COLLEGE PARK, Md. – The Maryland Clean Energy Center (MCEC) announced a historic appointment to its Board of Directors: Dr. Karen Wayland, CEO of Gridwise Alliance. She has been named the first female Chair in the organization’s history.
As Chair of the Board of Directors, Dr. Wayland will provide crucial leadership in shaping strategic goals of MCEC, reviewing policies, and cultivating key relationships essential for driving progress in the clean energy landscape. Her extensive background includes years of impactful work with the U.S. Department of Energy and with elected officials on Capitol Hill. Currently, as CEO of Gridwise Alliance, Dr. Wayland leads a diverse membership of electricity industry stakeholders dedicated to accelerating innovation that delivers a more secure, reliable, resilient, and affordable grid, all while supporting the decarbonization of the U.S. economy.
“It is an immense honor to step into this role and contribute to the vital work of the Maryland Clean Energy Center,” said Dr. Karen Wayland. “Maryland is at the forefront of clean energy innovation, and I am eager to collaborate with the board, MCEC staff, and our partners to advance policies and initiatives that will strengthen our energy infrastructure, create economic opportunities, and ensure a sustainable future for all Marylanders.”
Katherine Magruder, Executive Director of MCEC, expressed her enthusiasm for the appointment. “We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Karen Wayland as our new Board Chair. Her unparalleled expertise in energy policy and grid modernization, combined with her visionary leadership, will be invaluable as MCEC navigates the evolving clean energy landscape. This is a truly historic moment for our organization, and we are confident that Dr. Wayland will lead us to new heights in advancing the clean energy goals for all Marylanders.”
This appointment is a significant step forward for gender diversity in the traditionally male-dominated energy sector. Dr. Wayland’s leadership marks a new chapter for MCEC and fosters a more inclusive future for the industry.
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Maryland Clean Energy Center (MCEC) accelerates a clean energy future by driving economic development, fostering innovation, providing access to capital, and enabling environmental justice.