Sara Chapman is a marine biology educator, aquarist, and the founder of Fish2Friends, a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring, encouraging, and educating students to pursue their passions in marine science and STEM. Born and raised in Chesapeake, Virginia near Virginia Beach, Sara’s love for aquatic life began at an early age. Her career path has taken her through hands-on roles at fish hatcheries, aquarium life support systems, and in aquatic animal care and husbandry. As a professional aquarist, Sara gained a deep appreciation for the inner workings of aquariums, not only through animal care but also through her fascination with life support systems that keep marine environments thriving. It was during this time that she discovered her true calling: marine science education.

Working in education gave Sara the opportunity to connect with students and communities in ways that were both meaningful and transformative. She realized there was a deep need to bridge the gap for students—especially Black and underrepresented youth—who have a passion for marine science but lack access to resources, exposure, and mentorship. That vision became Fish2Friends: a dynamic enrichment program that brings marine biology and STEM directly to students through hands-on learning, outreach, and mentorship. Under Sara’s leadership, Fish2Friends empowers the next generation of ocean stewards by showing them that science belongs to them—that their curiosity, creativity, and brilliance have a place in the field. With discipline, compassion, and purpose, Sara is building a movement rooted in representation, opportunity, and love for the ocean and the youth who will protect it.