Texas Sea Grant Welcomes New Communications Specialist, Abi Westerlin

Corpus Christi, Texas — Texas Sea Grant welcomes Abigail “Abi” Westerlin as its newest Communications Specialist, supporting the program’s communications and outreach efforts from the Corpus Christi office.

Westerlin joined Texas Sea Grant full-time after graduating from Texas A&M University in May 2026 with a Bachelor of Science in Communication and a minor in English. Prior to stepping into her new role, she served as a Student Communication Assistant with Texas Sea Grant from 2025–2026, where she gained hands-on experience supporting the program’s communications efforts through graphic design, photography, video and digital outreach.

As a Communications Specialist, Westerlin will continue supporting Texas Sea Grant’s mission by leading and contributing to a variety of communications initiatives, including developing newsletters, creating website content, designing graphics and visual materials and producing storytelling content that highlights the impact of Texas Sea Grant’s work across the state.

Westerlin brings a strong background in science communication, marketing, graphic design and creative storytelling. In addition to her experience with Texas Sea Grant, she previously served as a Communication Assistant with the Oregon Sea Grant Program, where she developed content for websites, social media and publications. She also worked as a Junior Graphic Designer for Satori Marketing, designing digital and print marketing materials and producing brand-consistent creative assets. Her experience with SPRITE and freelance work has further strengthened her skills in strategic communication, design and storytelling.

“What I enjoy most about working with Texas Sea Grant is knowing that the work we do has a direct impact on the communities we serve,” Westerlin said. “As communicators, we’re the bridge between science and the public, and I think that’s an incredibly important responsibility. Being able to help make research accessible is one of the most rewarding parts of my job.”

As a Communications Specialist, Westerlin looks forward to continuing her work with Texas Sea Grant in a full-time capacity and helping share the program’s science, partnerships and impact with audiences throughout Texas and beyond.

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About Texas Sea Grant

Texas Sea Grant is a unique partnership that unites the resources of the federal government, the State of Texas, universities, and communities across the state to create knowledge, tools, products, and services that benefit the economy, the environment, and the citizens of Texas. It is administered through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and is one of 34 university-based Sea Grant Programs across the nation. Texas Sea Grant is a non-academic research and extension program at Texas A&M University. The program’s mission is to improve the understanding, wise use, and stewardship of Texas coastal and marine resources.