Every day, we celebrate and honor the hard work of our incredible zoological team. Their work behind the scenes with our marine animals is crucial and is the foundation of what SeaWorld stands for. From orcas to otters, sharks to seabirds, our dedicated team members bring passion, expertise, and heart to their work—creating unforgettable experiences for guests and advancing the mission of conservation.

Join us Friday, August 8 at Mission Bay Theater to hear from these amazing individuals as they share their inspiring journeys and celebrate the powerful connection between people, animals, and the natural world. Make sure to RSVP now!

5:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Mission Bay Theater

Panelists

Zookeeper in front of Orca

Taryn Brand, Orca Team

A childhood visit to SeaWorld sparked Taryn’s lifelong passion for orcas—a passion that now fuels her every day as part of the dedicated orca care team. With a deep commitment to animal well-being, teamwork, and guest education, Taryn helps create powerful moments of connection that inspire the next generation of ocean stewards. Her story is a testament to where wonder can lead when nurtured with purpose.

Zookeeper and Seal

Becca Gladura, Sea Lion and Otter Team

Becca’s journey began in education and found its home in animal care—where her passion for connection became her purpose. Now a vital member of the Sea Lion & Otter team, she’s a dedicated advocate for the animals in her care. Through genuine bonds and engaging guest interactions, Becca helps spark empathy and deepen understanding—turning curiosity into conservation.

Zookeeper with dolphins

Lauren (LJ) Ford, Dolphin Team

With over two decades of experience, LJ brings both heart and leadership to the Dolphin team. Her deep-rooted commitment to animal welfare is evident in every interaction—from crafting personalized enrichment for each dolphin to guiding and mentoring the next generation of trainers. LJ’s work exemplifies the powerful connection between experience, empathy, and excellence in animal care.

Zookeeper

Becca McGill, Aquarium Team

As a Senior Aquarist, Becca plays a vital role in caring for the incredible sharks and marine species in SeaWorld’s shark lab. With a strong focus on education and conservation, she helps spark curiosity and awareness in guests and campers alike—sharing the science behind the scenes and the importance of protecting these often-misunderstood animals.

Zookeeper in front of SeaWorld sign

Sammi Arsuffi, SeaWorld Rescue

As part of the SeaWorld Rescue team, Sammi has gained invaluable hands-on experience caring for a wide variety of animals—from critical rescues to daily support in the park. Her versatility shines through in her work with both the bird and sea lion teams, reflecting her passion for animal welfare and her commitment to making a difference wherever she’s needed.

Zookeeper

Marina Enikeeva, Wild Arctic Team

Marina’s dedication to training and enrichment plays a key role in advancing the Wild Arctic team’s exceptional animal care. By fostering trust and encouraging animals to actively participate in their own healthcare, she helps ensure both their well-being and quality of life. Her creativity and commitment bring fresh, engaging experiences to the animals each day.