Claire Simeone

Dr. Claire Simeone is a conservation leader and marine mammal veterinarian with over a decade of experience dedicated to improving the health and welfare of marine animals and their ecosystems. Trained in veterinary medicine, Simeone has made significant contributions to marine mammal medicine, developing innovative therapies and conducting important research on health trends that benefit both marine life and human communities.

Simeone has played pivotal roles in both clinical and conservation capacities. She previously served as the Director of the Hawaiian Monk Seal Conservation Program at The Marine Mammal Center, which is recognized as the world's largest marine mammal hospital. Currently, she is the Founder and CEO of Sea Change Health, an organization committed to safeguarding ocean health. In this role, she continues to push the boundaries of veterinary medicine and ecosystem health through her leadership and research initiatives. Notably, in October 2019, she was involved in the rescue and medical treatment of a critically ill Hawaiian monk seal, further highlighting her hands-on expertise in marine mammal care.

As a TED Fellow, the first veterinarian ever selected for this honor in 2018, Simeone has gained recognition as an impactful public speaker. Her notable talks include a presentation on sparking individual action against climate change at TEDxValencia and introducing the concept of 'zoognosis' at a TED event. These engagements, along with her numerous scientific publications and book chapters, underscore her commitment to sharing knowledge and fostering a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of animal and human health. Simeone's work not only advances the field of veterinary medicine but also inspires others to consider innovative and compassionate approaches to conservation and leadership.