Sustainable Saratoga is pleased to announce that Wendy Mahaney has been promoted to the position of Executive Director. Wendy became Sustainable Saratoga’s first paid staff member in 2017, when she signed on as manager of the organization. As the scope of her roles and responsibilities has grown, so has her title.

Wendy has a Bachelor’s degree in Natural Resources from Cornell University, a Master’s degree in Ecology from Penn State University, and a PhD in Plant Biology and ecology from Michigan State University. She worked as an environmental consultant for five years before moving to Saratoga, where she was a Visiting Assistant Professor of Environmental Studies and Sciences at Skidmore College before taking the helm at Sustainable Saratoga.

“We could not be happier to have captured the talent and attention of such a high-caliber professional to promote the mission of Sustainable Saratoga,” said Art Holmberg, chairman of the board of directors. “Wendy has more than 20 years of experience in ecology and environmental science. Her skills have propelled our efforts forward, and her dedication and expertise have been instrumental in significantly expanding our reach over the past two years.”

During Wendy’s tenure, Sustainable Saratoga has been able to launch a variety of new initiatives, including:

  • The Sustainability Fair in collaboration with Skidmore College
  • A kid-friendly Science Fair in collaboration with the Saratoga Springs Public Library (SSPL) and the Children’s Museum at Saratoga
  • Repair Café events in collaboration with the SSPL
  • Monthly Science on Tap speaker events, in collaboration with Skidmore and SPAC

Wendy has also expanded the scope of many existing programs and efforts, including the annual Saratoga Recycles Day, Tree Toga, and backyard composting events. She has been instrumental in establishing or strengthening collaborations with many organizations in the area as well, including Pitney Meadows Community Farm and the City of Saratoga Springs.

In her expanded position, Wendy will continue her responsibilities as Sustainable Saratoga’s main administrator, overseeing all programs and projects, and facilitating the four committees carrying out Sustainable Saratoga’s four-pronged strategic plan: climate & energy, land use, zero waste, and urban forestry. Other key duties include ongoing outreach with community and governmental organizations, marketing and communication, and support for a variety of fundraising activities.

“Working with Sustainable Saratoga these past few years has been such a rewarding experience,” Wendy said. “This small organization is filled with so many amazing people who are committed to making our community a more sustainable place to live. I am proud to contribute my experience and skills to further the mission of this great organization, and I am honored by their recognition of my efforts.”