JULY 28, 2017--Kate Goggin translates complex technical text into everyday terms as a Communications Specialist for OR&R’s Assessment and Restoration Division (ARD).

With responsibility for updating websites, writing blogs, and designing information campaigns, she believes clear communications are a bottom line issue for all organizations. One of her favorite tasks includes editing complicated scientific information into plain language for the public and key stakeholders, such as NGOs, Congress, and the media. Kate joined ARD in Jan 2016 after completing several public affairs assignments at the U.S. State Department and the U.S. Department of the Interior. While at State, she managed international outreach for the Assistant Secretary for Consular Affairs, planned Presidential Summits for State executives, and worked as a Media Spokesperson during the passport crisis of 2007. While at Interior, Kate coordinated partnerships and organized national outreach for the Bureau of Reclamation. Outreach programming, event management, and crisis communications all provide a great background for Kate’s current work, as well as her next assignment. She will fulfill a temporary detail as a Public Affairs Specialist and Media Contact for NOAA’s National Ocean Service. The detail will begin July 31st and will continue through October 31. Both her present and future office locations are in Silver Spring, Maryland. Kate, who is a Washington, D.C. native, holds a degree in Communications Consulting from George Mason University. She is an active member of several professional associations including: the National Association of Government Communicators, D.C. Science Writers, and The Center for Plain Language. She has lived in several other countries such as Bulgaria, the Netherlands, and Mexico, and she enjoys learning about marine and coastal resources while hiking. For more information: email Kathleen.Goggin@noaa.gov. Go back to OR&R Weekly Report.