Riverkeeper Names New Executive Director
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 8, 2010
Press Contact:
Contact: Tina Posterli, [email protected], 914-478-4501 x 239
Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., and Board of Directors appoint Paul Gallay after nationwide search
Tarrytown, NY – July 8, 2010 – Riverkeeper announced today the appointment of Paul Gallay as its new Executive Director. Mr. Gallay was selected through an extensive executive search process after Alex Matthiessen announced he was stepping down from the position earlier this year.
“Paul has spent over 25 years working to protect the environment as a non-profit executive, government official, litigating attorney and educator,” stated Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., Riverkeeper Chief Prosecuting Attorney and Board of Directors Vice Chair. “He brings extensive experience in all the dimensions our board believes are critical to continue our amazing record of success and to the evolution of Riverkeeper.”
Dr. Howard A. Rubin, Chair, Riverkeeper Board of Directors, added, “Paul’s wealth of community and private experience, environmental enforcement accomplishments and track record of management and operational success will be valued assets in our ongoing efforts to protect the Hudson River and the New York City drinking water supply.”
Mr. Gallay most recently served as President of Maine Coast Heritage Trust. His extensive background includes leadership positions with the Westchester Land Trust, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and New York State Attorney General’s Office.
“I am very gratified at having been selected as the new Hudson Riverkeeper and Executive Director,” said Mr. Gallay. “I grew up in the lower Hudson Valley and spent almost my entire life there and in New York City. I look forward to returning to my roots and working with Riverkeeper’s Board of Directors, talented staff and community members to advance our organization’s unique and essential mission of preserving the Hudson River, one of our most majestic natural resources, and protecting the drinking water supplies that over nine million New Yorkers depend on.”
Mr. Gallay holds a J.D. from the Columbia University School of Law and B.A. from Williams College. He has served on boards and task forces for the New York League of Conservation Voters, Westchester County Global Warming Task Force and the New York State Bar Association.
“While working for the State, I learned the essential role non-governmental and community-based organizations play in assuring proper compliance with our environmental laws. So, it’s a true privilege to be asked to lead Riverkeeper’s great staff as we fight for a green and sustainable future for all of New York’s communities,” noted Mr. Gallay.
