The Observer, July, 2009

Devens resigns as head of citizens' council

John Devens this spring left his long-time position as executive director of the council. His resignation was accepted by the council board May 8 as it met in Valdez.

While the board seeks a permanent replacement, Donna Schantz, the organization’s director of programs, will continue as acting executive director. She has filled that role since February, when Devens began a leave of absence that continued until his resignation. Schantz, who has worked for the council since 1999, is a Valdez resident.

“On behalf of the council, I’d like to thank John for his service to the organization,” said board President Steve Lewis. “We wish him the very best in the future.”

Devens had been the council’s executive director since 1997 and was mayor of Valdez, Alaska at the time of the Exxon Valdez oil spill in 1989.

“The council does a fine job in keeping Prince William Sound safe from future oil spills,” Devens said. “I wish them well in the future work they have to do.”

Over the next few months, the council will be conducting a nationwide search for a new executive director.

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