Conservation Law Foundation names new R.I. leader

PROVIDENCE – A longtime environmental advocate with economic development expertise will take the helm of the Conservation Law Foundation’s Rhode Island office.

CLF in a press release on Thursday named Darrèll Brown as director of its Rhode Island state office and advocacy efforts, following results of a national search. Brown, who immediately prior served as the economic development director for Charles County, Maryland, has also spent several years working in Rhode Island. Former positions include the director of state and local relations for Brown University, economic development director for the city of Cranston, chief of staff to then-Attorney General Sheldon Whitehouse and a policy adviser to former Gov. Lincoln Almond, the release stated. 

“Darrèll has been an unflagging advocate working to uplift underserved communities for years,” Bradley Campbell, president of Conservation Law Foundation, said in a statement. “His unique experience at the intersection of economic development and environmental issues makes him an excellent fit to lead CLF’s advocacy in Rhode Island during this critical time. He will be a positive force in the community, and we’re thrilled to have him at CLF.”

Brown fills the position vacated by Amy Moses, who left the organization in March, according to spokesman Jake O’Neill. Meg Curran, a senior attorney for CLF, had been serving as interim director.

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Brown highlighted the importance of bringing environmental policies in the state “up to reality” and addressing environmental racism – an increasing focus among state lawmakers and advocates.

“It’s no mistake or coincidence that incinerators and power plants are placed in poor and minority communities and that those residents get sick and die at higher rates,” Brown said in a statement. “I’m eager to get to work supporting these communities and pushing for meaningful changes in the state house and the courtroom.”

Brown has a law degree from Howard University School of Law and a bachelor’s degree from American University.

Nancy Lavin is a PBN staff writer. You may reach her at LAvin@PBN.com.