The Environmental Law Institute Announces Julie Packard as the 2026 Recipient of the Environmental Achievement Award
Julie Packard is an internationally recognized leader in ocean conservation and a leading voice for science-based policy reform.
Julie helped create the Monterey Bay Aquarium and served as its executive director for more than 40 years since its opening in 1984. She also chairs the Board of the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute, a world leader in deep-ocean science and technology, and is a trustee of the David and Lucile Packard Foundation.
Throughout her career, Julie has advanced ocean conservation policy and public engagement on a global scale. Julie has spoken at a number of international forums, including the World Trade Organization and Global Climate Action Summit; was a member of the Pew Oceans Commission; serves on the Joint Oceans Commission Initiative; and was appointed to California’s Parks Forward Commission to help craft a vision and blueprint for the future of the state park system serving 39 million Californians.
Julie has endowed scholarships at UC Santa Cruz that support individuals from historically marginalized communities and has championed aquarium programs that help young women and gender-fluid youth develop confidence and identity in the sciences.
A fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, Julie has received numerous honors for her contributions to conservation and environmental protection, including the Audubon Medal for Conservation, the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation’s Lifetime Achievement Award, the Ted Danson Ocean Hero Award from Oceana, and the California Coastal Commission’s Coastal Hero Award.
In recognition of her dedication to ocean stewardship and conservation, and for elevating public awareness about the ocean environment, a species of deep-sea coral — Gersemia juliepackardae — was named in her honor.
Julie’s visionary leadership has transformed ocean conservation, inspired generations of scientists and advocates, and helped shape a more sustainable future for our planet.
Given annually, ELI’s Environmental Award recognizes leaders in the field who have made notable contributions to environmental protection, conservation, and sustainability. It is officially presented at the ELI Annual Award Dinner, held in October, where environmental leaders from around the world convene to honor the awardees, build new connections, and support the work of ELI.