US Names New BOEM Boss

Abigail Ross Hopper was sworn in by Interior Secretary Sally Jewell as the second Director of BOEM in the history of the bureau.

Hopper served as the Director of the Maryland Energy Administration and assumed her new position on January 5, 2015.

Hopper will take the helm from Acting Director Dr. Walter Cruickshank, who has been serving since former Director Tommy Beaudreau became Chief of Staff to Secretary Jewell in May 2014.

“Walter’s institutional knowledge and expertise are invaluable to this Department as we continue to chart a new frontier for offshore wind, and uphold high standards for oil and gas development in waters that belong to all Americans,” said Secretary Jewell . “I appreciate Walter’s leadership and commitment to public service.”

Hopper has led the Maryland Energy Administration since 2012, first as Acting Director and then as Director in June 2013. She also served concurrently as Energy Advisor to Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley since 2010.

Hopper graduated Cum Laude from the University of Maryland School of Law and earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Dartmouth College.

“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,” said Secretary Jewell. “She is an accomplished professional who brings strategic leadership and long-term vision to the job, and I look forward to having her as a member of our senior leadership team.”