From left: Jennifer Davis, current ED; Lisa Arkin, longtime ED; Mary O'Brien, Beyond Toxics founder
We are beyond excited to formally introduce you to Jennifer Davis (she/her), new Executive Director of Beyond Toxics! Jen joined us in June, and you may have met her at Bee Jazzy alongside former ED Lisa Arkin and founder Mary O'Brien. She’s been hard at work learning about our current projects and brainstorming new ways to continue our legacy of environmental justice advocacy in the future!
Jen brings more than 20 years of experience in the nonprofit and public sectors. Her background spans education, ecological research, and environmental conservation. We know she is deeply committed to advancing equity and environmental justice throughout Oregon. She is passionate about uplifting community voices, especially those most impacted by environmental harm, and building strong, trust-based partnerships.
Originally from Virginia, Jennifer has long felt a deep connection to nature and community. She made Oregon her home in 2021, drawn by the state’s natural beauty and the spirit of grassroots environmental advocacy. That same sense of connection fuels her work and inspires her vision for a more just and sustainable future.
Jennifer holds a Master of Science in Ecology and dual Bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and Sociology. Her work is rooted in the understanding that people are central to every environmental issue, whether they are affected by it, contributing to it, or working to solve it. She is passionate about uplifting community voices, especially those most impacted by environmental harm, and building strong, trust-based partnerships.
In her role at Beyond Toxics, Jennifer leads the organization’s mission to create a thriving and just Oregon where every community has equitable access to a healthy environment. Her goals include empowering a dedicated and diverse team, fostering collaboration with partners and stakeholders across the state, and advancing bold environmental justice policies that prioritize people and communities.
Jennifer’s leadership is guided by the values of collaboration, equity, innovation, and adaptability. She envisions an environmental justice movement that is inclusive, resilient, and transformative, creating a future where justice and sustainability are achieved through collective power and shared purpose.
We are looking forward to this next chapter in Beyond Toxics’ 25-year history and hope you’ll join us in welcoming Jen, making connections, and supporting this critical work.


