(deceased) Dr. Tegner was a world-renowned expert on kelp forest ecology. In 31 years as a research marine biologist at Scripps Institution of Oceanography she focused on near-shore marine resources, specializing in abalones, sea urchins, and the kelp itself. She was instrumental in closing California’s abalone fishery and in dealing with sewage pollution problems off San Diego. Mia’s work studying and protecting the marine environment earned her many honors, including a Pew Fellowship, Cooper Ecology Award, and University of California, San Diego, Distinguished Alumna of the Year Award.