Biography:
As Creative Content Manager, Hayley Rutger applies her love of science writing, graphic design and photography to support communications for all of the world-class research, education and outreach programs at Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium.
Hayley’s work appears in Mote Magazine, exhibits at Mote Aquarium, Mote’s web site, marketing materials, social media, fundraising campaigns and more. She helps the public gain a better understanding of scientific research and marine conservation efforts taking place in Southwest Florida and around the world. Through these efforts, she works to help the Lab fulfill the goals in its guiding “roadmap,” the Beyond 2020 Vision & Strategic Plan.
Education:
BS, Biology
Graduate Certificate, Science Communications
—GDUSA American Graphic Design Award, November 2025: Tech in the Depths ocean technology exhibit at Mote Science Education Aquarium
—Hermes Creative Award, Platinum, 2025 — Mote’s 2024 annual report (graphic design, written content editor, writing, photography)
—Photography contest winner, September 2024: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Southeast Region, Bird of the Month
—Hermes Creative Award, Gold, 2024 — “The Heat is On” fundraising appeal (sole designer and writer)
—Hermes Creative Award, Platinum, 2024 — Mystery Reef exhibit (content editor, cowriter, and select coral illustrations)
—Hermes Creative Award, Platinum, 2023 — Mote’s 2022 annual report (content editor, primary writer, contributing graphic designer)
—Hermes Creative Award, Gold, 2023 — Communications Toolkit expo & campaign
—2023 GDUSA In-House design award — Spring 2023 Mote Magazine (editor and contributing designer)
—2023 GDUSA In-House design award — 2022 Annual Report (contributing graphic designer and content editor / writer working closely with design lead)
—2022 AZA photo contest highlight selection — West Indian Manatee
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