Margaret Henderson President, Henderson Strategies, Inc. For over twenty years, Margaret Henderson has been influencing policymakers in Washington, D.C. and around the country, first as a Congressional staff member and now as a political consultant specializing in issue advocacy, coalition building and non-profit management.
Following a five-year stint as Vice President, Government Relations at the National Fisheries Institute (NFI), Margaret began independently representing organizations with vested interests in our oceans and fisheries management. Margaret’s clients have included The Gulf Seafood Institute, the Mississippi Department of Natural Resources, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Cargill, Inc., the Gulf Oyster Industry Council, the Chesapeake Bay Seafood Industries Association, the Friends of the Fishermen Foundation, the Argos Alliance and CLS America, Inc., a global leader in satellite data communications. In 2017, Margaret assumed the contract role of Campaign Manager for Stronger America Through Seafood, Inc., a federal issue campaign promoting expansion of U.S. aquaculture as a means of increasing U.S. seafood production.
The slogan of Henderson Strategies, Inc. is “Expand Your Reach.” Her team’s holistic approach to government relations means working closely with clients to first understand their vision and then to customize strategies that will manifest new, previously unexplored opportunities.
Margaret grew up in Jacksonville, FL and graduated from the University of Florida with honors. After ten years in Washington, D.C. and six in Miami, Margaret and her husband Shawn recently relocated back to Northeast Florida where they are raising their three little girls. Margaret splits her working days between Ponte Vedra Beach and Washington, D.C., a cherished bi-weekly commute that keeps her connected with policymakers in Washington and “real life” outside the Beltway.
Sarah Brenholt Policy Associate, Henderson Strategies, Inc. Sarah Brenholt brings a diverse portfolio of experience to Henderson Strategies, Inc.
She began her career as an office manager for a political campaign and then after the campaign Sarah moved to the private sector to work her way up the corporate ladder in management of transportation logistics. A career change to higher education allowed her to hone her skills in regulation compliance and administrative work. Both regulation compliance and administrative skills are vital assets to our mission with expanding industry partners' reach in D.C.
Sarah’s unique ability to work in a fast paced environment have given her a sharp problem-solving talent. Her communication skills and political savvy have proven critical in achieving our clients' goals. Sarah approaches every opportunity with the same attention to detail and enthusiasm whether it be taking a deep dive into a policy issue, writing abstracts, scheduling or leading meetings on Capitol Hill.
Emily Patrolia Policy Associate, Henderson Strategies, Inc. Emily served as Congressional staff on the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation where she spearheaded legislation and guided priorities at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), including the legislation and hearings on aquaculture. Emily is a subject matter expert on oceans and seafood policy, starting her career advising state governments and regional entities on smart, science-based policies to benefit local economies and plan for the future. Most recently, Emily worked in the private sector, influencing domestic and international policy through advocacy, partnerships, and data-driven solutions. She advised clients on natural resource regulations, supply chain management, and environmental and ocean policy. Emily received her Master’s in Marine Affairs from the University of Rhode Island and her Bachelor's from the University of Delaware.