Policy Team

Who We Are

The Policy Team includes Chad English, PhD (Director of Science Policy Outreach), Erica Goldman, PhD (Assistant Director of Science Policy Outreach), and Heather Reiff (Science Policy Coordinator). Building on formal training in marine science, oceanography, and biomechanics, we apply real-world professional experience working with federal and regional policymakers to create productive connections between the science and policy communities. Chad and Erica are based in Washington DC. They focus their work on federal policy and it's connections to policy and practice around the country. Heather is based at Oregon State University. From this base, Heather focuses on partnerships with different regions on state and regional level science and policy.

What We Do

The Policy Team works to make science useful to policy and management by connecting scientists directly with decision makers.  In the process, scientists gain a better understanding of policy needs and can develop their research plans accordingly, while policymakers can make use of the perspectives and specialized knowledge that scientists bring for rich and innovative policy discussions.

Policy Events

Working closely with policymakers and others, we design unique policy events, such as legislative briefings, small-group meetings, panel discussions, and field trips, to provide policy audiences with the insight they need to develop informed and innovative policies. Focused on discussion and interaction, our policy events provide policymakers with opportunities to engage scientists directly.

Policy Trainings

As part of our broader communication trainings, the Policy Team helps scientists understand the world of policymakers, including where and how to make their science relevant, compelling, and useful to policymakers.

Supporting Scientist Connections to Policymakers

In some cases, COMPASS can provide personalized assistance to scientists who need help preparing for meetings, hearings, and other discussions with policymakers.  This work taps into our federal and regional expertise to identify opportunities where science can most effectively support policy processes.