Ohio Environmental Council announces Carol Kauffman as new Executive Director

Ohio Environmental Council, February 15, 2023

Columbus, OH — The Ohio Environmental Council (OEC) announced today that it has selected Carol Kauffman, a proven environmental and social responsibility leader, as its new executive director. She will start in early March.

“As a Buckeye, born and raised, I’m thrilled at the opportunity to lead this organization into its next chapter. I’m passionate about the OEC’s mission and excited to get to work with a world-class team of staff and partners in pursuit of healthy air, land, and water for all who call Ohio home,” said Kauffman.

Kauffman brings more than two decades of nonprofit and corporate experience advocating for environmental, community, and social justice issues as well as directing sustainability programs and strategies. From 2013 to 2017, Kauffman worked in the nonprofit sector in Cambodia where she designed development projects, helped businesses develop more responsible practices, and responded to natural disasters in the region. Since 2017, Kauffman has led environmental and social responsibility efforts within the corporate sector at The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, and most recently, at Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. Within these positions, she devised sustainability strategies, led philanthropic efforts, and engaged with a diverse array of stakeholders — including a nationwide network of environmental partners.

“Carol is a passionate and purpose-driven leader with a proven track record of building strong relationships to secure healthier and more just communities,” said OEC Board President Rich Shank. “We are thrilled to start this new chapter for the OEC under Carol’s leadership.”

Kauffman will also serve as the president of the OEC Action Fund, the OEC’s 501(c)(4) sibling organization.

“Carol’s experience with local organizing, coalition building, and bringing diverse stakeholders together will be a major asset to our mission of growing the political power of the environmental movement in Ohio,” said OEC Action Fund Board Chairperson John Marshall.

Kauffman currently volunteers as a member of the City of Bexley’s Environmental Sustainability Advisory Council and is a founding board member of the Ohio Water Partnership. She previously served as a member of the OEC Board of Directors. Kauffman holds a bachelor’s degree from Taylor University and a master’s degree from Eastern University.

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The Ohio Environmental Council (OEC) is the state’s most comprehensive and effective environmental advocate for a healthier, more sustainable Ohio. The OEC develops and ensures the implementation of forward-thinking, science-based, pragmatic solutions to secure healthy air, land, and water for all who call Ohio home.

The OEC Action Fund, a 501(c)(4) organization, seeks to protect and enhance the environment, economic viability, and health of all Ohio communities by expanding access to public lands, advancing critical environmental priorities, holding policy makers accountable, and electing environmental champions.