Shannon Switzer Swanson
Marine Social Ecologist
National Geographic Explorer
WaterWoman
Research & Conservation
As a marine social ecologist, I examine community cultures to co-develop effective, place-based marine conservation.
Explore some of my work below, and
Storytelling & Speaking
As a photojournalist, I reveal our deep ties to the natural world through words and images.
Impact & Education
As a WaterWoman, I explore the ocean to deepen understanding and advance innovative career paths with others.
Caring for Oceans
Caring for People
Proudly associated with
About Shannon Switzer-Swanson
Assistant Professor of Environmental Studies, CSUSM National Geographic Explorer
Dr. Shannon Switzer Swanson represents a distinct and transformative voice in the contemporary landscape of marine science and conservation. Standing at the intersection of academic inquiry, visual storytelling, and social justice, she defies traditional categorization. She is at once a “waterwoman” (a surfer, sailor, and diver deeply immersed in the physical reality of the ocean) and a “marine social ecologist”, a scholar applying advanced theoretical frameworks from anthropology and psychology to the management of marine resources.
Currently serving as an Assistant Professor of Environmental Studies at California State University San Marcos (CSUSM), Dr. Swanson’s trajectory from a National Geographic Explorer and photojournalist to a Stanford-trained Ph.D. offers a compelling narrative of interdisciplinary evolution
I explore how culture, emotion, and justice shape our relationship with the ocean, helping organizations and individuals navigate the complex waters of the Blue Economy.
Clients who have worked with Shannon
How I Can Help You
Speaking Engagements
“Stories have the power to inspire change. As a National Geographic Explorer and seasoned photojournalist, I craft compelling narratives that bring marine conservation issues to life.”
Contact me for
- keynote speeches at conferences
- panel discussions on marine ecology & sustainability
- custom storytelling workshops for organizations
Educational Guidance
Interested in how ecology, the ocean and people connect?
I help with
- educational workshops for schools and universities
- curriculum consultation
- student and family career consultation
- interactive tools and virtual ecosystem tours
- educational- and eco-travel guides
Research In Practice
With over ten years in marine ecology research, I offer insights that connect science to practical solutions, ensuring conservation strategies are grounded in human behavior.
My insights include:
- Tailored research consulting for NGOs and government agencies
- Data-Driven Sustainability, GIS & Bio-conservation Analysis
- Community-based conservation strategy development
Current Research
PhotoVoice Research
Dr. Swanson employs this visual participatory method to hand the camera—and the power—back to fishing communities, allowing them to document their own lived experiences and reveal the hidden “psycho-cultural” motivations behind resource use.
California Coastal Equity
Bringing her expertise home to Southern California, she is currently investigating barriers to coastal access for marginalized communities and the critical role of subsistence fishing in local food security.
Previous Research Initiatives
PhotoVoice Research
Dr. Swanson employs this visual participatory method to hand the camera—and the power—back to fishing communities, allowing them to document their own lived experiences and reveal the hidden “psycho-cultural” motivations behind resource use.
Sama-Baju Fishers
Focused on the Indigenous “sea nomads” of Indonesia demonstrating how local cultural temporalities and food sovereignty must be central to effective conservation policy.
Reef To Aquarium
a.k.a. Finding Dory Effect
Investigating the global supply chain of the Blue Tang, she traced fish from Indonesian villages to US retailers, discovering that the trade is often a vital economic lifeline for coastal families rather than solely an ecological threat.
Watershed Restoration
In a “source-to-sea” expedition funded by National Geographic, she trekked and paddled through San Diego’s watersheds to visually document how upstream pollution and urbanization directly degrade downstream coastal ecosystems and public health.
“My work is driven by empathy – understanding how communities view their environment is key to creating lasting change. I believe that science isn’t just about data; it’s about connecting with people to inspire hope and action.”
Shannon Switzer Swanson
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