Dylan McDowell

Dylan McDowell works at the intersection of science and policy where he specializes in making complex information concise and accessible. Originally trained as a science communicator, his background includes developing education and communication materials for the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, the Hatfield Marine Science Center, and Oregon Sea Grant. He began working in public policy at the Oregon State University (OSU) Government Relations Office, where he supported efforts to expand OSU Extension programs in the state legislature and managed legislator outreach. 

Dylan graduated summa cum laude from OSU with Honors Bachelor of Science degrees in Fisheries and Wildlife Science and in Education. Dylan was selected as a 2018 SHIFT Emerging Leader for his work related to outdoor conservation and health and has served on the program’s Advisory Council since. He was also chosen for the 2020 Blue Pioneers Program Accelerator at UC Santa Cruz for leaders and innovators working on ocean conservation. He lives in Salem, Oregon, where he is Chair of the city’s Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, served on the city’s Climate Action Plan Task Force, and is a co-founder of Salem Bike Vision, an initiative to increase safe and protected infrastructure throughout the community. He recently gained the new title of Twin Dad and is excited about the adventures to come.