July 18, 2025
Former UW College of the Environment Dean Maya Tolstoy presented Kate with the nomination last month.
WSG is thrilled to share that Kate Litle, WSG interim director and deputy director, was nominated for the prestigious 2025 Washington Governor’s Outstanding Leadership Award.
The award recognizes state managers who “not only met high standards of leadership, but who also advanced innovation, equity and continuous improvement in the work they do every day,” Washington Governor Bob Ferguson wrote in the call for nominations. Kate embodies all of these qualities, and more.
Since joining WSG in 2009, Kate has contributed extraordinary leadership on multiple levels. She first joined as a citizen science specialist, and has also served as the program’s assistant director for programs, deputy director and, more than once, as interim director (a role she resumed as of July 1).
Kate’s nomination letter, which was submitted by the WSG Employee Engagement Collective, highlights her sustained, transformative leadership. This includes Kate’s role in leading WSG in delivering measurable stateside impact: from 2018–2023, the program delivered over $190 million in services and economic benefits to Washington.
The nomination letter also cites her commitment to cultivating a workplace rooted in trust and accountability. “Colleagues describe [Kate] as a steady, trusted presence—someone who listens with intention, offers thoughtful guidance, and fosters a culture of mutual respect,” the nomination letter reads. “Known as a mentor and sounding board, [Kate] is often sought out for insight on complex challenges and organizational history. Through consistent, inclusive communication and a calm, collaborative approach, [Kate] has helped build a workplace where staff feel supported, valued, and empowered to contribute fully.”
Former UW College of the Environment Dean Maya Tolstoy presented Kate with the nomination last month. “Just being nominated is a major honor,” Tolstoy said. “It is a testament not only to your leadership, but to how your team views your leadership.”
The award winners will be announced in September.
From all of us at WSG, we appreciate your leadership, Kate! Thank you for all that you bring to WSG and to the Washington coastal communities that we serve.
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Washington Sea Grant, based at the University of Washington, helps people and marine life thrive through research, technical expertise and education supporting the responsible use and conservation of coastal ecosystems. Washington Sea Grant is one of 34 Sea Grant programs supported by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in coastal and Great Lakes states that encourage the wise stewardship of our marine resources through research, education, outreach and technology transfer.
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JUL
2025