Congress released its FY26 Commerce, Justice, Science (CJS) appropriations bills, offering early insight into the future of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). While NOAA’s organizational structure remains intact in both spending bills despite Trump’s request, the House and Senate lay out diverging visions for its mission and resources. Dive in with us on […]
Get the inside scoop on all things U.S. ocean policy, including conversations in Congress, what’s up in the White House, and ocean updates from coast to coast.
712 H ST NE Suite 2343 Washington, DC
20002
Thai Boba Tea
Orca
Greater DC area
Marianne helps mission-driven organizations scale their impact through streamlined operations, project leadership, and strategic communications. She leads ESP’s day-to-day operations and ensures firm-wide success. Marianne previously served as Policy and Operations Advisor to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard.
Hot latte with oatmilk
Nudibranch
Based in Oregon
Monaliza has over three years of experience supporting small businesses professionals and managing fast-paced administrative operations. She brings strong skills in client relations, scheduling, and marketing support, ensuring efficient workflows and exceptional service across all facets of the firm.
Ginger Tea
Sea turtles
Davao City, Philippines
Sarah brings a decade of media relations and science communication expertise to her role at ESP Advisors. Before joining ESP, she reported on marine and coastal science for outlets including National Geographic News, PBS Digital Studios, and Hakai Magazine.
Iced tea
Scalloped hammerhead
Based in Oregon
With over a decade of experience bringing clients’ visions to reality, Cat specializes in marketing and brand development. As both a designer and artist, she excels in visual storytelling and graphic strategy.
Iced coffee with milk
Frog fish
Based on the West Coast
Caroline brings sharp policy instincts and a passion for coastal resilience to ESP Advisors. At the White House Council on Environmental Quality, she supported both the freshwater and ocean policy teams. Most recently, she worked on communications and government affairs for Restore America’s Estuaries, deepening her expertise in habitat protection and federal engagement. Caroline holds a dual degree in Political Science and Fine Art from George Washington University.
Unsweetened Iced Green Tea
Beluga Whale
Based in Washington, DC
Austen Stovall’s background is in coral reef ecology, nature-based solutions, and coastal management. She most recently worked for Representative Jared Huffman (D-CA-02) on his oceans and fisheries portfolio. Austen holds a master’s degree in coastal science and policy from UC Santa Cruz.
Iced oat milk latte with coconut syrup
Corals
Based in DC
Kat draws upon her ocean policy expertise and years of experience managing projects, programs, and teams to catalyze success for ESP Advisors and our clients. Most recently, Kat served as staff for Senator Roger Wicker (R-MS), former Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
Cappuccino with sugar
Seahorse
Based in Virginia
Emily Patrolia founded ESP Advisors to address the need for sophisticated government and public affairs services in the community she holds dear. Emily uses her advocacy and congressional experience and deep understanding of environmental science to lead the firm in all its endeavors.
Cappuccino
Yeti crab
Based in DC
We are a small but mighty team working to build a culture that leans into vulnerability, clarity, integrity, and transparency. Open communication, collaboration, and relationship building are of the utmost importance to our team. While our work is hard-charging and relies on exceptional attention to detail and deadline management, we remain dedicated to the wellbeing of our staff. Our goal is to ensure our team members are fulfilled both personally and professionally.
Pamela Day has over 25 years of experience on Capitol Hill. As Chief of Staff for the late Congressman Don Young (R-AK), father of many initiatives and laws that govern ocean resources today, Pamela managed the annual appropriations process and oversaw 16 original bills that were signed into law.
Coffee
Otter
Maryland