Science for Georgia Executive Director Steps Down After Move to Northern Virginia
In a candid farewell letter to the community, Amy Sharma announced her departure as Executive Director of Science for Georgia, citing a cross-state relocation to Arlington, Virginia. Sharma, who has been a part of the organization since 2019, wrote that her husband accepted a new job in Northern Virginia earlier this year, making it impossible to maintain the on-the-ground presence required to effectively serve Georgians from afar.
“It’s bad optics for the ED of an organization advocating for Georgians to live in Virginia,” Sharma wrote in the message to the Science for Georgia community. “Most of my job is based on showing up — and it’s hard to serve you all when I am now a plane ride away.”
Building a Statewide Scientific Footprint
During her tenure, Sharma oversaw a period of civic engagement and program expansion across the Peach State. From late-night stakeouts at the General Assembly to grueling drives for regional town halls, her leadership style was defined by constant physical presence.
Reflecting on the rigorous schedule, Sharma noted that she crisscrossed the state to connect with residents in Valdosta, Waycross, Augusta, Columbus, Jesup, and LaGrange. Under her leadership, the organization established several signature initiatives:
- An Environmental Justice and Climate Protection conference.
- A widely cited data center map tracking infrastructure growth.
- The Data4Ga platform, designed to contextualize critical local policy issues.
- A mentorship program hosting over 50 interns.
- Sought-after misinformation training workshops alongside monthly Science Junctions and Climate Survival Trainings.
One of the organization’s notable legislative impacts occurred when its advocacy efforts helped stall a Georgia Power vote, prompting the Senate to adjourn rather than advance a measure the utility anticipated losing. “We are small but mighty!” Sharma wrote. “And we made Science Matter Here!”
Looking Ahead to New Leadership
As Sharma transitions out of her role, she expressed confidence in the remaining team members, noting that Patrick will continue managing events, Michael will handle science communication, and Jessica will oversee visual information delivery. She also pointed to a lingering regret regarding staff compensation, expressing hope that incoming leadership will secure increased funding during upcoming winter fundraising campaigns.
The outgoing director closed her final address by referencing the epilogue of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, thanking the community for its years of partnership and urging supporters to keep relying on fact-based research to guide public policy.
