Welcoming Washington Toxics Coalition’s New Executive Director

Dear Friends of Washington Toxics Coalition:

I have some exciting news to share about a transition at Washington Toxics Coalition.  We are delighted to announce that WTC has hired Laurie Valeriano, our longtime Policy Director, as our new Executive Director.

Laurie has been with WTC since 1995, is a nationally recognized leader in toxics and environmental health issues, and a tireless advocate for our work.  Laurie led the successful campaigns to make Washington the first state in the nation to ban the toxic flame retardant deca (PBDE) and adopt the strongest standards in the nation for toxic chemicals in toys and children's products. She received her B.A in Political Science from the State University at Albany in 1991. An avid gardener, outdoor enthusiast, and cook, Laurie lives in Seattle with her three children.

Laurie has also brought tremendous enthusiasm and expertise to the organization and has positioned WTC as a state and national leader on environmental health strategy, policy and civic engagement.  She steps into this leadership position at a pivotal moment of opportunity in WTC’s 30-year history, as we build on our successes in the state legislature, the promise of federal reform, and our remarkable, talented staff to ensure a safer, cleaner and healthier environment for all.

Laurie will be taking over the position of Executive Director from Maureen Judge on September 1, 2011.  Maureen has dedicatedly served in the role of Executive Director for the last two years with a high level of professionalism and commitment to building a stronger, more sustainable WTC.  She has also acted as board member for King County Conservation Voters and as a leading pro-environmental force in the political field.  Maureen has decided to pursue other interests and we wish her well.  We look forward to her ongoing contributions to our community and the causes we hold so dear.  Please join us in thanking Maureen for her work on behalf of WTC!

Laurie can be reached at lvaleriano@watoxics.org or at 206.632.1545 ext. 114. 

Thank you for your continued support for our health and the environment,

Janna Rolland
Board Chair
Washington Toxics Coalition