Executive Director
Schantz joined the Council’s staff in 1999 and served as director of programs from 2001 to early 2016. In January of 2016 Schantz was officially named as executive director for the Council.
Notable accomplishments include her recognition by the United States Coast Guard in 2015 for her exceptional professionalism, positive demeanor, open communications and contributions in support of the Prince William Sound Subarea Committee, and her work towards the passage of legislation for dual escorts in Prince William Sound under her leadership in 2010.
Schantz served as an elected member of the Valdez City Council from 2012 to 2014. She has served in various positions with Valdez-based organizations including the Valdez Convention and Visitors Bureau, City of Valdez Small Boat Harbor, and Stan Stephens Cruises and Tours.
She was born and raised in New York and graduated from Providence College in Rhode Island with a B.A. in fine arts. Schantz and her two children enjoy spending time in Prince William Sound and at the cabin she built with her late husband on a 20-acre parcel won through the Alaska State Homestead Land Lottery.