On December 17, the Environmental Council of the States (ECOS), the national nonprofit, nonpartisan association of state and territorial environmental commissioners, formally announced the selection of Donald S. Welsh as Executive Director.

Welsh brings extensive experience in federal, state, and local government. In his new capacity, he will also direct the Environmental Research Institute of the States, which connects state environmental agencies to education and research resources to support current and emerging environmental policies.

“Don’s experience in leadership roles in state environmental protection and at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency provides him the ideal background to lead ECOS as we work to implement Cooperative Federalism 2.0,” said ECOS President Becky Keogh. “His demonstrated skills in building and maintaining successful partnerships to achieve environmental results will be valuable to the association in our efforts to improve the capability of state environmental agency leaders and their staff to protect and improve human health and the environment.”

Appointed in 2013 by the Governor of Pennsylvania to the Citizens’ Advisory Council (CAC) to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Welsh has served since 2017 as its Chairman.

Welsh also currently serves as a voting member of the Environmental Quality Board, which adopts environmental regulations in Pennsylvania.

He was President & Chief Executive Officer of the Pennsylvania Environmental Council in 2009-2010. From 2001 until 2009, he served as the U.S. EPA Region 3 Regional Administrator.

From 1995 until 2001, Welsh held several positions at the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection including Deputy Secretary for State/Federal Relations. He holds a B.A. in Political Science from the University of Pennsylvania.

As an alumnus of ECOS, Don will be instrumental in helping member states develop consensus while preserving states’ diversity in environmental policy. He has direct experience in organizational management and in creating measurable environmental results.

“I am excited to work with Don to continue our collective efforts to advance science-based decisions,” added ECOS Vice President Jim Macy.

The CAC, where Welsh currently serves as Chairman, conducts independent oversight of the Pennsylvania DEP, participates in the development of regulations, and provides advice on environmental matters to the department, the Governor, the General Assembly, and the federal congressional delegation.

“Under his tenure, the council conducted a systematic review of the major regulatory programs of DEP to provide input on program priorities and efficiencies,” said ECOS Secretary Patrick McDonnell. “Don has been a tremendous partner and public servant to the citizens of Pennsylvania, and I look forward to his contributions to advance the states’ roles at this exciting time for ECOS and our nation.”

For more information on programs, initiatives and upcoming events, visit the Environmental Council of the States website.

[Posted: Dec. 17, 2018]

12/24/2018