Roxanne Siual Blesam joins PICRC as new CEO

The Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) is excited to announce the appointment of Ms. Roxanne Siual Blesam as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). A dedicated leader with over twenty years of civil service and environmental advocacy, Ms. Blesam brings a wealth of experience in policy development, regulatory oversight, and international collaboration, making her an ideal choice to lead PICRC into a new era of research and sustainability.

Prior to joining PICRC, Ms. Blesam served as the Chief of Staff to the Vice President/Minister of Justice, where she managed high-stakes projects.  She also held the position of CEO at the Palau Environmental Quality Protection Board (EQPB), overseeing the country’s regulatory framework to protect vital ecosystems. Ms. Blesam’s career includes roles as a Compliance Specialist for EQPB, Project Coordinator for the Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management Project, and National Liaison Assistant for the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Her deep understanding of environmental policy and resource management is further supported by a Master’s degree in Environmental Law from the Australian National University and a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, with a Minor in English, from the University of Guam.

In her new role as CEO, Ms. Blesam is committed to fortifying PICRC’s legacy as a Center of Excellence in marine research, providing critical insights that support sustainable policies for Palau and beyond. “I have had the privilege of collaborating with PICRC on national priorities for many years. It is an honor to now lead an organization so essential to Palau’s future. I look forward to building on PICRC’s achievements, inspiring ocean sustainability, and empowering our community through science and education,” she shared.

Ms. Blesam’s leadership and decades-long commitment to the sustainable management of Palau’s natural resources and promoting sustainable development will be instrumental in guiding PICRC’s efforts to address environmental challenges and secure a sustainable future for Palau’s oceans. PICRC welcomes Ms. Blesam and looks forward to her contributions.