Fellowship spotlight: Devanie White

Alaska’s fisheries produce more than half of all seafood harvested in U.S. waters, with an annual wholesale value of nearly $4.5 billion. These fisheries are among the most sustainably managed in the world, balancing environmental responsibility with economic vitality. Helping support this system is Devanie White, an Alaska Sea Grant State Fellow, based in Juneau.

White is working with NOAA Fisheries’ Sustainable Fisheries Division, where she contributes to projects focused on fisheries governance and the human dimensions of coastal and marine systems. One of those projects is launching the division’s inaugural Accomplishments Report, which highlights NOAA’s achievements in sustainable fisheries management for both internal and external audiences. In January, White presented on the human dimensions of fisheries management at the Alaska Marine Science Symposium in Anchorage. 

White is also supporting NOAA’s Regional Tribal Engagement Team by contributing to a tribal communication and relationship-building fact sheet, which aims to strengthen collaboration with Alaska Native communities. Another project is assisting with updates to community fishery profiles for several subsistence-dependent Western Alaska communities, helping ensure local perspectives are included in fisheries policy.

“I moved to Alaska for this fellowship,” said White. “Breaking into the field of marine science can be tough, but this experience has given me valuable hands-on opportunities and helped me figure out where I want to focus my career. I’ve learned so much about federal fisheries management and interdisciplinary teamwork.”

When she’s not working, White enjoys movies, photography, yoga, hiking and experiencing the beauty of Alaska’s landscapes.