August 3, 2022
Western Resource Advocates, a nonprofit environmental advocacy organization serving seven states in the Interior West, today announced that Kathryne Grove has been named as its first-ever vice president of equity and culture, where she will work to address diversity and inclusion within the organization and the larger conservation movement.
With a focus on building a greater understanding among staff about the systemic inequities that have impacted communities’ land, air, rivers, and drinking water, Grove will champion WRA’s policy efforts that proactively combat climate change and advance equity throughout the West with WRA partners.
“Diversity and inclusion are a critical component of our strategy, vision, and commitment to making our environment and our communities healthier, safer, and more resilient,” said Jon Goldin-Dubois, president of Western Resource Advocates. “Kathryne’s extensive background in social work, law, and diversity, equity, and inclusion exemplifies the importance of advocacy and allyship that she has passionately stood for throughout her career. Her experience will help leverage our strength, policy creation, to drive equity. We couldn’t be more excited to have her walk this path with us to address the impacts of the climate crisis and environmental injustices.”
Grove’s career began in social work. Following law school, she worked as in-house counsel for a Fortune 500 corporation, as an employment attorney for the Colorado Department of Law and in private practice, as well as served as a staff attorney for the Supreme Court of the Federated States of Micronesia. She found her path to diversity, equity, and inclusion at the University of Denver, where she established its Title IX office. Immediately prior to joining WRA, she served as the civil rights director and diversity officer for the Regional Transportation District in Denver.
“I have always had a strong desire to support others, build relationships, and contribute to work larger than myself,” said Grove. “At WRA, I get to do all three. I see myself as a partner and a connector in this role — always keeping our equity lens at the forefront, recognizing our blind spots, so that we have constant awareness of how we are recommending policy and partnering with community members. This is the opportunity to make true change and dismantle systemic barriers.”
Grove is based in Denver and in her role, she will oversee WRA’s diversity, equity, and inclusion work across the seven-state region. She received a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Northern Colorado and a law degree from the University of Denver Sturm College of Law. She is also a member of the American Association for Access, Equity and Diversity.
