SWANA Leadership Update

SWANA has announced Chief Executive Officer/Executive Director Amy Lestition Burke’s upcoming departure as Executive Director of the Solid Waste Association of North America.  

Amy joined SWANA in November of 2023, and during those three years, Amy has been a change agent for SWANA, leading the organization through a period of transition and helping to rebuild the membership into a connected, engaged community. Under her leadership, SWANA successfully launched RCon®, its new flagship conference and a first-of-its-kind event built by and for members, while she traveled extensively to chapters across North America to stand alongside members and champion the vital work of the solid waste and resource management industry.

She elevated SWANA’s voice nationally, forged new partnerships across the industry, and helped position both the organization and its members as leaders others look to. We are grateful for her leadership, dedication, and the many contributions she has made to both SWANA and the solid waste industry. We sincerely thank Amy for her service and wish her every success in her future endeavors. 

SWANA will be conducting a national search for its new Executive Director. SWANA will be searching for a leader who continues to make meaningful progress in implementing its strategic plan and advancing the four key goals that will shape the future of our association and industry:  prioritizing safety, championing progress on sustainability, promoting professional development opportunities, and delivering exceptional value to members. 

SWANA's Vice President of Industry Engagement, Carolyn Muller, has graciously agreed to act as Acting CEO while the Board conducts a national search for the association's next CEO. The Board has full confidence in Carolyn’s ability to lead SWANA during this time of transition. Our goal is to have a new CEO in place by the end of the year, while ensuring we take the time necessary to identify the right leader for SWANA's future. 

The Board of Directors recognizes that SWANA's success is made possible by the dedication of our members, chapter leaders, volunteers, partners, sponsors, and other stakeholders. We appreciate your continued support and confidence during this transition. If you have any questions, please contact the SWANA Officers at officers@swana.org. 

SWANA Board Officers:

• President: Lynsey Baer
• Vice President: Kevin Roche
• Treasurer: John Welch
• Secretary: Hailey Tatum
• Past President: Elizabeth Roe