Tony Arnell has assumed the position of Director of Development at the Oregon Coast Aquarium (OCAq), following Molly Dumas, who retired after seven years with the nonprofit organization. As a core member of OCAq’s senior leadership team, the Director of Development drives strategic planning, secures annual grants and appeals for programs and projects, facilitates planned gifts, and leads membership efforts.
“We are thrilled to have Tony join our senior leadership team,” said OCAq President and CEO Carrie Lewis. “His background in conservation and previous successes in fundraising will be a tremendous asset to the Aquarium. Tony’s strategic mindset, passion for marine life, and dedication to the Oregon Coast fit perfectly with our mission and values.” A native Oregonian, Arnell first stepped through the Aquarium’s doors over 30 years ago, maintaining a connection ever since. Having prior development and fundraising experience with the Oregon Zoo Foundation, Zoo Boise, the Bird Alliance of Oregon, and SOLVE, Arnell looks forward to supporting yet another organization in the environmental sector. “For me, the Aquarium has always represented a link to the importance of protecting our oceans and marine wildlife,” Arnell said. “I am grateful to have the opportunity to connect current and future supporters to the incredible work going on here, each and every day.”
Arnell will continue to build upon the network of support fostered by Dumas, who leaves behind quite a legacy. During her tenure at OCAq, she coordinated a multimillion-dollar capital campaign, yielding an unprecedented number of donors and contributions. While the Aquarium continues to unveil renovations and new features, the final component of the campaign is the construction of a dedicated marine wildlife rehabilitation center, set to begin in 2025.
“With OCAq in the middle of an incredible transformation, it will be wonderful to see and share the impact of many years of donor support leading up to this point,” said Arnell. “I’m beyond excited to be here.”
