Our Team
James McCarthy
Also from Chicago, James is a dedicated student-athlete at New College of Florida in Sarasota. As a key member of the baseball team, James exemplifies discipline, teamwork, and perseverance—qualities that also define his academic journey. He is currently majoring in Political Science with a Pre-Law minor, driven by a strong interest in governance, policy, and the legal system. James aspires to pursue a career in law, where he can combine his analytical skills and passion for justice to make a meaningful impact.
Beyond the classroom and the baseball field, James is committed to personal growth and leadership development, actively seeking opportunities that challenge him and expand his perspective. His ability to balance rigorous academics with the demands of collegiate athletics speaks to his determination and time management skills. James brings a unique blend of competitiveness, intellectual curiosity, and a forward-thinking mindset to every team and project he joins, making him a valuable asset to our organization as the Secretary.
Matthew Merk
From Chicago, Matthew is a student-athlete at New College of Florida, where he plays baseball and studies Business Economics. With a sharp eye for branding and audience engagement, Matthew serves as our Director of Media Management, bringing both strategic insight and creative energy to our communications.
Off the field, Matthew has built a strong personal presence as a content creator on TikTok and Instagram, where he’s gained a quality following by sharing engaging, sports-related content. His experience navigating digital platforms and building an authentic online brand makes him uniquely equipped to lead our media outreach, social engagement, and storytelling initiatives.
Jonathan Smalenski
Hello, I’m Jonathan, a current political science student and baseball player at the New College of Florida, and founder of Coastal Future Florida. I launched this initiative out of a deep commitment to environmental advocacy, science-based solutions, and community-driven change.
Together, we’re building an organization that not only advocates for marine conservation but also empowers researchers, educates communities, and advances policies that ensure a thriving future for Florida’s coast.
Thank you for supporting us on this journey. Stay tuned — we’re just getting started.
Warmly,
Jonathan Smalenski
Executive Director
Coastal Future Florida
Owen McKinley
Raised along the beaches of Palm Coast, Florida, Owen grew up with a deep connection to the ocean and a strong appreciation for marine life. Today, he brings that same passion and dedication to his role as Treasurer for our organization. Owen is a student-athlete at New College of Florida in Sarasota, where he plays baseball while pursuing a joint major in Political Science and Economics. His academic background provides him with a solid foundation in financial management, policy, and analytical thinking—skills that make him an exceptional fit for overseeing the organization’s finances.
Owen’s love for Florida’s coastline has inspired his commitment to conservation and sustainability, aligning perfectly with our mission. His leadership, financial acumen, and passion for preserving Florida’s marine ecosystems make him an integral part of our team and our vision for the future.