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Becky Kelley
Senior Policy Advisor for Climate to Washington State Governor Jay Inslee
Professional Background
Becky Kelley has dedicated over 25 years of her career to advancing environmental and climate justice through policy, advocacy, and organizational leadership. As a seasoned professional, she recently concluded an impactful tenure at the Washington Environmental Council/Washington Conservation Voters, where she utilized her extensive expertise to foster equitable systems change across various interconnected issues. Her career is marked by a deep commitment to addressing racial, economic, climate, and gender justice, and she is particularly passionate about how these critical areas intersect.
At the Washington Environmental Council, Becky's roles have evolved significantly, reflecting her unwavering dedication and growing influence within the organization. Starting as an office manager, she rapidly ascended to key leadership positions, including Policy Associate, Campaign Director, Deputy Director, and ultimately, President. Her trajectory within the council showcases her ability to learn and adapt, which is essential in the ever-evolving landscape of environmental policy.
In her most recent role as Senior Policy Advisor for Climate at the Washington State Office of the Governor, Becky applied her profound knowledge of climate issues to shape impactful policies at the state level. This pivotal position allowed her to work closely with government leaders and influence key initiatives aimed at promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Education and Achievements
Becky Kelley holds a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in International Studies, graduating magna cum laude from the University of Oregon's prestigious Robert D. Clark Honors College. This solid educational foundation provided her with a global perspective and a strong understanding of the multifaceted issues related to social justice, climate change, and policy-making.
Throughout her career, Becky has honed a diverse set of skills that make her an exemplary leader in the environmental sector. Her superpowers include a deep listening ability that fosters understanding among diverse stakeholders. She is adept at sifting through complex information to create clarity, aiding decision-making processes in high-stakes environments. Becky's strategic mindset equips her to develop comprehensive approaches that not only address current challenges but also anticipate future shifts in the political and ecological landscape.
Moreover, her experience leading diverse coalitions demonstrates her talent for bringing together various groups, including labor unions, community organizations, and business leaders, under a unified vision. This skill is vital for achieving sustainable change, as it requires navigating complex dynamics and ensuring that all voices are heard and respected.
Achievements
Among Becky's most notable achievements is her success in coalition-building and facilitation, where she has effectively galvanized support around significant initiatives for climate and environmental justice. Her non-profit management acumen has allowed her to steer organizations through transitions while maintaining a focus on mission-driven outcomes.
In her pursuit of systemic change, Becky has consistently engaged in anti-racist organizational strategies, advocating for inclusive policies that rectify historical injustices. Her ability to navigate foundation and donor relations has been instrumental in securing necessary funding that drives initiatives forward. Additionally, her media and public communication skills have empowered her to raise awareness and mobilize communities around urgent environmental issues.
Becky's leadership style emphasizes the importance of staff management and development, nurturing a culture of growth and collaboration within her teams. By building relationships based on trust and respect with colleagues and stakeholders, she has fostered an environment conducive to open dialogue and collective action.
As Becky Kelley embarks on new challenges, she brings with her an exceptional breadth of experience and a heartfelt commitment to effecting positive change in the realms of environmental and climate justice. With her unique ability to embrace complexity and work effectively in ambiguous situations, Becky is poised to continue her impactful journey, advocating for justice while creating coalitions that can adapt to and thrive amidst the challenges of our times.
