Chad Nelsen
Chief Executive Officer
Surfrider Foundation
Dr. Chad Nelsen is the Chief Executive Officer of the Surfrider Foundation, where he leads the world’s largest grassroots network dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of the world’s ocean, waves and beaches, through approaches that integrate coastal recreation with conservation.
Chad grew up on the beaches of Laguna Beach surfing, fishing, and lifeguarding. He has earned a Doctorate degree from UCLA, a Master of Environmental Management degree from Duke University’s Nicholas School for the Environment, and a Bachelor of Science degree from Brown University. Through his research he helped establish the field of “surfonomics,” the study of the economic value of surfing.