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Pesticide Action Network

Pesticide Action Network

PAN North America Announces New Interim Executive Director

Berkeley, CA – Pesticide Action Network (PAN) North America’s Board of Directors has announced the hiring of new Interim Executive Director Mary Vradelis, effective September 19. 2022.

“We are excited that we found just the right leader to address [PAN’s] needs,” said Kyle Powys Whyte, Board President. “I have already learned much from Mary’s wisdom, and I am looking forward to our work together this year as ‘team PAN’ continues its work to tackle the pesticide problem and take steps to establish a liberatory and viable food system.”

Mary brings 30 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, capacity-building, and management coaching and training. Over the past 16 years, she has served as an Interim Executive for 14 organizations from diverse sectors, including legal services, health and social services, education, the arts and the environment. Her most recent positions as the Interim Executive Director were at Grateful Heart Holistic Therapy Center, CLAM, and the Asian Pacific Institute for Gender-Based Violence. Mary has an Executive MBA (St. Mary’s College of CA) and a Master’s in Expressive Arts Therapy (Lesley University).

“I am honored to join PAN’s exceptional Board and Staff in order to support their mission to achieve health, resilience, and justice in food and farming,” said Vradelis. “I am impressed by not only all their accomplishments in their first 38 years, but the thoughtfulness, dedication and expertise that they bring to this important work.”

Vradelis will be replacing former Interim Executive Director Kyra Busch, who will be returning to her position on PAN’s Board of Directors after eight months supporting the organization in the interim leadership role.

“We are deeply grateful to Kyra for her willingness to serve as our Interim ED over the past eight months. Her leadership and support to PAN during this year of transition was vital, and we are glad to welcome her back to our board,” said Inanna Hazel, PAN’s Managing Director.

In the coming months, Mary will support the enrichment of PAN’s decision-making processes, strengthen management, and bridge the organization until they complete the next search for a permanent Executive Director, which will begin in the Spring of 2023.

Pesticide Action Network

Pesticide Action Network

Pesticide Action Network is dedicated to advancing alternatives to pesticides worldwide. Follow @pesticideaction

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