Jeff Wise
Jeff Wise joined HEFN as its Program Director in 2015, becoming Director of Strategic Programs in 2017 to lead the organization’s issue related work. From toxics to fracking and from drinking water to climate change and health, Jeff directs HEFN’s events and programs in these areas and helps HEFN members collaborate on strategy.
Jeff comes to HEFN with deep experience in environmental policy and advocacy. After having served as associate director of global environmental affairs at the White House, Jeff was the policy director for the National Environmental Trust where he managed many of the organization’s environmental health campaigns. Most recently, Jeff directed several environmental projects at the Pew Charitable Trusts, and he directed the nonprofit and foundation advocacy training program at the Alliance for Justice.
Jeff holds a J.D. from Stanford Law School, an M.A. in natural resource economics from Stanford, and a B.A. in English Literature from Brown.
The environmental health and justice successes I’ve seen and sometimes participated in came about because ordinary people learned often complex scientific concepts, reached out to their neighbors and fellow citizens, and made sure their concerns were heard by decisionmakers in government or business. Environmental health and justice issues so often connect the head, the heart, and the voice—the elements that are the very essence of good advocacy and a vibrant democracy.
Every day I get to work on issues related to science, economics, ethics, and law. I also get to work every day with people who are passionate about helping people and the environment. There’s no way to get bored or uninspired by that.
Chasing after my two kids and exercising (mostly so that I’m able to chase after my kids).
You have ideas about ways to advance philanthropic strategy on environmental health and justice issues.