From Environmental Science to Policymaking: Morgan’s EMAP Story

As Legislative Director for Ranking MemberJared Huffman (CA-02) and Senior Advisor on the House Natural Resources Committee, Morgan McCue (EMAP ’21) works at the center of environmental policymaking in the United States. Representing California’s 2nd District, Congressman Huffman has long been a leader on environmental and natural resources issues, and McCue plays a key role in advancing that agenda. She manages a legislative team of five, coordinates floor activity and vote recommendations, and ensures that the office’s policy priorities align with district needs and long-term goals. In her role on the Natural Resources Committee, McCue acts as a liaison between the Congressman’s personal office and the committee, helping to ensure complex science informs effective policy solutions. “My day to day varies,” she explains, “but overall I’m focused on advancing policy that aligns with both The Congressman’s district needs and his long-standing commitments.”

McCue was drawn to Georgetown’s Environmental Metrology and Policy (EMAP) program because it offered the rare opportunity to bridge the gap between science and policymaking. “The program’s unique blend of scientific rigor and policy relevance was exactly what I was looking for,” she says. “It provided a space where scientists and policymakers could learn to communicate more effectively. EMAP’s focus on precise, standardized measurement of pollutants and tools for environmental monitoring aligned perfectly with my goal of advancing evidence-based environmental policy.” Through its interdisciplinary coursework covering topics from toxicology to regulatory affairs, McCue developed the ability to translate complex scientific data into actionable, effective legislation.

EMAP provided the foundation that has shaped how McCue approaches policy on Capitol Hill. “EMAP gave me the technical foundation to better evaluate scientific data and ensure that policy recommendations are grounded in sound science,” she notes. “It also sharpened my ability to translate technical information into accessible insights for both my team and the Congressman.” The EMAP skill set has proven essential as McCue tackles major issues in climate change, natural resources management, and environmental protection.

McCue’s path to the Hill began through the John A. Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship, which she applied to during her 2nd year in the EMAP program. She describes the experience as “truly foundational.” The fellowship placed her directly within the legislative branch, giving her experience in developing legislation, managing policy portfolios, and engaging with diverse stakeholders. “That experience solidified my interest in public service and built the policy and communication skills I use every day,” she says. “Nearly five years later, I’ve advanced to Legislative Director and continue to serve as a Senior Advisor on the Natural Resources Committee.” 

One of the most defining moments of her early career was witnessing the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act, the largest climate legislation in U.S. history. “Being part of the process for such a monumental piece of legislation was incredibly formative,” McCue recalls. “It was eye-opening to see how policy ideas evolve into law through collaboration and compromise. It showed me how much impact staffers can have behind the scenes and reaffirmed my commitment to bridging science and policy to drive meaningful change.”

Looking ahead, McCue is passionate about addressing the persistent disconnect between scientific understanding and policy action on issues such as climate resilience, species loss, and ocean health. “So many environmental crises are well documented by science, yet policy responses are often slow or fragmented,” she says. “I’m especially focused on improving how we manage and protect ecosystems like fisheries, coastal habitats, and public lands in ways that reflect both the urgency of the science and the realities of the policy process.”

Her advice to current and prospective EMAP students reflects her own experience: “Embrace the interdisciplinary nature of the program and recognize that there are many ‘right paths’ after graduation. The diversity of backgrounds in EMAP is a real asset, it makes the program stronger and the learning more dynamic. Lean into that network and tailor your experience to your goals.”

If she could return to her first semester, McCue says she’d remind herself that it’s okay not to be the most technical person in the room. “Coming from a policy background, I initially felt out of place among classmates with stronger scientific skills. But the program’s strength lies in that mix. Policy minded students bring an equally important perspective.” She also emphasizes staying hopeful. “It’s easy to feel discouraged by the slow pace of change, but I’ve seen real progress happen through persistent work by people who care deeply. The challenges are real, but so is the opportunity to be part of something that makes a difference.”

From science to policy and legislation, Morgan McCue exemplifies the EMAP mission of translating rigorous environmental science into meaningful, evidence based policymaking that shapes a more sustainable future.