Kicking off the Summer 2025 Blue & You Regional Speaker Series!
This event is an opportunity for local waterfront workers and community members to discuss firsthand experiences with rising sea level impacts, and to explore adaptive strategies for sustaining livelihoods.
Janet Coit, Former Director of NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service, will be the keynote speaker. Coit promoted more resilient, “climate ready” fisheries during her time at NOAA along with investing in habitat restoration, new technologies, and expanded scientific surveys.
Attendees also will hear from a panel of RI-based waterfront industry professionals and have time for Q&A and networking.
- Lisa Konicki – President of the Ocean Community Chamber of Commerce
- Matt Behan – owner and founder of Behan Family Farms
- Dr. Josh Humberston – CEO of Coastal Measures
- Rob Torgerson – Founder and president of Kestrel Innovative Fibers (KIF)
- Darya Blout – Founder and CEO of Deep Blue Composites
The panel will be moderated by Casey Tremper, a Coastal Specialist with the University of Rhode Island’s Coastal Resources Center (CRC) and Rhode Island Sea Grant.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND
Fishermen, aquaculture farmers, marina operators, charter captains, coastal tradespeople, and community stakeholders.
WHAT TO EXPECT
- News, updates and insights related to coastal resiliency
- Exploration of / connection over common challenges and concerns
- Networking with peers and resources
- Optional tour of the Westerly Education Center
COST: FREE!
Thank you to the Ocean Community Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Newport Chamber of Commerce for their support.
 |
 |