Benjamin Swanson

Co-Executive Director

Email Ben

Ben is passionate about the environment and helping his community. In addition to serving as Co-Executive Director for Waterway Advocates, he is a musician and educator and holds a bachelor's degree from James Madison University. Ben is a persistent advocate for safe and inclusive environments for all, humans and wildlife alike. Outside of work, Ben enjoys adventuring outdoors, playing piano, and winning at game night.

Caleb Merendino

Co-Executive Director

Email Caleb

Caleb has dedicated his time to environmental advocacy, policy, volunteerism, public safety, and animal welfare. As a fierce advocate, he fights for marine life, clean waterways, and healthy communities. He has shown strong leadership through organizing volunteer clean-ups and working closely with companies and officials on environmental initiatives. When off the clock, Caleb can be found exploring outdoors, kayaking, at the beach, camping, or losing at game night.

Dr. Floof

Chief Joy Officer

Email Dr. Floof

Dr. Floof was rescued by the Waterway Advocates team in the fall of 2021, and she's been adding joy to the organization ever since! Instead of running through intersections, these days Dr. Floof enjoys going for long walks, herding ducks, and using humans as furniture.

Waterway Shep

Field Ops Supervisor

Email Waterway Shep

Shep is our Field Operations Supervisor. He enjoys sniffing flowers and working in the garden. When he's not supervising environmental response, he enjoys partaking in long naps to prep him for tomorrow.