Ashley Koehler, a 2010 graduate of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium School program, has been inducted into the 2024 DACC Hall of Fame for her exceptional contributions to environmental law and her dedication to marine wildlife protection.
From the very beginning of her time at DACC, Ashley demonstrated a deep passion for the environment. After graduating, she pursued a Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Studies from St. John’s University and then earned her Juris Doctorate and Environmental Law Certificate from the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University. While in law school, Ashley interned with prestigious organizations such as Riverkeeper, the Permanent Mission of Papua New Guinea to the United Nations, and the National Sea Grant Law Center.
Ashley’s career has led her to serve in notable roles, including Special Assistant to the Deputy Assistant Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Ecological Services Program. Today, she works as an Attorney-Advisor for NOAA’s Office of General Counsel, where she counsels the National Marine Fisheries Service on the Marine Mammal Protection Act and Endangered Species Act.
In addition to her legal work, Ashley is an active volunteer with conservation organizations like the Wild Dolphin Foundation and serves on the American Bar Association’s Oceans and Coasts Committee. Her leadership and mentorship have earned her numerous accolades, including NOAA’s John A. Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship and the 2017 Bohn Vergari Public Service Award.
Ashley’s dedication to protecting marine wildlife and mentoring the next generation of environmental leaders makes her a worthy inductee into the 2024 Hall of Fame.
The next Hall of Fame Induction will be held in 2029. Learn more on our Hall of Fame page here.