Jennifer R. Nolan is an award-winning author and passionate environmentalist with a focus on climate change and ocean conservation. Born and raised in New York, she received her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Vermont in 1986.
As an author, Jennifer has written a series of books aimed at engaging and educating young readers about endangered species and the environment at large. In collaboration with renowned nature photographer Jim Abernethy, her most recent title is Sea Turtles Up Close. Other award-winning titles include Sharks Up Close, The Secret of Pig Island, and Spintastic. Writing future titles is an ongoing pursuit.
Recognizing art as a universal language that can inspire a global audience to take action, in 2014 Jennifer joined the team of artists and activists at Oceanic Preservation Society (OPS), where she serves as board chair and director of engagement. OPS works to expose complex global environmental issues and promotes advocacy through the use of film, major projection events, photography, and social media outreach. The organization is best known for its films The Cove (2009 Academy Award winner for Best Documentary), Racing Extinction (2015, 36+ million viewers on Discovery) and, most recently, a partnership on The Game Changers. OPS projects reach a worldwide audience and demonstrate art as a tool for good. Jennifer is also senior partner at LegaSeas, a 501(c)3 with a mission of advancing the protection of our oceans by advising and supporting individuals and initiatives with the potential for major impact.
Jennifer has decades of experience serving on non-profit boards, ranging from the United States Fund for UNICEF to Maine Audubon. Additionally, family has always been a priority; she and her husband, John Nolan, have proudly raised four sons while living in Maine over the past 35 years.
Jennifer is a fifth-generation member of the Rockefeller family.