Posted: October 11, 2011

Christina Trapani, 39

Assistant stranding response coordinator, Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center; owner, Eco Maniac Co.

At work

After moving to Virginia Beach, I volunteered for the aquarium's Stranding Response Team. I was hired in 1999 and worked my way up to stranding information specialist. I have responded to countless stranded sea turtles and marine mammals. I have performed necropsies, rehabilitated sea turtles and seals, maintained databases, written grant proposals and reports, managed volunteers and educated the public. My work inspired me to start Eco Maniac Co., a business that helps promote sustainable living.

Home and family

Nick (significant other), Hunter (Husky) and Indie (mutt).

Volunteer activities

Mentor for Project Green Teens; commissioner for Virginia Beach Clean Community Commission; organizer for the Old Beach Green Market; organizer for multiple beach cleanups including the International Coastal Cleanups; organizer for this year's Fair Trade Festival.

Proudest work accomplishment

During the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill, I helped with sea turtle rehabilitation on the Gulf Coast in New Orleans and Florida. I assisted with medical treatments, husbandry and cleaning of approximately 200 threatened and endangered sea turtles.

Balancing time

I've finally gotten to the point where I make time for myself, my friends and family. I think it's important to keep a clear mind and a level head.

Downtime

I enjoy watching movies, kayaking, riding my bike, spending time with Nick and the dogs, exploring Hampton Roads and beyond. I try to take extended downtime for family visits and camping a few times a year.

Professional goal in five years

I have just been promoted to a new position that will allow me to spend more time on conservation and education. I would like to see my position and my business grow so that I can educate people on living a more sustainable lifestyle.

Biggest success factor

Passion and compassion are the driving force of my success. I love everything that my job and business stand for, so I strive to make them successful.

The one thing I'd change about Hampton Roads

I would like to see more environmental awareness, education and action. Small changes can make a huge impact on the well-being of our environment in Hampton Roads, as well as the rest of the planet.

Dream dinner guest list

My family, including those I never had the opportunity to meet, my friends, old and new, who have been so supportive of my work, my co-workers and volunteers, and if this is a dream, I'll go with Al Gore, the Dalai Lama, Jacques Cousteau, Archie Carr and Temple Grandin.

What gets under your skin?

The fact that most, if not all, of the pollution in this world is avoidable. The list is so long, but balloons, single-use plastics and cigarette butts are debris that could be avoided with education.