As the Executive Director of the Green Infrastructure Leadership Exchange, Barbara Hopkins brings over 15 years of dedicated experience in nonprofit environmental leadership, coupled with a robust background in higher education administration. Under her stewardship, the Exchange has become a pivotal force in mobilizing local...
As the Executive Director of the Green Infrastructure Leadership Exchange, Barbara Hopkins brings over 15 years of dedicated experience in nonprofit environmental leadership, coupled with a robust background in higher education administration. Under her stewardship, the Exchange has become a pivotal force in mobilizing local governments and water agencies across the U.S. and Canada to implement Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) equitably. Barbara’s expertise in climate change mitigation and sustainability is instrumental in guiding the organization’s mission to foster resilient communities through innovative green practices.
Barbara is currently spearheading several key projects that focus on enhancing collaboration among municipalities and water agencies, promoting best practices in GSI implementation, and ensuring that marginalized communities benefit from these initiatives. Her strategic vision is complemented by her extensive experience in fundraising, marketing, and institutional research, which she honed during her tenure as Vice President at a community college. This multifaceted background enables her to effectively engage stakeholders, advocate for legislative support, and secure funding for critical environmental projects.
In addition to her leadership role, Barbara is committed to staff development and training, recognizing that empowering team members is essential for driving impactful change. Her analytical skills and proficiency in program evaluation allow her to assess the effectiveness of various initiatives, ensuring that the Exchange remains at the forefront of the green infrastructure movement. With a keen focus on qualitative research, Barbara is dedicated to understanding community needs and fostering inclusive practices that promote sustainability and resilience in the face of climate challenges.
