Currents

Water Foundation Congratulates Wade Crowfoot

News
January 11, 2019
Wade Crowfoot
Wade Crowfoot, California Department of Water Resources.

Media Contact:

Niketa Kumar

nkumar@waterfdn.org

(510) 900-8866

Water Foundation CEO Wade Crowfoot appointed by Governor Gavin Newsom to serve as Secretary of the California Natural Resources Agency

SACRAMENTO – Today, Water Foundation CEO Wade Crowfoot was appointed by Governor Gavin Newsom to serve as Secretary of the California Natural Resources Agency. In his new position, Wade will help advance lasting water solutions that work for communities, the economy, and the environment, including key Water Foundation priorities such as sustainable groundwater management and clean and safe drinking water for all Californians.

Statement from David Beckman, chair of the Water Foundation Board of Directors and president of the Pisces Foundation:

“With a board that includes water leaders from California and the West, a similarly impressive and dedicated staff, and sound and diverse revenue, the Water Foundation is well-positioned to continue helping its partners ensure safe and sufficient water for people and the environment. Wade’s appointment is a testament to the hard work of the Water Foundation and its grantees that has generated major victories for families and ecosystems in California. The Water Foundation board is immediately commencing a national search for a strong and visionary leader to maintain the Foundation’s forward momentum. We are excited for this new chapter of the Water Foundation as we wish Wade well in his next endeavor.”

Statement from Wade Crowfoot:

“It has been one of the highlights of my career to serve as the Water Foundation’s CEO, and I accepted Governor Newsom’s appointment with the full confidence that the Water Foundation today is stronger than ever. To solve our most urgent water and environmental problems, we need the hard work, creativity and passion of the Water Foundation and its partners. I will be rooting for the Foundation’s continued success and growth.”

The Water Foundation board has created a search committee led by Susan Bell, board member and principal of Susan Bell & Associates, to attract and identify a great future leader. Search committee members also include David Beckman, WELL Water Education for Latino Leaders CEO Celeste Cantú, and Denver Water CEO Jim Lochhead. The Water Foundation’s senior management team will continue to drive and oversee the day-to-day operations and programs. The leadership team includes Director of Programs & Strategy Jennifer Sokolove, Director of Strategic Partnerships Nikki Verhoff, and Director of Operations & Finance Lizette Leclerc.