BIRMINGHAM, Ala. —  GASP is announcing the departure of Executive Director Michael Hansen, who is moving on to pursue new opportunities after 10 years of employment with the clean air nonprofit. Hansen has been the Executive Director of the organization since October 2015, after two and a half years as Communications Specialist. Under Hansen’s visionary leadership, the organization has achieved remarkable growth and made significant strides in fulfilling its mission.

Board President Richard Rice expressed the sentiment shared by the entire GASP community: “It is a bittersweet transition, but we are optimistic and enthusiastic to move forward. Hansen has left an indelible mark on our organization, and we are deeply grateful for the transformative impact of his leadership.”

“It has been the honor and privilege of a lifetime to lead GASP and work with the communities it serves for the past 10 and a half years,” said Hansen. “I am so excited about the future of this organization and what’s possible for the people of Birmingham. I have no doubt that GASP’s best days are ahead.”

As Hansen embarks on his next chapter, GASP remains committed to building upon the foundation he laid. “We extend our heartfelt thanks to Hansen for his unwavering dedication and profound impact,” said Rice. “As we embrace this new chapter, we are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and the continued growth of GASP.”

Co-Deputy Directors Jilisa Milton and Latrice Dudley will assume leadership of the organization. GASP will continue educating and organizing frontline communities around the harmful effects of air pollution, enhancing environmental justice through legal and policy advocacy, and working with partners to implement strategic campaigns.

GASP has specific goals to expand its AirWatch program, which focuses on connecting community science to civic public participation. Expanding on the work GASP has done to engage primarily impacted community members after the Moody Landfill fire, the organization will continue to advocate for more appropriate regulations that keep communities safe.

A key aspect in GASP’s work moving forward is to continue using litigation strategies that hold polluters accountable by ensuring that Bluestone Coke complies with its consent order, and remaining responsive to opportunities for new legal actions that benefit the greater Birmingham area.

For more information, contact Jilisa Milton at [email protected], Latrice Dudley at [email protected], or Richard Rice at 205-618-8733.

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GASP is a nonprofit organization that aims to advance healthy air and environmental justice in the Greater Birmingham area through education, advocacy, and collaboration. We strive to reduce exposure to air pollution, educate the public on the health risks associated with poor air quality, and encourage community leaders to serve as role models by advocating for clean air and clean energy. gaspgroup.org