Safe States Alliance Thanks Retiring Executive Director and Announces New Executive Director

Online, December 16, 2024 (Newswire.com) - Safe States Alliance, the nation's only membership association solely dedicated to strengthening the practice of injury and violence prevention, is honoring the legacy of its retiring Executive Director, Rich Hamburg, while also announcing the selection of current Deputy Director Sharon Gilmartin into the Executive Director role, effective January 1, 2025. This transition marks a pivotal moment in the organization's ongoing efforts to prevent injuries and violence across the country.

After nearly seven years of dedicated service and strong leadership to Safe States, Rich Hamburg will retire, leaving behind an indelible mark on the organization and the field of injury and violence prevention. Under Rich's leadership, Safe States expanded its national presence, developed impactful programs, and successfully advocated for policies that have made communities safer and healthier.

"On behalf of the Executive Committee, staff, and partners, we want to express our deepest gratitude to Rich for his exceptional leadership, dedication, and tireless contributions," said Lisa Roth, Safe States President. "Under his guidance, Safe States has made incredible strides in advancing injury and violence prevention nationwide. His dedication and vision have been instrumental in shaping the organizations' collective progress and success."

With Rich's retirement, Safe States is pleased to announce that Sharon Gilmartin, the current Deputy Director, has been selected to move into the role of Executive Director. Sharon has been an integral part of the organization for 10 years, demonstrating exceptional dedication, expertise, and passion for injury and violence prevention. With a strong background in public health and a deep knowledge of Safe States, coupled with her ability to forge strong partnerships and drive innovative initiatives, Sharon is uniquely qualified to lead the organization in this next chapter.

"It's an honor to serve the field of injury and prevention in this way. Our members work tirelessly to make communities safer," said Sharon Gilmartin. "As the new Executive Director, the opportunity to build on the relationships and efforts we have forged over the years will only enhance this work, benefitting individuals across the country."

As Safe States looks toward the future, the organization remains committed to its vision of being the recognized leader and driving force in understanding and preventing injuries and violence, particularly among vulnerable populations. Under Sharon's leadership, Safe States will continue to advance the field of injury and violence prevention through innovative, equitable, and upstream approaches, as outlined in its recently released 2025-2027 strategic plan.

For more information about Safe States and its programs, visit www.safestates.org.

Source: Safe States Alliance