Austin resigns as KEA leader

COEUR d'ALENE — Shelly Austin has resigned as executive director of the Kootenai Environmental Alliance. Her final day with the organization was Friday.

“I’m thrilled for my new job and rather sad to leave this organization," she said. "It’s easy to be dedicated to the cause, clean and safe water, and it’s a bit hard to walk away."

Austin accepted a post with an arts organization and will be leaving North Idaho. She had previously worked with the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and served as executive director for southern Oregon nonprofits and as a nonprofit consultant.

Before her hire in February 2021, KEA had been without an executive director since the departure of former ED Sharon Bosely in 2018.

She was hired out of nearly 50 applicants following a nationwide search.

A statement from KEA's board of directors said they are committed to steering the organization in a way that best serves the community and the needs of local waterways.

“The dedicated board members of KEA are mapping out the future of KEA with clarity and purpose," said Cynthia Rozyla, KEA board president.

A board statement said they wish Austin well.

"We are also deeply grateful to her for the immense energy and effort she has given to strengthen and lead our organization in the past two years," the statement said.

KEA was founded in 1972. It held public meetings almost every week for 30 years to provide the public an opportunity to hear experts, political candidates and local officials address local, regional and national environmental issues.

"We have always held that an informed public is essential to safeguarding our environment," according to its website.

Austin said she is leaving KEA in good hands.

"I’ve learned a lot about the watershed, and have a deep fondness for this region," she said.