Resources for the Future Names New Board Members
The research organization appointed two climate policy veterans to its board during its 75th anniversary launch.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in People
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Resources for the Future has appointed Jane Flegal and Jeff Holmstead to its board of directors to provide expertise in energy and climate policy. This announcement coincides with the launch of the organization's 75th anniversary celebrations.
Why it matters
The board additions are intended to strengthen the strategic mission of the organization as it focuses on energy and climate policy research. These appointments bring high-level experience from both the Office of Domestic Climate Policy and the US Environmental Protection Agency.
Resources for the Future has launched a fundraising campaign with a target of $7.5 million. These funds are intended to support research and programming initiatives over the next year.
The players
Jane Flegal
She previously served as the Senior Director for Industrial Emissions at the Office of Domestic Climate Policy.
Jeff Holmstead
He formerly served as the Assistant Administrator for Air and Radiation at the US Environmental Protection Agency.
Resources for the Future
This Washington, DC-based research organization focuses on energy, environmental, and natural resource issues.
The details
The board appointments were confirmed during a recent meeting in Washington, DC. The new members bring extensive backgrounds in regulatory affairs and industrial emissions policy.
Timeline
1990: Passage of the Clean Air Act Amendments.
October 22, 2026: Announcement of new board members and anniversary launch.
Next year: Resources for the Future 75th anniversary commemorations.
Market Landscape
The appointments align with a broader industry trend of integrating former government officials into non-profit leadership to navigate complex regulatory environments. This strategy positions the organization to remain influential as energy policy debates continue to evolve at the national level.
The changes to the board of directors will not have an immediate effect on the average consumer or retail shopper. However, the outcomes of the new research supported by the $7.5 million fundraiser may influence future energy policy and utility costs.
The takeaway
The addition of seasoned policy experts suggests that the organization intends to focus heavily on the intersection of industrial emissions and regulatory compliance. Supporters should look for new research publications in the coming months as the anniversary campaign progresses.
Further reading
For more information on organizational leadership changes, visit People.
More information
View complete details regarding the anniversary initiative on the RFF 75th anniversary information page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Resources for the Future.
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Should nonprofit research groups prioritize private sector experience when appointing members to their governing boards?
