“Abigail Hopper’s knowledge of the energy sector, experience working with a wide variety of stakeholders and her legal expertise will be valuable assets to the bureau and the department as we continue to ensure the safe and responsible development of our domestic energy and mineral resources and stand up an offshore wind program,” says Jewell.

Ms. Hopper who served as the Director of the Maryland Energy Administration, assumed her new position on 5 January 2015 as the second director in BOEM’s history. Hopper takes the helm from Acting Director Dr. Walter Cruickshank, who has served since former Director Tommy Beaudreau became Chief of Staff to Secretary Jewell in May 2014.