Montana Conservation Voters hires program director, legislative lead

Montana Conservation Voters and the MCV Education Fund on Monday announced the hiring of Whitner Chase to serve as the organizations’ new program director.

Chase brings four years of experience to MCV from the Wyss Foundation, where he managed grants to protect land in Africa and Australia.

“Whitner’s experience and his familiarity with the American West - and how to protect our most important places - are incredibly valuable to MCV,” said Whitney Tawney, the Executive Director of Montana Conservation Voters. “We’re lucky to bring Whitner and his expertise on board as he’ll make MCV and the MCV Education Fund even stronger.” 

Chase will serve as MCV’s lead public policy advocate, supporting the organization’s work during the 67th session of the Montana Legislature in Helena. Among other things, he will ensure ensure Montana’s budget aligns with Montana’s conservation values.

He also specializes in communications, and will help implement strategic plans, annual organizational work plans and budgets to serve MCV’s strategic vision.

“MCV is an important organization on the leading edge of protecting our state’s environment, climate, public lands and voting rights,” Chase said. “And I’m looking forward to being part of a team that understands the importance of educating and engaging Montanans, and holding all elected decision-makers accountable to our values.”