Expert Bio

Elley Donnelly is the Program Associate for the Wilson Center’s Polar Institute. As Program Associate, she works with the director to promote the Institute's strategic growth and content development, and coordinates strategic partnerships. She has a bachelor’s degree in government from the US Coast Guard Academy, with a focus in international relations. After graduation and receiving her officer’s commission, she served as a Deck Watch Officer onboard USCGC ALEX HALEY and was assigned to USCG Base Kodiak in Kodiak, Alaska, which strengthened her interest in fisheries management and Arctic policy. After her time in the Coast Guard, Elley earned her master’s degree in Marine Affairs from the University of Washington’s School of Marine and Environmental Affairs. Her research interests include US Arctic policy, marine resource management, and international relations in the maritime domain.