Molly Schar Named as First NSGIC Executive Director

The National States Geographic Information Council (NSGIC) has announced that Molly Schar has joined the organisation as its first executive director. Schar, an established non-profit executive with significant leadership experience growing organisational programmes and revenue, took up the post on 20 June.

NSGIC board president Chris Diller, the GIS Coordinator for the Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs, said the hiring of Schar is the result of nearly two years of planning by the Board. With Schar, NSGIC is poised to boost efforts to engage members from all states, territories and recognised tribal governments as it continues to strive toward the implementation of a National Spatial Data Infrastructure, Diller added.

For 25 years NSGIC has provided a unified state voice on geographic information and technology issues. NSGIC leaders provide input and advice to public and private decision-makers on national issues impacting the states. NSGIC advocates for efficient and effective government through the prudent adoption and use of geospatial information and technologies, and its members work to address strategic priorities at and across all levels of government. NSGIC also provides a venue for professional mentoring, networking, and state-to-state exchange of best practices for map technologies.

Schar stated she is impressed by the passion of NSGIC members. She has come to understand the significant implications of geographic information technology and data. NSGIC’s members are leading the way, and Schar called it a great honour to facilitate this intergovernmental and private sector cooperation, coordination, collaboration and partnership.