Regna Merritt (left) celebrates the denial of the Tesoro oil-by-rail terminal in Vancouver, WA (Image: The Columbian)
For the past seven years, we have had the immense privilege of working alongside Regna Merritt, who has built and directed the Healthy Climate Program at Oregon Physicians for Social Responsibility. Not only has Regna amassed the formidable group of over 100 health professionals and public health advocates that comprise our Healthy Climate Action Team, but she has also been a recognized leader in numerous coalitions that have won major victories in preventing new fossil fuel infrastructure in the Pacific Northwest and in preserving a healthy climate.
So it is with tremendous gratitude that we share the news that Regna is retiring from our staff at the end of June. Before you despair, please note that this is a transition, not an ending. We are thrilled that Regna has agreed to join the Oregon PSR Advisory Board and volunteer with us after a long and much-deserved vacation.
Regna leaves our Healthy Climate Program in the capable hands of Damon Motz-Storey, who has been on our team for the past three years, first as as our Quaker Voluntary Service Fellow and for the past two years as our Clean Energy Organizer. Damon will be taking on the Healthy Climate Program Director role and he, along with our newly hired Energy Justice Organizer, Lluvia Merello, are well poised to build on the strong foundation begun by Regna to bring the voice of health to the movement for climate justice.
Left to right: Regna Merritt, Damon Motz-Storey, and Lluvia Merello
As our team transitions, this is a moment to honor the incredible legacy that Regna has built for Oregon PSR and for the climate justice movement as a whole. We hope you will join us to celebrate Regna at a garden party! Join us for drinks, appetizers, and recognition of Regna’s incredible seven years on the Oregon PSR staff. We'll also have live music courtesy of artist Ben Graves.
What: A garden party and fundraiser to celebrate Regna!
When: Sunday, June 23rd, 3:00 - 6:00 PM
Where: At the home of Damon Motz-Storey in SE Portland near Mt. Tabor. RSVP for the address and directions.
Bring: Your stories about Regna and your donation to Oregon PSR in her honor.
Donations to Oregon PSR in honor of Regna will be gratefully accepted. Can’t make it to the party? You can donate online and be sure to leave a note about what Regna means to you.
Mark your calendars for Sunday, June 23rd to celebrate Regna with us!