Speakers

Samantha has significant experience in environmental law, policy, and economic development, dedicating over 30 years to enhancing community growth and resilience by managing federal programs addressing air, water, land, climate, hazardous waste, superfund, and lead issues. As a former U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) Director, her career highlights include leading economic revitalization and sustainable development initiatives across Appalachia, building stakeholder capacity to promoting responsible private public partnerships to ensure long-term prosperity for all. Samanatha counsels clients on a variety of U.S. EPA enforcement issues arising under the 17 federally enforceable regulatory areas.In her 33-year career with the U.S. EPA's Region 3 office, which serves Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia and 7 federally recognized tribes, she utilized her knowledge of environmental law and policy to forge partnerships that benefited both economic development and community health. Samantha's extensive background in environmental law has been pivotal in navigating the challenges associated with these projects, underpinning her approach to achieving comprehensive community revitalization and development.In addition, she managed Region 3 programs including Environmental Justice (EJ), Children's Health, Environmental Education, Opportunity Zones, Tribal Program, the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the Endangered Species Act, and the National Historic Preservation Act.