The Methow Valley Citizens Council, now in its 50^th year, is excited to announce the hire of their next Executive Director, Rebekah Phillips.

“After a long and thoughtful search process, MVCC is thrilled to welcome Rebekah Phillips as our next Executive Director,” said Board President Tom Jones. “Rebekah brings 15 years of experience guiding nonprofit organizations and is passionate about preserving the rural character and natural environment of the Methow and Okanogan valleys now and for future generations to enjoy.”

With more than two decades of non-profit management experience, Rebekah comes to the Methow Valley Citizens Council from Portland, Oregon. Originally from Ashland, Rebekah grew up camping, hiking, backpacking, skiing, foraging, and fishing across the Pacific Northwest, from Northern California to the North Cascades – experiences that helped shape her deep commitment to environmental stewardship, equity, and community-building.

In her most recent role as Executive Director of The Mazamas, an outdoor recreation and climbing education organization, Rebekah expanded membership and philanthropic programs, collaborated with staff, board, and volunteers on the launch of a new strategic plan, and strengthened partnerships with public land agencies to support responsible outdoor access and conservation. Rebekah has also held senior leadership roles in both the performing arts and higher education sectors, where she has guided brand, content, and communications strategies.

With service at the center of her ethos, she has maintained active volunteer commitments with a range of organizations from the Oregon Historical Society to the Oregon Donkey Sanctuary, as well as Trailkeepers of Oregon, Johnson Creek Watershed Council, the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center, and others. A certified naturalist, distance runner, and environmental history enthusiast, Rebekah enjoys being in nature, gentle adventure, and growing food. She is a graduate of the Oberlin College Conservatory of Music.

“I’m delighted to be joining MVCC as their next Executive Director and look forward to working alongside this incredible community to facilitate new opportunities for listening, learning, and leading the way toward healthy ecosystems, shared stewardship, and strong, engaged voices for Okanogan County,” said the incoming director, Phillips.

“I’ve spent my life immersed in the wondrous landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, and can’t wait to meet the staff, volunteers, and community members who are working hard to protect this region’s unique character and natural environment and building sustainability and resilience in the Methow Valley and beyond.”