Wynecta Fisher
Director, Mayor’s Office of Environmental Affairs
City of New Orleans

If dissonance between local, state and federal agencies has been the rule in recent years, then Wynecta Fisher has proven exceptions are possible. The director of the Mayor’s Office of Environmental Affairs for the City of New Orleans has been a harmonizing force in her area of endeavor.

Despite being the only remaining employee of the office after Katrina – and a relatively new one at that – Ms. Fisher swung into action to tackle the massive post-disaster environmental needs and compliance issues the city faced. She quickly educated herself on coastal erosion issues and studied state and federal policy. Along the way, she was able to forge critical relationships with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources, and other state and federal agencies. She also won the confidence of environmental organizations and residents affected by coastal erosion and other environmental issues. Instead of waiting to staff up or complaining about challenges, Ms. Fisher took decisive action and pursued competitive coastal restoration grants on short notice, netting the city millions in funds.

With initiative, focus and can-do approach, Ms. Fisher provides an outstanding example of quiet leadership and collaboration.