Biography

Fenina Buttler helps bring the URI Graduate School’s stories to life. As the school’s Digital Communications Coordinator, she manages web content, newsletters, social media, and digital storytelling efforts that connect the URI grad community with opportunities and resources. She highlights stories that reflect the diversity and excellence of our graduate community, and promote the #1 public university in New England to prospective students.

Before joining the URI Graduate School, she gained extensive experience in communications and outreach across nonprofit, academic, and science‑focused organizations, where she developed skills in strategic messaging, content design, and engaging diverse audiences.

Prior to her role at URI, Fenina was a lead coordinator for STEM professional career development and communications at the Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research. She supported early‑career scientists and contributed to professional development initiatives within a leading international polar and marine research institute.

She also brings experience as a Communications Specialist with the Association for the Sciences of Limnology and Oceanography (ASLO), with the goal to amplify the voices of aquatic scientists worldwide and strengthened outreach across an international research community.

Fenina enjoys collaborating with colleagues on new ways to elevate graduate student stories and strengthen the Graduate School’s digital presence. She is excited to hear your ideas, comments or feedback, and welcomes collaboration and fresh perspectives. Reach out and connect!

Ask Me About

• Crafting digital stories that connect with students and faculty
• Website content strategy and user‑friendly communication
• Social media engagement and digital community building
• Science communication and research storytelling
• Career development and resources for graduate students
• Data‑informed recruitment messaging using Slate

Fun Facts:

• Gardening is Fenina’s passion! She is a proud URI Master Gardener, coordinator and council member, and loves blending sustainability, environmental stewardship, community connection, and creative communication in her work.
• She has lived in Germany, Hawai‘i, and Australia while completing her degrees, and her work has taken her to all seven continents. Yes, including Antarctica!
• She completed an entrepreneurship fellowship program supporting women founders and start‑ups, deepening her commitment to empowerment and community development.