RISE Names Leaders of Grassroots Program

RISE (Responsible Industry for a Sound Environment) named Karen Reardon director of grassroots and Elizabeth Lawder Grotos grassroots manager to lead its National Grassroots Program begun in 2006 to focus on preventing local municipalities' attempts to restrict the availability of pesticide and fertilizer products used by consumers and professionals.

Reardon will direct the RISE grassroots program in addition to her current duties as RISE director of communications. Grotos, vice president with D.C. Legislative and Regulatory Services (DCLRS) will manage program implementation.

"During the past year our program has identified and supported many willing and able grassroots allies who have shown up and made a difference on a variety of policy proposals in counties and towns across the country," said Allen James, RISE president.

"Given the depth of experience Karen and Elizabeth bring to these positions, we expect to accelerate expansion of our grassroots network in additional key states while continuing to grow the base where we're currently engaged. Members of our grassroots network can expect a seamless transition with our new leadership team and a significant increase in outreach activities," James added.

Reardon and Grotos will implement the national RISE grassroots program previously managed by Stacey Pine, who left DCLRS in mid-May to join the American Association of Colleges of Nursing as a federal lobbyist.

Reardon joined RISE in 2005 and was previously communications leader with CropLife America. Grotos was previously with U.S. Grains Council and worked for RISE for nine years.