Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant’s external advisory committee is comprised of industry, conservation, community, and agency leaders representing the bi-state area and broader Great Lakes region. The committee aids in defining IISG’s strategic goals, including providing guidance throughout the strategic planning process. It helps IISG assume a vital role in the science and practice of coastal restoration and management in our region.

External advisory committee members listed below will serve their term from 2025 – 2028. The leaders of the Illinois Coastal Management Program and the Indiana Coastal Management Program are ex-officio members and will remain on the IISG external advisory committee.

• Meg Kelly – Program Director, Illinois Coastal Management Program Office
• Chuck Knapp – Vice President, Conservation Research, Shedd Aquarium 
• Jenny Orsburn – Program Manager, Indiana Lake Michigan Coastal Program
• Vic Santucci – Lake Michigan Program Manager, Illinois Department of Natural Resources
• Mike Searcy – Treasurer, Indiana Aquaculture Association; Owner, White Creek Farms of Indiana LLC
• Jason Taylor – Superintendent, Indiana Dunes National Park