Derek Walker Appointed Executive Director of the Arthur L. Irving Institute for Energy and Society

Dartmouth has appointed Derek Walker as the executive director of the Arthur L. Irving Institute for Energy and Society, effective March 10.

Walker brings with him an impressive 17-year tenure at the Environmental Defense Fund, where he led interdisciplinary teams comprising scientists, economists, lawyers, and policy experts to advance innovative climate and energy transition solutions.

In his recent role as vice president, global energy transition, Walker led EDF's strategy to rapidly and equitably deploy clean energy in key regions. He also serves as an adjunct professor of international climate law at Vermont Law and Graduate School; board member of the Institute for Sustainable Communities; steering committee member of the Bluegreen Alliance; and member of the Early Years Climate Action Task Force. Walker earned his bachelor's degree from the College of William and Mary and spent a year studying at the University of Oxford.

"Derek brings the vision, experience, and ability to engage with stakeholders that are needed for this critical role," says Geoff Parker, faculty director of the Irving Institute. "His leadership skills and proven ability to bring together diverse constituencies, including frontline communities, to develop creative solutions will be an asset to advancing the Institute's mission to accelerate an affordable, reliable, and equitable clean energy transition for the benefit of society."

"The Irving Institute is rapidly emerging as a leading hub and catalyst for groundbreaking research, cutting-edge education, and dynamic networks of leaders in the energy and climate space," Walker says. "I am inspired and energized to co-lead the next chapter of its impact for our world."

Scott Fisher '93, Thayer '93, Tuck '98, the chair of the Irving Institute Advisory Board, says, "Derek brings extensive experience in shaping community-focused policy solutions that leverage technological advances and business capabilities to address the world's energy and climate challenges. He also has a proven dedication to preparing the next generation of leaders to take on these critical issues. Derek's co-leadership of the Irving Institute, in tandem with Faculty Director Geoff Parker, will be powerful in further advancing the Institute's mission on both the national and international stages."