Loon Foundation Announces Leadership Transition to Advance Vision for Pender Harbour Ocean Discovery Station (PODS) (Copy)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: OCTOBER 2, 2025 [Madeira Park, B.C.] – As the Pender Harbour Ocean Discovery Station (PODS) enters a new and pivotal chapter, the Loon Foundation today announced a leadership transition to build on the inspiring vision of its founder, Dr. Michael Jackson, who is retiring after 25 years of service.
Dr. Jackson, a marine ecologist and lifelong advocate for ocean conservation, helped create the Loon Foundation (originally the Ruby Lake Lagoon Nature Reserve Society) and is the visionary behind the PODS marine and climate research facility. He leaves the Loon Foundation and PODS project in the capable hands of its dedicated staff, Board of Directors, and partners, including the shíshálh Nation and Capilano University.
“Dr. Jackson’s passion and imagination brought PODS from an ambitious concept to a legitimate project that is about to break ground,” said Brendan Glauser, member of the Loon Foundation Board of Directors. “His vision is the foundation for everything that comes next, and the Loon Foundation community is grateful for his many contributions.”
To carry that vision forward, the Loon Foundation is pleased to announce Lana Brandt as Interim Executive Director. With nearly 20 years of non-profit experience, including work with the David Suzuki Foundation and as Executive Director of the Rob Stewart Sharkwater Foundation, Brandt brings proven expertise and a strong locally-rooted commitment to guiding PODS through its next phase of development.
“I’m honoured to step into this role at such a pivotal time,” said Brandt. “The vision for PODS is an extraordinary contribution to the local community and broader conservation movement. I’m committed to ensuring that vision becomes a reality, showing that solutions to our greatest challenges can emerge when modern science, traditional knowledge, art, culture and community come together.”
As PODS enters this next phase, priorities include advancing construction, fundraising, expanding community programming, and strengthening relationships and partnerships to bring PODS to life.
“The Loon Foundation is embarking on an exciting and ambitious fundraising campaign for PODS this year, and we’re deeply grateful for the community’s support,” said Will Corse, member of the Loon Foundation Board of Directors.“ With new leadership in place, and with Dr. Jackson’s vision as our compass, we’re excited to realize the full potential of PODS for generations to come.”
The Loon Foundation is a registered non-profit charity dedicated to protecting biodiversity, connecting people with the natural world, and fostering responsible stewardship for future generations.
Pender Harbour Ocean Discovery Station (PODS) will be a vibrant, net-zero facility that inspires, engages, and empowers all its visitors, students and academic researchers with the wonders of the coastal waters of our region. PODS aims to demonstrate by example that scientifically-driven decision-making is essential to finding viable solutions to the most pressing environmental challenges of our time.
Media Contact: Loon Foundation
778.833.2954
media@loonfoundation.org
