Reconnecting to Our Waterways names new Director
INDIANAPOLIS – Reconnecting to Our Waterways (ROW), a collective impact initiative that works to improve Indianapolis’s waterways, has named Julie Rhodes as the new Collective Impact Director for the organization. Rhodes joins the group with nearly 30 years of experience in advancing sustainability, waste reduction, water and air quality, green space development, environmental justice and more.
“I’m excited to work with ROW and its partner organizations towards an improved, sustainable environment,” Rhodes said. “My goal here is to create connections and efforts that will positively impact the local community, improving the quality of life along our waterways and increasing the importance of water resources in surrounding neighborhoods.”
Rhodes has a long professional history of working for local and state government, including the City of Indianapolis’ Department of Public Works and Office of Sustainability, at the Indiana Department of Commerce; and with several national and statewide not-for-profit groups, including the Indiana Association of Solid Waste Management Districts and the National Furniture Bank Association. As a sustainability consultant over the past 15 years, she has initiated strategic planning, education and project management for many companies, organizations and government agencies, including Cummins, the Indiana Recycling Coalition, the Marion County Soil and Water Conservation District, the Hoosier Environmental Council and with the Martindale Brightwood Environmental Justice Collaborative. She has also led grassroots community efforts as a founding member of the Indy Food Cooperative/Pogue’s Run Grocer and for the Cottage Home Neighborhood Association, where she served on the ROW Waterway Committee for Pogue’s Run.
In her new position, Rhodes will provide leadership at ROW, directing the organization’s internal and external functions to ensure that continual progress is made towards the group’s strategic plan, goals and objectives. Acting as a public ambassador for the organization, Rhodes will lead ROW in their pursuit to create positive change in the quality of life and ecology in Indianapolis communities.
“We are thrilled to welcome Julie to the ROW team and to work with her on future projects,” said David Forsell, co-chair of the ROW steering committee. “Her experience and desire to make an impact on the well-being of the Indianapolis community will serve as an asset and contribute to the progress that’s already been made in improving our environment.”
ROW is appreciative of Kelly Brown, who served as interim Director since January. Brown will continue in the role metric and program management.