Thursday, July 3, 2025
Briefly Describe Your Role At The Council
As Director of Government Relations at the Adirondack Council, I play a key role in advancing the organization’s policy priorities at the local, state, and federal levels. I work closely with fellow program directors and our Deputy Director to identify and prioritize legislative, regulatory, and budgetary issues critical to protecting the Adirondack Park. A major component of my role involves providing strategic advice, delivering timely updates, and offering actionable recommendations to both staff and the Board of Directors, as well as the Government Relations Committee.
I represent the Council in Albany, Washington, D.C., and throughout the region, maintaining and leveraging a strategic network of policymakers, advocates, and stakeholders to build support for the Council’s mission. I also coordinate closely with the Executive and Deputy Director, supporting their participation in high-level advocacy meetings. Internally, I supervise the Government Relations team and guide the execution of our program objectives.
It’s 5:00 on a Friday, and you’re leaving the office for the weekend. Where are you going, what are you doing?
This depends on the season; in the winter, I’m gearing up to go skiing over the weekend at either Gore Mountain or Whiteface Mountain. Getting out and skiing with friends and family is, hands down, my favorite activity, and another great excuse to head up to the Adirondacks and enjoy nature. In the other three months, I’m usually making my way to watch whatever sport my niece and nephews are playing, so right now I’m going to watch their lacrosse games.
What’s one thing people don’t know about the Adirondacks, but should?
One thing people don’t often realize about the Adirondacks is how accessible and affordable its world-class outdoor recreation can be. With no entry fees and countless public access points, the park offers thousands of miles of trails, waterways, and campsites that are free or low-cost to enjoy.
What is one issue that we are engaged in that means a lot to you?
One issue that means a great deal to me is protecting the Adirondacks from invasive species and the increasing impacts of climate change. These threats endanger the region’s native biodiversity, clean waters, and the recreational opportunities so many depend on. Invasive species, such as milfoil and the hemlock woolly adelgid, can devastate ecosystems, while climate change brings more intense storms, warmer waters, and shorter winters. I’m proud to work on policy solutions that address these challenges.