Joan Crooks

Biographical Information

"Joan is the Chief Executive Officer of both Washington Conservation Voters and our close partner, Washington Environmental Council, lending her experience as a long-time leader in Washington's environmental community to both organizations. Joan started working at WEC in 1992 and has served as Executive Director since 1995. Joan was instrumental in developing the now nationally-recognized Environmental Priorities Coalition, the successful collaborative of over 20 groups that works together for strong state environmental protections. Joan is often sought out for her insight and judgment on environmental issues by state policy makers, other advocacy groups, and foundations. Her guidance and vision have helped WEC combine its 40 years of experience with innovative strategies resulting in strong environmental protections for Washington state. Prior to joining WEC, Joan served as Administrative Director of Earth Share of Washington. Joan has a bachelor's degree in chemistry from Middlebury College, as well as a master's degree in public administration from the University of Washington Evans School of Public Affairs. She has served on numerous boards including Sierra Club Seattle Inner City Outings, the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Coalition, the State Environmental Leadership Program, and two terms as Board President for ONE/Northwest (now Groundwire). In addition to working for environmental protection, Joan also enjoys spending lots of time outside, especially hiking with her husband Don or racing her kids down the slopes."