Willamette Riverkeeper (WRK) is proud to announce a transformative step forward with the appointment of Michelle Emmons and Heather King as Co-Executive Directors and Upper and Lower Willamette Riverkeepers. This innovative co-leadership model represents a heartfelt commitment to collaboration, community engagement, and environmental stewardship across the Willamette River Basin.
This change isn’t just about leadership roles; it’s about embodying the values of inclusivity, partnership, and shared responsibility that are at the heart of WRK’s mission. By embracing a co-leadership approach, WRK is forging a new path in environmental advocacy—one that honors the interconnectedness of our communities, our ecosystems, and our shared vision for a thriving Willamette River.
Michelle Emmons, a familiar face to the Upper Willamette community, brings a wealth of experience in community engagement, policy advocacy, and strategic leadership. Her work has always been about more than just protecting water quality; it’s been about fostering a deeper relationship between people and the river that sustains them. “I am honored to continue my journey with Willamette Riverkeeper, helping to amplify community voices and expand our impact through meaningful partnerships and more collaborative programming,” Michelle shares.
Emmonswill lead financial operations, advocacy, and community engagement in the Upper Willamette, where she has built strong relationships and spearheaded initiatives focused on clean water advocacy, river recreation, habitat conservation, and partnership development. Michelle’s focus in her new position will include strategic planning, legislative policy, communications, and Willamette Water Trail enhancements. Her leadership in the Upper Willamette will continue to inspire stewardship and enhance community connections.
Heather King, known for her unwavering dedication to urban conservation and restoration, joins WRK after leading the Columbia Slough Watershed Council. Heather’s passion for environmental justice and community empowerment has shaped her vision for a more inclusive and resilient Willamette River Basin. “I believe that healthy ecosystems and healthy communities go hand in hand. This co-leadership model allows us to build bridges—literally and figuratively—that connect people to the river and each other,” Heather reflects.
Kingwill lead urban conservation policy, restoration initiatives, and community engagement in the Lower Willamette, leveraging her extensive experience in urban environmental advocacy and restoration. Heather’s leadership will drive initiatives addressing Superfund cleanup, industrial development, restoration program oversight, and environmental justice. Her expertise in donor engagement and corporate sponsorship cultivation will strengthen community partnerships and expand WRK’s impact in the Lower Willamette.
Together, Emmons and King are not just sharing leadership; they are co-creating a vision for the future of the Willamette River. Their partnership is built on trust, transparency, and a shared passion for advocacy and education. By embracing each other’s strengths, they are setting a powerful example of collaborative leadership that celebrates diversity of thought and honors the voices of all community members.
This new chapter of co-leadership at Willamette Riverkeeper is about more than strategic planning or program oversight—it’s about creating a culture of stewardship that resonates deeply with everyone who loves the Willamette River. “We are committed to nurturing an inclusive, equitable space for dialogue, decision-making, and action,” they affirm.
The WRK Board of Directors is confident that this co-leadership model will inspire new partnerships, enhance community engagement, and deepen WRK’s impact across the Willamette River Basin. “Michelle and Heather’s combined vision, experience, and passion for the river are exactly what our community needs to face the environmental challenges of today and tomorrow,” Cathy Tortorici, Board President, stated.
To learn more about Michelle and Heather’s journey and vision for Willamette Riverkeeper, visit www.willametterivekeeper.org
About Willamette Riverkeeper:
Willamette Riverkeeper is dedicated to protecting and restoring the Willamette River’s water quality and habitat through advocacy, education, and outreach. Guided by the belief that a healthy river system is essential for all life, WRK empowers communities to be stewards of their natural resources.
This announcement celebrates the spirit of community, collaboration, and hope. It is an invitation to all who cherish the Willamette River to join this journey of stewardship, connection, and leadership.
Together, we will protect what we love.
