Summary: Seasoned professional with graduate degrees in environmental science, public policy, and science writing. Diverse experiences in environmental protection, program evaluation, science communication and journalism. Strong research, analytical, and writing skills. Able to identify core messages, synthesize and translate complex topics into clear prose, and craft compelling stories. Extensive experience leading scientific workshops and facilitating large meetings to achieve specific objectives. 

Education

Master of Arts in Writing, Science Writing Program. Johns Hopkins University, Krieger School of Arts and Sciences; Baltimore, Maryland.

Master of Science in Environmental Science. Indiana University, School of Public and Environmental Affairs; Bloomington, Indiana.

Master of Public Affairs. Indiana University, School of Public and Environmental Affairs; Bloomington, Indiana.

Bachelor of Science, Department of Natural Resources. Cornell University, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences; Ithaca, New York.

Professional Experience

Freelance Environment and Science Writer. January 2012 – present. Pitch, research, and write stories on the environment, health, food, and related topics. Work published in The Washington Post, Scientific American, Civil Eats, High Country News, Ensia, Pacific Standard, and many other outlets. See Published Works for links.

Thesis Advisor, Science and Medical Writing Program, The Johns Hopkins University. September 2018 – present. Review and edit theses drafts and advise graduate students on narrative arc, story and sentence structure, word choice and grammar to ensure that their portfolio of work meets university standards for a graduate thesis.

Writer – Editor, SkyTruth (contract). September 2019 – April 2022. Managed and edited the blog of the nonprofit environmental technology group SkyTruth. Developed content and worked collaboratively with technical staff to ensure that SkyTruth’s work using remote sensing and artificial intelligence was communicated effectively to diverse audiences including funders, activists, and researchers. Collaborated with leadership to write grant proposals, revise website, and develop strategic plan. Wrote annual reports.

Science Communication Coach, COMPASS. September 2015 – June 2019. Designed and led workshops (in person and online) to teach environmental and biomedical scientists in academia, research institutions, and government agencies how to communicate more effectively with policymakers, journalists, other scientists, and laypeople. Guided scientists in identifying their audiences, finding their core messages, and conveying them successfully. Lead author of The Message Box Workbook to help all scientists apply these skills to their work.

Principal, Turnstone Consulting. April 2001 – December 2012. Linked science and policy in policy analysis, report writing, program evaluation, project management, and meeting facilitation. Clients included The David and Lucile Packard Foundation, The Pew Charitable Trusts, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, and other major nonprofits. Served as project manager for multidisciplinary research team examining contaminants in farmed and wild salmon and guided the team to publication in the journal Science. Led 17 conservation groups to agreement on sustainable seafood principles through facilitated meetings and iterative draft documents.

Program Director, Marine Conservation Institute. January 1997 – March 2001. Ran the Washington, D.C., office of nonprofit dedicated to advancing the science of marine conservation biology. Advised organization leadership on all policy issues. Organized and facilitated scientific workshops compiled proceedings, and promoted results with policymakers. Worked closely with the White House Council on Environmental Quality to develop Executive Order 13158 requiring federal agencies to coordinate a network of marine protected areas.

Policy Analyst, Sierra Club Legal Defense Fund (now Earthjustice). July 1995 – October 1996. Evaluated the impacts of federal policies on riparian wildlife habitat. Influenced legislation by analyzing legislative proposals, collaborating with allies, and communicating with Congress and federal agencies. My major successes included increasing environmental monitoring of the Louisiana Offshore Oil Platform and protecting Louisiana’s only National Forest from increased military activity.

Evaluator/Senior Evaluator, U.S. General Accounting Office (now Government Accountability Office). January 1990 – July 1995. Designed, researched, and wrote reports and testimony for Congress evaluating natural resource programs in federal agencies. Analyzed statutes, regulations, and agency documents; interviewed agency officials, academic experts, and others. Coordinated evaluation teams across the country. Made clear recommendations for reforms.

Affiliations

National Association of Science Writers – Member

Southwest Science Writers Association – Founding Board Member

American Conservation Film Festival – Selector, Past President and Board Member

Awards & Honors

Humane Society of the United States

• Genesis Award for outstanding online reporting and creative portrayal of animal protection issues in 2018.

National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration

• Environmental Hero Award 2000

U.S. General Accounting Office

• Meritorious Service Award, 1994
• Special Recognition for Outstanding Performance, Special Commendation Awards 1990-1994

Indiana University

• Pi Alpha Alpha Honor Society

Cornell University

• Dean’s List
• Phi Kappa Phi and Ho-Nun-De-Kah Honor Societies

Continuing Education

Santa Fe Science Writing Workshop. May 2019

Conversa Language School.  San Jose, Costa Rica.  May 2003

Rhodes Academy of International Ocean Law and Policy. Rhodes, Greece. Diploma.  July 2000