Cate Gelston

Marine Stewardship and Monitoring Specialist

Catherine.Gelston@noaa.gov

Cate Gelston joined the sanctuary in September 2023 as a Mission: Iconic Reefs Marine Stewardship and Monitoring Specialist. As a south Florida native, Gelston was an outdoor enthusiast and avid marine conservationist from a young age. She graduated from Florida State University in 2011 with an undergraduate degree in psychology and biology, focusing on animal behavior and cognition. Gelston’s studies led her to working for the National Marine Mammal Foundation in San Diego California, helping researchers study bioacoustics in rehabilitated marine mammals. After working full-time in wildlife rehabilitation, Gelston earned her master’s degree in marine conservation from University of Miami’s Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Sciences. Prior to joining the FKNMS team, Gelston’s professional experience included working as a Biological Science Technician for Biscayne National Park, freelance consulting for a wildlife documentary series, and conducting coral restoration with the University of Miami. Gelston remains an outdoor recreationist and enjoys slough slogging, cycling, and rock climbing in her spare time.