Ellen Spooner
About Ellen Spooner
Ellen Spooner is a Communications Specialist with extensive experience in marine policy and education. She has worked for organizations such as NOAA, the Smithsonian Institution, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium, focusing on ecosystem assessment and public engagement.
Current Role at NOAA
Ellen Spooner has served as a Communications Specialist at NOAA: National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration since 2018. In this role, she is based in Silver Spring, MD, and is responsible for developing high-quality communications products for NOAA's Integrated Ecosystem Assessment program. Her work aims to enhance public, stakeholder, and partner engagement. Additionally, she supports the development of NOAA's National Marine Ecosystem Status website, contributing to the agency's mission of promoting understanding of marine ecosystems.
Previous Experience at Monterey Bay Aquarium
Ellen Spooner worked at the Monterey Bay Aquarium as a Great Lakes Seafood Watch Analyst from 2014 to 2015. During her one-year tenure, she focused on sustainable seafood practices and contributed to the aquarium's mission of promoting ocean conservation. This position allowed her to engage with various stakeholders to raise awareness about seafood sustainability in the Great Lakes region.
Background in Marine Policy and Education
Ellen Spooner has a background in marine policy and education, having served as an Ocean Education Specialist at the Smithsonian Institution, Museum of Natural History from 2017 to 2018. She also held the position of John A Knauss Marine Policy Fellow at both NOAA and the Smithsonian Institution during 2016 to 2017. These roles provided her with experience in marine policy development and educational outreach, enhancing her expertise in communicating complex marine issues.
Educational Qualifications
Ellen Spooner holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology from the University of Arizona, where she studied from 2009 to 2013. She furthered her education at the University of Michigan, earning a Master’s Degree in Conservation Ecology with a focus on Fisheries from 2013 to 2016. Her academic background equips her with a strong foundation in ecological principles and conservation strategies.
Research Experience
Before her roles in communication and policy, Ellen Spooner worked as a Research Assistant at the University of Arizona from 2011 to 2013. This two-year position involved conducting research in ecology, contributing to her understanding of environmental science and research methodologies. Her research experience complements her communication skills in conveying scientific information effectively.