Philly

The Energy Co-op names Divya Desai as new Executive Director

Energy Co-Op is the latest sustainability org to announce a leadership transition this year

The ‘great resignation’ has shifted many positions nationwide, and the local green scene has had many leadership transitions over the past year.

One transition for a local non-profit was in the works for a while: The Energy Co-Op announced that Divya Desai is the new Executive Director, following Ronald Fisher’s retirement. Desai joined the Energy Co-op in 2016 as the Membership and Data Manager and recently served as Associate Director. She brings a history of partnership development, program development and management, and Salesforce consulting.

Divya Desai
The Energy Co-op website

Other sustainability organizations have had leadership transitions in 2022. Green Building United appointed Rich Freeh as their new Executive Director in July. Freeh is an accomplished clean energy and climate policy change agent, bringing in prior experience from the Urban Sustainability Directors Network and the City of Philadelphia’s Office of Sustainability.

In August, the City of Philadelphia announced that Christine Knapp was stepping down as Director of the Office of Sustainability, and appointed Saleem Chapman as her successor in the role. Earlier this year, Devi Ramkissoon became the new Executive Director of the Sustainable Business Network.


Julie Hancher

Julie Hancher is Editor-in-Chief of Green Philly, sharing her expertise of all things sustainable in the city of brotherly love. She enjoys long walks in the park with local beer and greening her travels, cooking & cat, Sir Floofus Drake.

Recent Posts

Green Philly Podcast Receives $27,500 Grant from Independence Public Media Foundation

The awarded project was a part of the 2024 Community Voices Fund grant recipients, with $800,000…

2 days ago

Community investments, coastal zone protections, sustainable fashion and more

Catch up on the latest sustainability news. Shapiro administration announces grant funding for hundreds of…

2 days ago

Zero Fare pilot delivered 4.3 million free rides in its first year

Zero Fare’s success highlights the importance of free public transit for underserved communities. For many…

4 days ago

Citywide cleanups, SEPTA troubles, solar procurement & more

Catch up on the latest sustainability news. October was exceptionally hot and dry. The average…

1 week ago

State Representative Chris Rabb wants you to start the sustainability journey where you are.

In our latest Civic Catalysts column, Rep Rabb talks nerding out about cool science, vertical…

1 week ago

Exploring Schuylkill Center’s accredited arboretum: a commitment to native trees

Discover native trees, urban ecology, and vibrant community engagement at Philadelphia’s newly acclaimed arboreal landmark.…

2 weeks ago