March 27, 2006 -- Oregon Environmental Council Executive Director to Step Down After 10 Successful Years
Jeff Allen guided OEC’s successful efforts to pass pro-environmental legislation, launched creative new projects improving Oregon’s environment, tripled budget and staff
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Monday, March 27, 2006
CONTACT:
Jeff Allen, OEC Executive Director, 503.222.1963 x104
Steve Greenwood, OEC Board President, 541-968-4324
Cheryl Koshuta, OEC Board Member, 503-944-7236
Portland, OR -- Jeff Allen, Executive Director of the Oregon Environmental Council since 1996, announced today that he will be resigning that post in May to move to Ashland with his wife, who has accepted the position of City Administrator there.
“This is a wonderful opportunity for my wife, and Ashland will be a great place to raise our small children,” said Jeff Allen.
Board President Steve Greenwood of Eugene praised Allen’s work over the past decade. “Jeff led our successful efforts to pass pro-environmental laws in each of the last four sessions, helped launch dozens of creative new projects that have improved Oregon’s environment, and more than tripled our budget and staff – allowing us to accomplish even more in the coming years. While we will miss Jeff’s leadership, energy and enthusiasm, the organization is in excellent position—both financially and programmatically—to move forward.”
Board member Cheryl Koshuta emphasized Jeff’s work to build bridges and forge consensus on difficult issues. “Too often, environmental issues drive people apart. Jeff put OEC in the forefront of work to bring Oregonians together, creating strong partnerships with business leaders, farmers, doctors, nurses, child care providers, and dozens of other interest groups across the state.”
“I am committed to working with the board as long as necessary during this transition,” said Allen, “and I will certainly remain an active volunteer and donor to OEC.”
The OEC board is developing a transition plan, and expects to have a new Executive Director hired this summer.
Founded in 1968, The Oregon Environmental Council (OEC) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization with members throughout the state. We bring Oregonians together for a healthy environment. Via programs such as the Bottle Bill, curbside recycling and the creation of local watershed councils, OEC has played a leadership role in helping Oregonians be part of the solution to environmental problems. Our current programs focus on protecting kids’ health from toxic pollution, cleaning up Oregon’s rivers, and protecting our climate by curbing vehicle pollution. For more information about OEC, visit our Website at www.oeconline.org.
