Kendal McCloskey

As a passionate advocate for environmental sustainability, I have dedicated my academic and professional pursuits to advancing marine health and coastal sustainability. My journey began in Rhode Island, where I fell in love with Aquidneck Island and its surrounding waters. This passion led me to focus my studies on environmental sustainability and advocacy, culminating in a Master's degree in Public Administration with a specialization in environmental and coastal sustainability. My research on microplastics in Narragansett Bay and policy alternatives to address this issue highlights my commitment to impactful research and policy development. Through internships at the Aquidneck Land Trust and the Rhode Island State House, I have gained valuable experience in policy drafting, event planning, and grant writing. My work is driven by a deep-seated belief that protecting our oceans is crucial for the well-being of our planet and future generations.

My professional journey has been deeply rooted in environmental sustainability and advocacy, with a strong focus on marine health and coastal sustainability. During my internship at the Aquidneck Land Trust, I gained valuable experience in development and event planning, successfully organizing the Evening at Home fundraiser and coordinating various groups to ensure a seamless event. This role honed my organizational and project management skills. Additionally, my internship at the Rhode Island State House under Representative Jennifer Boylan provided me with hands-on experience in drafting policy memos and understanding environmental legislation. This experience enhanced my ability to communicate complex information effectively and work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders. As the External Affairs Chair for the University of Rhode Island Student Senate, I developed strong leadership and advocacy skills, representing student interests and coordinating with external organizations. My experience as a substitute teacher further refined my communication and presentation abilities, enabling me to effectively convey information and manage diverse groups. My practical experience in drafting grant proposals highlights my capability to support administrative functions in an advocacy role. Overall, my blend of practical experience, strong communication skills, and passion for environmental sustainability positions me well to excel as an Administrative Liaison for environmental advocacy.

My academic background has provided me with a strong foundation in public administration and environmental policy, equipping me with the skills necessary for a career in environmental sustainability and advocacy. I am currently pursuing a Master's degree in Public Administration, with a focus on environmental and coastal sustainability. Throughout my studies, I have taken several key courses that have directly contributed to my professional development. 

In the course Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Public Administration, I gained a deep understanding of the importance of inclusive practices and policies in public administration. This knowledge is crucial for ensuring that environmental advocacy efforts are equitable and consider the diverse needs of all communities. Public Policy Analysis was a pivotal course where I focused my research on the large amounts of microplastics in Narragansett Bay. I explored various policy alternatives and implementation strategies to address this pressing issue. This experience honed my analytical skills and my ability to develop and evaluate policy solutions, which are essential for effective environmental advocacy. The Seminar in Budgetary Politics provided me with insights into the complexities of public budgeting and financial management. Understanding budgetary processes is vital for securing funding and managing resources effectively in environmental sustainability projects. I also took a seminar in Public Administration, where I delved into the principles and practices of public administration, enhancing my ability to navigate and influence public institutions and policies. This course strengthened my leadership and administrative skills, which are critical for coordinating and managing advocacy initiatives. My last relevant course was on Environmental Policy and Politics which deepened my understanding of the political landscape surrounding environmental issues. I learned how to navigate the political process, advocate for environmental policies, and engage with stakeholders to drive change. 

Together, these courses have helped to equip me with a comprehensive skill set that includes policy analysis, budget management, inclusive practices, and political advocacy. These skills, combined with my practical experiences in environmental sustainability and advocacy, position me well to excel in a professional role dedicated to promoting and advancing environmental health and sustainability.