Statement from Boma Brown West, Chair of the Board of Directors, Women’s Voices for the Earth  

As many of you are aware, Women’s Voices for the Earth (WVE) has been undergoing an exciting chapter of transformation and growth. I’m honored to be a part of this transition and am excited to share that I’ve accepted the role of Chair of the Board for my upcoming term.   

This year marks WVE’s 30th anniversary, a significant milestone that celebrates three decades of bold advocacy and transformative work. It comes at a pivotal moment in our journey, as we prepare to embrace a new name, a refreshed identity, and a renewed commitment to our mission.  

Our Board of Directors is more energized than ever to help lead WVE forward during this exciting and momentous time.  

I follow in the footsteps of Dr. Nicole Acevedo, whose visionary leadership as WVE’s board chair over the past two years, along with her deep commitment to environmental health and justice, has made a lasting impact on our organization. I’m deeply grateful for her service and guidance. 

In addition to Nicole’s departure, we are also saying “see you later” to another cherished member of the WVE family and board who has reached the end of the three consecutive terms permitted in our bylaws: Monica Schrock. Monica has spent the past six years with WVE, bringing an unwavering dedication, a deep commitment to our mission, and their expertise in communications and messaging to every conversation and decision.  Their presence on the board has been thoughtful and deeply committed to justice. Monica’s contributions and support have strengthened WVE in profound and lasting ways. We are deeply thankful for their time, leadership, and care.  

WVE’s Treasurer Karen Wang has also come to the end of her term. Karen’s background in communications, sustainability and nonprofit management have all benefited the organization. We’re grateful to Karen for her leadership and for willingly stepping into the Treasurer’s role when WVE’s previous Treasurer transitioned into a staff role. 

While we will genuinely miss the insight and leadership of Nicole, Karen and Monica, we are equally excited to welcome three new board members: Andrea Braswell, Elisa Ortiz and Laurel Royer. Andrea, Elisa and Laurel bring a wealth of expertise, bold vision, and a shared commitment to environmental health and justice. Their voices and perspectives will be instrumental as we usher in a new chapter at WVE, building on our powerful legacy while embracing new opportunities. 

I look forward to working alongside our board, staff, and the WVE community as we move into this next phase. Together, we will continue to center the voices of those most impacted, hold corporations and policymakers accountable, and build toward a just, healthy, and toxic-free future.   

With deep appreciation, 
Boma Brown West  
Chair, Board of Directors  
Women’s Voices for the Earth