalism and business administration at University of Florida.

Samantha Heyman
Samantha Heyman
Mate
Samantha came to ERNESTINA with extensive experience as mate, bosun and watch officer on PRIDE OF BALTIMORE II, SLOOP CLEARWATER, SCHOONER SHENANDOAH, ROSEWAY, VOYAGER and BARKENTINE GAZELA.

She holds a 100 ton near coastal masters license, a BA degree in Government with minors in Economics and French from Lehigh University and spent a semester abroad in France. She is fluent in French. Today she sails as captain aboard CLEARWATER in the Hudson Valley.

Jonathan Kabak
Jonathan Kabak
Mate

Jonathan came to ERNESTINA with mate and relief captain experience on LIBERTY, LIBERTY CLIPPER, HARVEY GAMAGE, MYSTIC WHALER, CLEARWATER and PIONEER. He is currently pursuing a degree in History and a Teachers Certification in Secondary Education from Franklin Pierce College. He has background in vocal music and theater and music production.

Katie Krause
Katie Krause
Deckhand
Katie joined the crew of the ERNESTINA as a deckhand for the first half of the 2002 season.  Originally from upstate New York, Katie fell in love with the southern coast of Massachusetts having spent most of her summers in, on and around the waters of Westport, MA.   After graduating, from McGill University in 2000 with a BS from the School of Environment, Katie gravitated back towards Southern New England.

Katie has worked for several environmental organizations in the region, in both research and education.  These include the Westport River Watershed Alliance and the Lloyd Center for environmental Studies.  Her enthusiasm for environmental education has led her to rewarding positions as an educator and naturalist for the Environmental Schools based out of Ocean Park, ME as well as the Audubon Society of RI’s, new education center in Bristol, RI.

She leaves ERNESTINA to work towards her Masters of Science in Environmental Policy at Bard College on the Hudson River.

Rosie Lund
Rebecca Lund
Deckhand
‘Rosie’ was onboard ERNESTINA for about two months during the 2001 season. She came from the schooner ADVENTURESS, where she had been involved as a Deckhand and Educator for about seven years.

Rosie has completed two years towards her degree at University of Arizona in Tucson, studying Fine Arts (dance) and Ecology. In addition to her time working on ADVENTURESS, Rosie has worked as a gymnastics instructor and coach, a deckhand on the Schooner ALCYONE, and receptionist.

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Caleb McClennen
Mate

After receiving a degree from Middlebury College in Environmental Studies and Geography and spending a semester at sea aboard Schooner WESTWARD with the Sea Education Association, Caleb went on to serve aboard the WESTWARD and CORWITH CRAMER as scientist and program director for Sail Caribbean. He holds a 100 ton USCG Inland Masters License and is proficient in Spanish. Caleb is our resident computer specialist with significant background with GIS and related software.

Mary Anne McQuillan
Mary Anne McQuillan
Relief Educator
Mary Anne comes to the ship during the summer months when off from her regular duties as 9th grade high school teacher in Westport, MA where she also serves as Academy Coordinator. She has an M.Ed. from Boston University and a B.S. cum laude from UMASS Dartmouth.
Crista Mellican
Crista Mellican
Onboard Program Coordinator
Crista came to ERNESTINA in 1999, first leading a group of participants from the New England Aquarium summer program, and then joining the professional crew later that fall as a deckhand. She accepted the position of Program Coordinator in 2000, bringing her wealth of experience, solid organizational skills and enthusiasm to ERNESTINA’s programs.

With her extensive experience as an educator, taking on the role of onboard program coordinator has been natural.  Prior to working with ERNESTINA, Crista worked as an advanced instructor for the New England Aquarium for the Summer Discoveries Program, science instructor at Catalina Island Marine Institute, and marine science instructor at Newfound Harbor Marine Institute, research assistant at Lizard Island Research Station, and educational intern at Lloyd Center for Environmental Studies.  In addition, she sailed from the Indian Ocean to the Canadian Maritimes onboard the Bark PICTON CASTLE, as a team member of the WinStar for Education associated interactive website project.

Crista received her BS from UMASS Dartmouth in General and Marine Biology.

The summer of 2002, Crista began the season with great energy, taking a leadership position in the training of this year’s crew, and new program coordinator.  Unfortunately for ERNESTINA, Crista also decided that this spring would be her last onboard for now, and she leaves her position to experience other adventures, including working as a Marine Fisheries observer on New Bedford Fishing Vessels.

Leda Mareth
Leda Mareth
Deckhand
It was her amazing passion for environmental studies that brought Leda to the ERNESTINA for two months of the 2002 season.  As the Coordinator of the Marine Science Exploration Program for Schooner, Inc and Marine Educator onboard both QUINNIPIAK and RV OCEANIC, she has lead and taught many marine based programs for students of all ages.  Working as a deckhand and educator for ERNESTINA was a very smooth transition. 

Leda has taught for a variety of other environmental education organizations, including: Hulbert Outdoor Center in VT, Audubon Youth Camp in ME, the Maritime Aquarium in CT, and at the Audubon Coastal Society and Center in CT.  She has worked in the classroom at the Compass School in VT, and as a teaching assistant with Antioch NE’s Graduate School and Boston University’s Department of Biology.  Leda also has a wealth of environmental research experience, with position as Weather Observer Intern, Biotechnical Lab Assistant, Shellfish Research Intern and Turtle Researcher Volunteer.

When not busy teaching other students, Leda can be found hiking, canoeing, biking or skiing, sewing knitting or crocheting.  And, she is an extensive traveler both in the United States and abroad.

Doug Miller
Doug Miller
Deckhand

Doug came to ERNESTINA from the heartland of Indiana as deckhand coming on for his fourth year in between stints at college at UMASS Amherst in 2000 where he pursues his love of short story writing and poetry as well as a major in Social Thought and Political Economy. Doug also is working on ERNESTINA’s merchandizing, especially the graphic design for note cards, post cards and fabric. Yes, that is his twin brother but who is who?

Andrea Parrish
Andrea Parrish
Education Director

Andrea came to ERNESTINA with extensive background in organizational effectiveness, counseling and leadership, has an undergraduate degree from University of Minnesota in Human Services and Juvenile Corrections and a graduate degree from City University/Leadership Institute of Seattle in Applied Behavioral Sciences. Her past experiences include management of school based mental health services, a community networks program, and therapeutic adventure services. She developed and managed a wooden boat program for inner city youth with involvement in the criminal justice and mental health systems in Seattle, WA. Andrea is an active member of the Association of Experiential Education. (AEE)

Inette Rex
Inette Rex
Onboard Program Coordinator & Relief Steward
Inette joined the Schooner Ernestina in 2000, as an Onboard Program Coordinator.  Originally from the Southeastern Massachusetts area, she has an educational background at some of the local educational institutions, including Friends Academy, Moses Brown School and Bristol County Community College, the latter of which she has some Environmental and Marine Science coursework.  Inette holds a degree in Art History and Native American Studies from Gettysburg College.

In 2002, Inette has taken a new position with the Schooner AURORA, she was generous with her time, and willing to pitch in during the season start-up as a relief steward, cooking scrumptious meals for all the crew.

Inette has had an extensive work history, including service as an EMT, a flight instructor and a charter pilot. She has worked as a zookeeper, farm manager, substitute teacher and educator sailing onboard the Schooner ADVENTURESS.

Tara Roesberg
Tara Roesberg
Relief Steward and Deckhand

Tara came to ERNESTINA as relief cook and deckhand from experiences with the CARAVAN STAGE BARGE and Schooner AJ MEERWALD, official vessel of New Jersey. She served as assistant to the director of research at The Wetlands Institute, publicist for the Stockton Biological Society and editor-in-chief for "The Platypus" an environmental newsletter. Her college background led to a BS in Biology from Richard Stockton College of New Jersey.

Chelsea Rubin
Chelsea Ruben
Deckhand

Chelsea came to ERNESTINA with a BS degree in environmental science focusing on marine biology from Evergreen State College, an internship at Centro Ecologico Akumal in Mexico and a SEA Semester with the Sea Education Association on CORWITH CRAMER. She has spent a work-study summer at Shoals Marine Lab and several years volunteering for the Bay Area Discovery Museum at Ft. Baker, CA.

Erica Sachs
Erica Sachs
Chief Mate
Erica joined the ERNESTINA crew in 1999 as Mate.  For the 2002 season, she enthusiastically stepped naturally into the leadership role of Chief Mate.

Erica holds a 100 ton Inland Masters and Near Coastal Mates license and has had quite a lot of experience teaching and sailing on traditionally rigged ships.  Previously, she worked onboard the schooners LETTIE G. HOWARD, PIONEER, and YOUNG AMERICA, as well as the Tall Ship ROSE and TOLE MOUR.  Additionally, she worked as a volunteer teacher at the San Felipe Village Primary School, in Belize, Central America.  In the winter of 1999, Erica worked as a ranch hand, at a cattle ranch in which at times lead Elderhostel excursions.

Erica’s educational background includes a BA in Anthropology from Rice University, and studies at Boston University Archaeological Field School. While working towards her degree, Erica participated in Sea Education Association Sea Semester Program, sailing onboard the CORWITH CRAMER.  She is proficient in French and Spanish and familiar with Italian and German.  Erica leaves her full-time role as chief mate on ERNESTINA to continue her education, attending the New England Institute of Technology, studying Marine Engineering.

Greg See
Greg See
Deckhand
Greg came highly recommended to the ERNESTINA in the 2001 season. A student at Wesleyan University, he is working towards his degree. Part of his studies has included the Sea Education Association course in Nautical Science, Oceanography and maritime studies, 6 weeks of which he spent sailing onboard the CORWITH CRAMER.

Greg has worked as a camp assistant counselor and a trip counselor. He has organized and led 3-5 day trips hiking, camping and canoeing for middle and high school aged participants. He is also a great musician, spending a number of hours playing his guitar onboard during down-time.

Neal Shluker
Neal Shluker
Deckhand

Neal came to ERNESTINA as deckhand with a BA in Psycho-Biology from UC Santa Cruz. He has sailed as deckhand and assistant cook for PILGRIM OF NEWPORT, TALOFA and HAWAIIAN CHIEFTAIN, has Outdoor Emergency Care training, NAUI Advanced Diving Certification and has traveled extensively through Oceania, South East Asia, Mauritius, South Africa and Western Europe.

Gordon Sims

Gordon Sims Aloft

Gordon Sims
Relief Mate
Gordon came to the ERNESTINA from our sister, ADVENTURESS, across the country in the Pacific Northwest. Gordon’s experience is substantial. He served as master on the LADY WASHINGTON in Grays Harbor, Aberdeen, WA, master on the Schooner ADVENTURESS and plied the inland waters of Puget Sound as a tugboat master. Gordon has worked with Lug Rig Longboats for the Pacific Crest Outward Bound School in Anacortes, WA and the Wooden Boat Foundation in Port Townsend, WA. He has incredible versatility and depth for experiential education programs. Gordon holds a BS Degree in Botany from Duke University.

Today Gordon sails as captain aboard the Schooner ADVENTURESS but makes occasional visits back to the east coast.

Mike Stewart
Michael Stewart
AB Sail
Mike came aboard the ERNESTINA in 2000, after majoring in Geology and graduating with honors from Carleton College. There he received Independent Research Fellowship and a distinction award for his senior thesis. While working towards his degree, he participated in the Sea Education Association course in Nautical Science, Oceanography and maritime studies, and sailed upon the CORWITH CRAMER.

Mike has considerable experience as an educator, as he served as teaching assistant, lab assistant, visiting teacher, and has taught classes at an elementary school. He worked professionally as a head counselor and camp director. In addition, Mike has been a professional field assistant to an MIT doctoral student and the Yunnan Geologic Institute, while traveling the Yunnan Province of China, and to a professor of the University of Iowa, while climbing the Southern Canadian Rockies.

Most recently, Mike worked onboard the Hudson River Sloop CLEARWATER, as engineer and 2nd Mate. He is a 6-time marathon finisher, conversant in Spanish, and worked as a kilt and sporran maker for an import company in Boston.

Stubbs Potgutski
Stubby Potgutski
Franco’s Alter Ego?
Who is Stubbs anyway?  We didn’t hire him, didn’t even get to meet him face to face.  But he is most definitely well known to the crew, and like “grape little buddy”, seems to have become part of it.  Interestingly, Stubbs joined the ERNESTINA at the start of the spring up-rig, at the same time as Frank Calascione. 

What we know is that Stubbs has had no concussions.  He drove a golf cart around for a year after the loss of his driver’s license.  In fact, he would often frequent Checker’s, his favorite restaurant, drive-thru this way. 

Stubbs grew up in the “House of Hunger”, where there was no food in the refrigerator, and motorcycles were built in the living room.  He kept a house-jack in his bedroom to help him lift up his bed.  Though best known as Stubbs, a name he picked up when he was 8 years old, he was also referred to as Corky Thatcher or Rusty Waters. And when the crew are looking for the answers to complete a project, they find themselves asking “What would Stubbs do?”

Amanda Treyz
Amanda Treyz
Deckhand
Amanda met up with the ERNESTINA at the Gloucester Schooner race in September 2001, and joined soon after to complete the season with the crew. She has significant shipboard experience, working as an educator and deckhand onboard the LETTIE G.HOWARD, and volunteer deckhand on CLEARWATER. She also worked as a pump-out boat operator.

Amanda was an intern at the South Street Seaport Museum, and research assistant with the Williams-Mystic program. She received her BA degree from Brown University, studying American Civilization. While obtaining her degree, she participated in the Williams-Mystic intensive study semester, of which 10 days were spent sailing offshore. She is an award winning photographer, and worked as a resident photographer for the Williamstown Theater Festival, publishing her work in the New York Times and the Boston Globe.

Eric Varney
Eric Varney
Deckhand
Eric joined ERNESTINA in June of 2002.  He is a graduate of Dickinson College, with a BS in Environmental Science and a concentration in Marine Science.  During his undergraduate studies, Eric attended Sea Education Association’s semester program in Nautical Science, Oceanography and Maritime Studies, where he sailed onboard WESTWARD.  Eric also spent a semester studying Marine Science at the University of Queensland in Brisbane, Australia.

When Eric is not sailing with ERNESTINA, he can usually be found onboard his lobster boat, HOBO, in Casco Bay, Maine.

Doralee Zeneberg
Doralee Zeneberg
Steward
Doralee signed on to cook for the ERNESTINA in July 2001. She has had a significant amount of shipboard cooking, having worked on MALABAR, MANITOU, ROSEWAY, WESTWARD, and the YOUNG AMERICA and for the Down-East Windjammer Cruise Line. Doralee also has on-shore cooking experience working at a number of hotels including the Grand Traverse Resort and the Bowers Harbor Inn, both of which are fine dining restaurants in the Travers City, MI area.

Doralee holds a BS degree in Education from Central Michigan University. And she has two years of culinary arts education from NMC.


Staff Biographies | The Schooner Ernestina Commission | Metrics

 

Interns and Apprentices

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Calvin Arterberry
Intern
Calvin returned to the ERNESTINA in 2001 for his third consecutive summer, to work intern in the office. The internship is funded through a grant from the Island Foundation. Previously, he has helped with everything from educational programs to shaving our newly acquired timber to remove the bark for ultimate construction of bowsprit and gaffs. In the 2001 summer, Calvin worked on transcribing the writings Edward Stafford, the grandson of Admiral Peary, from his 1932 journal of the voyage of the EFFIE M. MORRISSEY from New York to Newfoundland, NS.

Calvin is a student at the New Bedford High School. And, is a member of the school’s football team. Prior to working for ERNESTINA, Calvin had experience sailing, in junior life-guard training, house painting and rowing.

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Peter Berger
Apprentice
Peter sailed as our Austrian intern aboard ERNESTINA and works along side his aunt, Traudi, for the summer.  This is Peter's first summer following in his brother's footsteps.
Frank Crawford
Frank Crawford
Apprentice
After many attempts to get to New Bedford, Frank finally got onboard the ERNESTINA to be the first of the 2002 season’s apprentices.  With a great deal of small sail boat experience, both as a sailor and instructor, he enthusiastically signed on to participate “in one of the great life adventures” of learning the role of a seaman on a tall-ship, before heading on to start his professional working career.

Frank is a native of Calgary, Alberta.  He attended Western Canada High School, and has recently graduated from University of Calgary with a degree in Civil Engineering.  He has worked professionally as a transportation consultant doing studies on safety and traffic calming projects, as a project coordinator for Ellis-Don Construction Company, and as a sailing instructor for the Alberta Sailing Association.  Frank has traveled throughout North America, Australia and the South Pacific.  In addition to sailing, Frank enjoys climbing and scuba diving.

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Edison DaCosta and Jonathan DaCosta
Interns
Edison and Jonathan are brothers who are at New Bedford High School and came to help ERNESTINA for several summers. Whether aboard from time to time or ashore, we can count on them to be there and do a great job! They help with programs as well as the maintenance of the ship. Edison is back for his third year. These internships are funded thanks to a grant from the Island Foundation.
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Annie Gjelsvik
Apprentice
Annie is a doctoral student at Brown University studying epidemiology. She also received her undergraduate and graduate degrees at Brown University. She is also a certified EMT and coordinates the volunteer EMT services at Brown. This is her first sailing experience.
LeeAnne Gordon
LeeAnne Gordon
Apprentice
LeeAnne joins the ERNESTINA crew to help finish-up the end of the season, and work on down-rigging the ship.  She comes directly from working onboard the US BRIG NIAGRA.  There she worked both as an OS, Assistant Cook, and Volunteer Deckhand for the past two summers.

LeeAnne graduated from Auburn University with a BA in English.  Her other work experience includes Production Assistant for an educational television program, for a food company and for a bakery.

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Julia Hankin
Apprentice
Julia returned to the ERNESTINA for three weeks during the summer of 2001. Previously, she had participated as a guest of her father, Alan, on a number of the Sea Connection programs, and wanted to participate as part of the crew in a longer term experience.

Currently, Julia is a Junior at Dartmouth High School. She participates in a number of clubs, including the chorus, color guard, and environmental to name a few.

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Sarah Maddocks
Apprentice
Sarah is completing her Associates Degree in Education at Bristol Community College. She worked closely with the junior high students who were constructing the scale models of Schooner Ernestina and the Bark Wanderer. Sarah is also an active volunteer for Habitats for Humanity.
Will Mayo
Will Mayo
Apprentice
Will returned to the ERNESTINA in the 2002 season as an apprentice.  He had spent a week onboard the ship in 2001 as a student with the St. Margaret McTernan School in CT, and enjoyed his experience so much, he longed to continue it for an extended period of time.  Joining the crew, in the dual position that the apprentice takes on, both as student and teacher, Will was able to further his seamanship skills, and then turn around and teach them to students that came onboard with their schools, thus teaching him skills to be an educator.

Will has had experience in carpentry and boat engine repair.  He is quite knowledgeable about computers, and has participated on both his school’s swimming and sailing team for two years.  Will returns to St. Margaret's to complete his junior year.

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Natalie and Nathan Mendes
Interns
Natalie and Nathan, twin brother and sister, joined the ERNESTINA staff as part of the internship program, which is sponsored by the Island Foundation. They come to the ERNESTINA, following in the foot steps of their great grandfather Henrique Mendes, the owner of the ship, who brought her to Cape Verde. Natalie worked on transcribing the writings Edward Stafford, the grandson of Admiral Peary, from his 1932 journal of the voyage of the EFFIE M. MORRISSEY from New York to Newfoundland, NS. Nathan helped to organize the Ernestina Archive room to make it a more usable space.

Both Natalie and Nathan attend the New England Baptist Academy, working towards graduating with their high school diplomas in 2002.

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Gabe Miranda
Intern
Gabe Miranda began his sea voyages at the age of ten working with his father, a captain on Eastern Fisheries commercial scallop vessels. Gabe came to Ernestina through the New Bedford Fisherman’s Family Assistance Center to work with the junior high school students. Gabe also worked with Capt. Willi Bank in the re-rigging of the ship this spring.
Katina Pilavakis
Katina Pilavakis
Apprentice
Katina joined the ERNESTINA crew for three weeks of the 2001 season. As a student of the Small Vessel Operations Program at the Maine Maritime Academy, Katina was looking for a co-operative experience in which she could participate in boat handling, navigation and the maintenance of a sailing vessel. Her ultimate goal is to single-handedly sail from the United States to Greece, after she completes her program.

Katina has substantial experience as an educator. She has permanent teaching certificates in both New York and New Jersey. She taught elementary education from 1962-1986, before retiring to continue her 15 year passion as a sailor. Katina has sailed many miles, on the waters from Rochester, New York to Cumana, Venezuela.

Gil Pires
Gil Pires
Intern
Gil joined the ERNESTINA staff during the summer of 2001, as part of the internship program, which is sponsored by the Island Foundation.  Fluent in Kriolu, Gil’s project was to translate a Schooner Ernestina Deck Log book from the 1954-55 transatlantic voyages.  Part of the archive, this logbook is a huge representation of the ERNESTINA history.  After translating, Gil put the details of the navigation to paper, by charting the three voyages on one chart, to be displayed in the Schooner Ernestina Museum. 

In 2002, Gil returned to work on a Genealogy project.  He spent many an hour researching, interviewing and documenting a number of the families who have been involved with The Schooner Ernestina ex. Effie M. Morrissey.  In this season, Gil also sailed aboard the ERNESTINA as part of the crew.  

As a student at Boston University, Gil is studying International Relations. He has served as senior office assistant for the BU Office of Career Services, auditor for RGIS, and page for the New Bedford Public Library. His leadership activities include Secretary for the Cape Verdean Student Association and President of the National Honor Society at New Bedford High School. He was one of two Massachusetts Senate Youth representatives for the United States Youth Program to Washington, DC in 1999. In addition to being fluent in Kriolu, Gil also speaks French and has a working knowledge of Portuguese.  Gil leaves the ERNESTINA to study and travel in England, as part of the Boston University study abroad program.

Giovanni Poles
Giovanni Poles
Apprentice
Giovanni joined ERNESTINA early in the 2001 season for 6 weeks. Part of his academic requirements, as a senior at the Fenway High School in Boston, he was to find a position working in a field in which he aspired to work professionally.

Giovanni has had previous sailing and teaching experience, having worked at the Courageous Sailing Center in Charlestown, MA as Senior Sailing and Pre Head Instructor. Having had time onboard small crafts, and on some yachts while doing deliveries, Giovanni was interested in gaining experience on larger sail training and educational vessels. He hoped to gain hours to work towards his captain’s license.

Giovanni has participated in on his school varsity swim team. He snowboards and has had experience as a snowboard instructor. He also is part of the Massachusetts Pre-Engineering Program, and the computer club.

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Randy Post-Maher
Apprentice
Randy began as a volunteer during the re-rigging of the ship in March and April 2000 as a Dartmouth home-school high school student and came aboard for 4 weeks in May 2000. She participated in numerous day sails and worked with the crew to prepare the ship for the sailing season.
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Jessica Pulver
Apprentice
Jessica is at Swarthmore College. She recently completed an underway program on the Harvey Gamage with Williams College studying the ecology,history, literature and policy of the sea. Jessica sailed onboard Ernestina in June.
Patricia Rodrigues
Patricia Rodrigues
Intern
Patricia recently graduated from New York University with a B.A. in History. She has studied at NYU in Paris, France and has related experiences researching archival materials in Praia, Cape Verde and organizing a conference in Ethiopia. She is fluent in Cape Verdean, Portuguese and some French and Spanish. Patricia came to ERNESTINA as a graduate intern helping us build an interactive interpretive display focusing on the Cape Verdean packet trade for our 89 North Water Street facility. This project is funded through a grant from the Island Foundation.
Kendra Santos
Kendra Santos
Intern
Kendra joined the ERNESTINA staff as an intern in the summer of 2002.  She enthusiastically worked on the genealogy project, spending many hours researching, interviewing and documenting many of the families who have been involved with the Schooner Ernestina ex. Effie M. Morrissey.

Kendra is a native of Dartmouth, MA. She graduated from Dartmouth High School, and in 2002-2003 is working to complete her junior year at Temple University, studying Anthropology.  Her prior work experience includes positions as Camp Counselor, Residential Aid, and Sales Representative.

Kendra has also been involved with organizations such as the Multi-Cultural Affairs, Hip-Hop Society, Organization of African Students, Temple Student Government Cabinet Member and Student Representative in General Assemble.

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Rebeca Torres
Intern
Rebeca was in the History Museum Studies Program at Cooperstown Graduate Program and came to Schooner ERNESTINA as graduate intern thanks to a grant from the Island Foundation. ERNESTINA and the New Bedford Historical Society worked jointly on a Cape Verdean Immigration Internship for ten weeks in summer 2000 to look at immigration patterns and factors of Cape Verdean residence in Greater New Bedford drawing from the censuses of the late 19th and early 20th century.
Kaitlyn Tuite
Kaitlyn Tuite
Apprentice
Kaitlyn joined the ERNESTINA crew in September 2001. She came onboard after completing an apprentice program as an Education Assistant onboard the CLEARWATER.

Kaitlyn graduated in June 2000 from Colby-Sawyer College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Education. At that time, she also received her teaching certificate. In addition to her 3 months onboard CLEARWATER as an educator, Kaitlyn completed an internship teaching at the Eastman Elementary school. She was also a special needs counselor at Camp Lyndon. Kaitlyn leaves the ERNESTINA to complete her commitment with the Peace Corps, traveling to Africa to fulfill a 21 month volunteer position.

Jeremiah Woolley
Jeremiah Woolley
Intern
Jeremiah has been a long-time ERNESTINA volunteer, as a part of the Boy Scout Troop 52 from Fairhaven, MA.  Over the past 4 years, Jeremiah was one the consistent members of the troop who comes every spring and fall to help the crew rig and de-rig the ship. The summer of 2001, Jeremiah joined the staff and crew as part of the intern program, sponsored by the Island Foundation.  He spent 2 weeks working in the office on a variety of projects, including drawing the plans for a knot board he hopes to build. After, he joined the ship for 4 weeks, as part of the crew, an educator and deckhand.  Once finished, Jeremiah was invited to continue in the intern program, to assist the staff in teaching the after-school boat-building program.

Jeremiah graduated from Bristol Agricultural High School in Dighton, MA.  He is currently enrolled at University of Massachusetts Stockbridge School of Agriculture.  In addition to his schooling, Jeremiah worked hard to reach the level of Eagle Scout. 


Staff Biographies | The Schooner Ernestina Commission | Metrics

 


©1997-2004 Schooner Ernestina
89 North Water Street, P.O. Box 2010, New Bedford, MA 02741-2010
phone 508.992.4900
fax 508.984.7719
www.ernestina.org