Dan Fingas
After a thorough executive search, Vermont Conservation Voters (VCV) announced today that Dan Fingas has been selected as the organization’s new executive director. Fingas will officially begin his role on January 6th, 2025.
VCV is excited for this new chapter, as it builds on its mission to both elect environmental champions and pass meaningful environmental legislation. VCV also celebrates departing executive director, Lauren Hierl, and her decade of work growing the organization to become a leading player in environmental advocacy in Vermont. Hierl was named executive director of Vermont Natural Resources Council (VNRC) in August.
Fingas has served as VNRC’s climate action coordinator since October 2023. Stepping into the VCV executive director role, Fingas brings his experience in advocacy, electoral campaigns, organizing, and working in diverse organizations. Fingas previously served as movement politics director and organizing director at Rights and Democracy in Vermont. Before that, Fingas spent more than a decade in nonprofit leadership, electoral campaigns, and union organizing in Michigan and New York.
In addition to his work experience, Fingas currently serves on the Plainfield Selectboard and as president of Plainfield Arts. Leading with a passion for building a sustainable, equitable future for all Vermonters, he has demonstrated his dedication to community engagement. When the 2024 floods hit, Fingas stepped up and coordinated volunteer activities for the Town of Plainfield and continues to lead in the ongoing response and recovery.
Fingas stated, “We are entering a new political reality both nationally and in this state, but we have to continue to lead with long-term climate solutions that ensure no Vermonter is left behind. I am excited to bring my experience and skills to tackle our current political challenges and continue to ensure this vital organization plays a leadership role in Vermont.”
VCV Board of Directors chair, Kelly Coleman, reflected, “The board did a thorough search and we are excited about the depth and breadth of Dan’s organizing and leadership experience.”
“Dan is a collaborative leader with a strong track record of bringing Vermonters together to create meaningful change,” said Hierl. “VCV is in excellent hands as we navigate a challenging political climate, and work to elect strong leaders and advocate for policies that will create a healthier and more resilient Vermont.”
VCV’s board, staff, and partner organizations are excited to usher in a new chapter of growth. During this time of transition, VCV is grateful to all who support their mission to elect environmentally-friendly candidates to public office, and hold elected officials accountable for the decisions they make affecting our air, water, wildlife, land, communities, and health.