KINGSTON, R.I. – Feb. 19, 2026 – Samuel Filiaggi’s academic journey bridges science, policy, and law, preparing him to understand environmental challenges from multiple angles. A 2025 graduate of the University of Rhode Island and Roger Williams University School of Law joint-degree program and a member of URI’s undergraduate class of 2019, Filiaggi is bringing that interdisciplinary approach to the national stage as a recipient of a 2026 Sea Grant Knauss Fellowship.

At the core of Filiaggi’s work is a belief that complex environmental problems require more than a single way of thinking. “I chose marine affairs because I wanted to be a problem-solver who not only understands the natural world but also understands how human systems and needs fit into that picture,” he said. “From there, I realized I could become a lawyer, and that skillset could be my contribution as we all work to solve social and environmental problems.”

The Knauss Fellowship places early-career professionals in legislative and executive branch offices in Washington, D.C., where they provide scientific and technical expertise to federal decision-makers on marine, coastal, and Great Lakes issues. Filiaggi is one of 48 finalists selected from 26 Sea Grant programs nationwide for the 2026 fellowship cohort.

“The Knauss Fellowship is one of the nation’s most competitive marine policy fellowships, and Sam’s strong interdisciplinary background and leadership skills made him a standout candidate,” said Tracey Dalton, director of Rhode Island Sea Grant and professor of marine affairs. “Having known Sam as an undergraduate and graduate student, as well as a Sea Grant Law Fellow, I know he is going to make a lasting impact on the field of marine policy.”

An Illinois native, Filiaggi credits the URI–RWU Law joint-degree program with preparing him to address complex ocean and coastal challenges. “I believe no other combination could make me so well-rounded on ocean and coastal issues,” said Filiaggi. Through coursework, applied research, and support from mentors, he gained experience conducting and communicating research on issues such as offshore wind, coastal resilience, international ocean governance, public beach access, and polluted shellfishing grounds.

“My role as a Fellow will be much of the same: working on problems that require more than one knowledge base to solve,” he added. 

Especially drawn to interdisciplinary approaches, Filiaggi sees this perspective as a strength for federal work. “Working across science, law, and policy is incredibly rewarding because it makes me a lifelong learner with the unique perspective needed to see the heart of a problem,” he said. “Applying that background at the federal level is especially exciting because it sets the standards for state and local levels and offers an amazing network of other experts to connect with.” 

While he does not yet know whether he will be assigned to an executive or legislative branch cohort, Filiaggi looks forward to communicating expertise about ocean-related issues to help inform federal decision-making. “I want to contribute to the solutions that people and communities need,” he said. “If I can do that, then I will consider my fellowship a huge success.”

Looking ahead, Filiaggi hopes to make a meaningful contribution through public service. “Times are tumultuous, but reliable information is always an anchor,” he said. “Ultimately, the government is here to serve the people, and science is a tool that can make people’s lives better.”

“I want my career to serve the public and contribute to progress because I believe we all have what it takes to leave the world better than we found it,” he added, “and I cannot wait to see where this opportunity takes me.”

This story was written by Anna Gray in the College of the Environment and Life Sciences.