He set forth to "strengthen students' conservation attitudes through marine science activities" as his graduate program master plan. Guided by the four AIP tenets (inquiry, local and regional understanding, community participation and voice, and ecological stewardship), he has developed course curricula that give his students the opportunity to play active roles in marine conservation initiatives. They collect scientific data on field trips to coastal habitats in Southern California, and they take part in long-term conservation monitoring projects with professionals. Jeff uses his Master of Arts degree and master plan to continue to inspire his students to become stakeholders in local conservation issues.