DATE: Thursday, April 24, 1997              TAG: 9704240577

SECTION: LOCAL                   PAGE: B1   EDITION: NORTH CAROLINA 

SOURCE: STAFF REPORT 

DATELINE: MANTEO                            LENGTH:   30 lines

COA OFFICIAL TO HEAD LOCAL AQUARIUM

College of the Albemarle Development Director David Griffin has been named director of the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island.

Griffin's appointment was announced to the aquarium staff Wednesday by state Aquariums Director Rhett White, who praised Griffin's management abilities and familiarity with coastal resources.

``We are very satisfied to be able to name a person of David's talents and background to the directorship at Roanoke Island,'' White said. Prior to his work in development at COA in Elizabeth City, Griffin served that institution as an interim vice president.

He also has been a district manager for the state Division of Coastal Management. In addition, Griffin has been a high school science teacher and a Sea Grant marine extension agent. He has a master's degree in oceanography.

Griffin's appointment caps a search of nearly a year. He replaces White, who now is director of the three state aquariums.

Griffin, who lives with his wife, Tami, and their three children in Camden, was born in Elizabeth City, graduated from Camden High School and received a bachelor's degree in zoology from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. He is currently seeking a doctor of education degree from North Carolina State University. His wife is employed by the Pasquotank County Board of Education.

Griffin will assume his duties as director on June 1, 1997.

Send Suggestions or Comments to webmaster@scholar.lib.vt.edu