Hello!
I’m thrilled to introduce myself as the new Executive Director of Groundwork Center for Resilient Communities. I’m honored to have the trust of the Board of Directors, our staff, and especially Hans Voss, our incomparable outgoing Executive Director.
I came to Groundwork because I believe this remarkable organization is uniquely positioned to meet this moment—for the planet, for our communities, and for our children. Our work has never been more important than it is right now. We are building a healthy, resilient Michigan that is pushing forward renewable energy development, getting nutritious food into schools and food pantries, and promoting sustainable transportation across our beautiful state. In a time of national upheaval and political uncertainty, it’s crucial that Michigan stay focused on building resilient communities and a strong economy, and protecting the natural resources that make this a great place to live, raise a family, and build a career. It is an honor to return to my home state and dig in, with you, to defend the progress we’ve made, find new opportunities, and amplify our work.
For as long as I can remember, I’ve felt a responsibility to lead on environmental issues. I grew up in Michigan, inspired by the grandeur of the Great Lakes. I learned to ski at Boyne Mountain. My dad was in the auto industry, and on Sundays we watched Barry Sanders own the field with the Lions. After college, I went west to the Rocky Mountains, but eventually returned East, where I did my graduate work in environmental science and earned a Ph.D. in natural resources. I’ve spent parts of my career in academia, the private sector, and nonprofit organizations. I’ve worked as a mountain instructor with NOLS, a farm educator with school children, a college professor, a sustainable energy consultant, and most recently as the Director of Sustainability at the University of Vermont.
In the coming weeks and months you’ll learn more about me, but also about our vision as an organization. Along with you, we will address this consequential and chaotic political landscape by holding fast to science and the promise of sustainable solutions—solutions that can unify our communities. We need your support to continue and elevate this work. You have my commitment and the commitment of our entire organization to stay sharply focused on the outcomes we need for a healthy, resilient Michigan. With our brilliant, strategic staff and our devoted supporters, we can rise to this moment. We must.
I look forward to working with you! 
Elizabeth Palchak
Executive Director
elizabeth.palchak@groundworkcenter.org
