Merrill Kaufman
Education Director

Merrill has lived on Maui for 21 years. Originally from Long Island, NY, Merrill joined Pacific Whale Foundation as a research intern in Australia and then moved to Hawaii where she graduated from Chaminade University with a degree in elementary education. Merrill also holds a Montessori early childhood teaching credential. Merrill has 4 daughters who were born on Maui and enjoys gardening, hula, ocean swimming and crafting.

"I love working with young children, especially in outdoor settings. Just observing and questioning kids brings out their innate curiosity and scientific tendencies."

Karen Molina
Director of Youth Education

Karen Molina has been an educator for over 12 years and has taught kindergarten through 8th grade. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies and Art and has a Multiple Subject Credential as well as a Montessori Teaching Certificate. She was a teacher trainer for two years with the Peace Corps in Cape Verde, West Africa and has continued to do extensive work with education in Cape Verde. Karen’s passion is to facilitate critical thinking skills that open and inspire the thrill of learning. Karen has a great respect for each individual child and the perspectives that they share. She loves all adventure: travel, snorkeling, diving, running, rock climbing, friendship and capturing the beauty of life through art.

“I love the quote by Henry David Thoreau that states: ‘What lies behind us and what lies ahead of us are tiny matters compared to what lives within us.’ What we learn lives within us and becomes a part of us forever.”

Erica Gorman
Director of Data and Fulfillment

Erica moved to Maui from Texas and holds a degree in marine biology from Texas A&M University in Galveston and a masters in business administration from University of Phoenix. In addition, Erica is a certified divemaster and rescue diver. Erica joined Pacific Whale Foundation after working 9 years in animal husbandry.

She has one daughter who keeps her very busy. In her free time, Erica enjoys running and is in training for running the marathon.

"I love learning and embrace the opportunity to inspire youth to get outdoors, be active, and learn while having fun.The best feeling is when you see a child beam with pride when he has accomplished something grand in his mind."