By Anne Hedges
The old phrase (of debated origin) sums up life at MEIC. There have been so many moments over my 32 years at MEIC when I said to myself, “We have the best staff ever.” MEIC has a knack for attracting great people to our staff and to the board. Both make the organization stronger, healthier, and a whole lot more fun.
At the end of 2024, I was again reflecting on how fortunate we are to have such an amazing staff and how I deeply appreciate what each and every one of them contributes to the betterment of Montana, the planet, and our office. Then came the gut punch. Cari Kimball, my co-director, was leaving MEIC to work for another wonderful organization in Montana. She wanted to do something new and work on one of her long-time passions: human rights issues. It was bittersweet. The world needs more people like Cari – light-hearted and tenacious, and completely committed to doing her part to leave the world a better place.
Her departure at the beginning of the Legislative Session caused a bit of a scramble and some reshuffling of staff duties. The timing wasn’t perfect… but then again, it never is. MEIC was fortunate to hire Denise Roth Barber to step into Cari’s role as MEIC’s fundraiser. I’ve known Denise since her days at the Northern Plains Resource Council where she fought SO2 pollution from Billings-area refineries. Many MEIC members know her because she previously worked for the State developing its climate plan.
Thankfully, other staff stepped up to pick up Cari’s remaining duties. Most notably, Julie Wintersteen stepped into a new position as Chief Financial Officer, helping ensure MEIC stays legal and your investment in MEIC stays safe. Julie’s willingness to step up was a huge relief and ensured continuity in the business side of MEIC’s operations.
Together, Julie, Katy Spence (our master of communications, strategy and outreach) and Derf Johnson (our workhorse who oversees litigation, mining, clean water, and so much more) will join me as part of a management team to help keep the organization strong, legal, mission-driven and working toward justice for all.
This amazing group of coworkers makes it much easier for me to step into the role of Executive Director. While I intend to maintain the organization’s fiscal health and internal strength, I will also maintain much of my advocacy work, because that is my passion. I also believe it is essential to empower our newest staff to become enduring leaders in realizing MEIC’s mission. Finally, I will be forever grateful to our founders – especially Robin Tawney-Nichols and Phil Tawney, and Len and Sandy Sargent. It is our job to keep their vision of MEIC alive.
Together, we can and will face some tough years ahead with determination, persistence and laughter. We are privileged to do the job you — our members — have given us. Thank you for believing in us and helping to keep us strong in these tough headwinds.
This article was published in the March 2025 issue of Down To Earth.
