Marianne Gerdes is the Executive Director of the Ilan-Lael Foundation, of which the Pacific Rim Park peace project is one of its most important programs. In 1994, Pacific Rim Park and the Ilan-Lael Foundation, under the artistic direction of artist James Hubbell, launched a global conversation between San Diego and Pacific Rim nations exploring the transformative power of art and the artistic process. This resulted in seven public art parks that now unite the diverse people and nations of the Pacific. An eighth is being built in Yantai, China this summer. The parks transcend language and cultural barriers and explore and celebrate our common humanity. Ms. Gerdes facilitates relationships with governments and public and private organizations who partner in this international project. Ms. Gerdes is also an award-winning film maker and the recipient of five Pacific Southwest Emmy awards for excellence in television programs.