New Positions At New Jersey Sea Grant Consortium

Michael Danko has been promoted to Director of the Extension. He has the institutional knowledge, expertise, dedication and commitment to the organization necessary to successfully lead the Extension program. Mike has led numerous water quality, sediment and fisheries related projects in the coastal zone for both research and outreach purposes. His extensive experience working with stakeholders to reach consensus on important coastal issues and interpreting scientific results will lead to results that benefit both the coastal economy and the environment.

New Jersey Sea Grant Consortium is pleased to announce the promotion of Julie Shaw to the position of Director of Research and Grants Administration. Since joining our organization in 2021, Julie has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication, strategic insight, and a deep commitment to advancing our research and funding efforts. In this new role, she will lead the development and oversight of our research initiatives and grants portfolio, ensuring continued growth, compliance, and impact. We are confident that Julie’s leadership will further strengthen our ability to support innovative projects and foster meaningful partnerships. Please join us in congratulating Julie on this well-deserved advancement.

Samantha Kreisler has been promoted to the position of Director of Communications. Since joining the organization in 2021 as Communications Specialist, Samantha has demonstrated an exceptional ability to elevate NJSGC’s voice across the state and region. Her strong background in marine policy and conservation, paired with extensive experience in science communication and public engagement, continues to be a major asset to the Consortium.

The New Jersey Sea Grant Consortium (NJSGC) is proud to welcome Yazemin Yilmaz as its new Digital Communications Associate. Yazemin’s journey with NJSGC began in 2009 when, as a child new to Middletown, she discovered the organization through its Marine Science Day Camp. Attending camp became a meaningful summer tradition and sparked her passion for the coast. Years later, she returned to NJSGC as a Communications Intern while finishing her degree in Film & Television at Montclair State University. Now, she’s come full circle, joining the team that helped shape her early love for marine science. Yazemin is excited to support NJSGC’s mission by sharing stories that connect communities to the coast.