Our Mission

To protect and safeguard our oceans and waterways through cleanups, education, technology, and activism.

The Team

Meet The Captain

Ingrid Shank

Chief Executive Officer & Chief of Sustainability

American-Costa Rican Diplomat Ingrid Shank is leading the team as Chief Executive Officer and Chief of Sustainability for our 501C3, 5 Minute Foundation. Ms. Ingrid’s highly revered background includes over a decade of experience as an Environmental Engineer in commercial scale waste-to-energy projects. Her unwavering commitment to her profession and bettering the planet has led her on a passion purpose, focusing on bridging the gaps between philanthropy and finance in challenged markets and underprivileged demographics.

With a deep love for children and as an advocate of education, Ingrid co-founded the 5MBCU Ocean Hero’s program alongside former President of Costa Rica, José María Figueres. With her American Costa Rican roots, extensive leadership background and experience, Ingrid is well equipped to lead the 5 Minute Foundation. When Ingrid isn’t working you can find her in the ocean of course, surfing with her 3 children or rolling up her sleeves, kids-in-tow, doing cleanups from the beaches of Tamarindo to Malibu.

Ingrid Shank

Navigating Innovation

Chris Salas

Executive Vice President

Chris brings a dynamic blend of leadership and innovation to the forefront of our mission. Enriched by a diverse background that spans the culinary arts, marketing and branding to IT project management. Though Chris approaches environmental activism with a practical perspective, the urgency of ocean conservation and the fight against plastic pollution resonate deeply and so inspired by the foundation's proactive stance, Chris has lend his unique blend of analytical rigor and a creative eye which have been instrumental in enhancing the foundation's digital presence and operational efficiency.

A fervent volunteer, Chris’s dedication extends to contributing to causes from disaster response to ocean advocacy. His commitment to reducing ocean pollution and combating plastic waste embodies the foundation's core mission and his multifaceted background and volunteerism underscore his belief in practical, actionable solutions, driving him to make a significant impact on preserving our oceans.

In pursuit of new experiences, Chris’s passion for travel, photography, and culinary exploration mirrors his enthusiasm for making a tangible difference in the world—one project and one cleanup at a time.