Press release from the Northcoast Environmental Center:
Laurel McKay.
The Northcoast Environmental Center (NEC), a longstanding advocate for environmental conservation and stewardship, is pleased to announce the appointment of Laurel McKay as its new Executive Director. With a Master of Arts in Fine Arts and a deep personal connection to the organization’s history, McKay will lead the organization into its next chapter, building on a legacy of environmental commitment and community engagement,
The appointment carries special significance for the organization. Laurel is the daughter of Tim McKay, who served as Executive Director for 30 years, guiding the organization through decades of environmental advocacy and litigation as well as community involvement before his death. His longstanding dedication helped shape the organization’s identity and establish a foundation for its continued work.
While deeply connected to this history, McKay brings a distinct perspective shaped by their education in studio arts and their own experiences with local and national environmental issues, interests in intersectional feminism, environmental justice, and anti-captalist ethos, and a creative vision for the future of the non-profit. Their appointment represents an opportunity to honor the organization’s roots while exploring new ways to connect people with the natural world and advance its mission of education and stewardship.
“While becoming the Executive Director of the NEC was not something that I ever thought that I would do in my life, having worked here for the last year, I have come to realize, and the Board of Directors have seen, that I have the background and broad range of skills and the calling to carry the organization forward,” said McKay “I look forward to working with our members, supporters, and community to carry this important work in new directions and ensure that the organization continues to make a meaningful difference for generations to come.”
The Northcoast Environmental Center has worked since 1971 to promote understating of the relations between people and the biosphere and to conserve, protect and celebrate all ecosystems of northern California and southern Oregon by proudly providing quality environmental journalism for decades through our monthly publication of EcoNews, coordinating coastal clean-ups and hands on direct community action and environmental advocacy. As Executive Director, McKay will oversee the organization’s programs, operations, partnerships, and strategic direction, working alongside staff, board members, volunteers, and community supporters to strengthen its impact and action.
“We are thrilled that Laurel McKay is embracing the Executive Director role for the NEC. Beyond the familial ties knitted into her fabric, Laurel is transcending her father’s legacy with her humility, resourcefulness, drive and authenticity. She seizes all opportunities thrown her way and deeply aligns with the mission of the NEC and the community it brings together.” said Tiffany Perez, Board President. “We trust her heart and mind to lead this community organization, kindly and fiercely, into the next chapter in the organization’s long history of environmental stewardship. We are confidently looking forward.”
With this leadership transition, the Northcoast Environmental Center reaffirms its commitment to the mission that has sustained it for decades. As the organization looks ahead, it remains dedicated to protecting the environment, fostering meaningful community connections, and ensuring that its work continues to serve future generations.