Brian Finlay President and CEO at Stimson Center China Program | Official website
The Stimson Center has announced a leadership change in its Environmental Security Program. Lauren Herzer Risi has been appointed as the new Senior Fellow and Director, succeeding Sally Yozell. Yozell will transition to a role as Senior Advisor, focusing on ocean and coastal resilience and marine security.
This change is part of the ongoing development of the Stimson Center's Environmental Security program, which addresses global environmental challenges. Risi brings significant experience from her previous role at the Wilson Center, where she directed initiatives related to climate resilience and mineral supply chains. She is also Vice President of the Environmental Peacebuilding Association.
Brian Finlay, President and CEO of the Stimson Center, expressed enthusiasm about Risi joining the team: “We are delighted to welcome Lauren to Stimson and to see this dynamic team evolve.” He praised both Risi's fresh perspective and Yozell's contributions: “Sally pioneered an environmental security program that has yielded tangible impact.”
Risi expressed her commitment to advancing the program: “I’m honored to step into this role and build on the important work Sally has advanced with such dedication and insight.” She emphasized Stimson’s unique position in addressing environmental threats linked to national and global security.
Under Yozell’s leadership, the program became a leader in combating illegal fishing and enhancing seafood traceability. Her continued involvement as Senior Advisor aims to support these efforts further.
Yozell commented on her tenure: “It’s been my honor to serve as the Director... I’m pleased to support [Lauren] in this new chapter—to amplify the program’s reach.”
The Stimson Center remains committed to promoting international security through research, engagement, and policy innovation.
