Shape the Future of Environmental Journalism
As SEJ prepares for our next Board of Directors election, we invite you to take an active role in shaping the future of environmental reporting.
Run for the board, submit a question for candidates and cast your vote!
We're seeking candidates with a diversity of backgrounds who are ready to bring fresh ideas, lived and professional experience and a commitment to strengthening SEJ's mission, our global community and the field of environmental journalism. This year, five Active category seats are open.
To access Elections related links, please log in to your SEJ account and go to the 2026 SEJ Board Elections page.
Important Dates
- Sept. 21: Call for Candidates
- Oct. 26: Deadline to Submit Intent to Run and Meet Candidate Eligibility
- Oct. 26: Deadline for Voting Eligibility
- Nov. 5: Ballots Distributed
- Nov. 7: Virtual Candidates Forum
- Dec. 5: Annual Member Meeting & Voting Ends
Who Can Run?
Active members in good standing are eligible for this year’s election cycle.
Eligibility Criteria
- Active member
- Dues paid through October 26, 2026
- Must meet SEJ’s membership requirements
Check your membership status by logging in to your SEJ profile to review your membership category and expiration.
How To Run
Complete and submit your Intent to Run form and prepare a Candidate Statement (max. 500 words) that includes:
- Biographical information
- Your vision for SEJ and why you're running
- Include any areas of expertise you'd bring to the board (e.g., fundraising, membership, DEI or programs)
Applying candidates must also submit a photo of themselves.
To access the Intent to Run and Submit a Question for Candidates forms, you must be a current SEJ member and access your SEJ account.
Candidates Forum
The Elections Committee will host a live, virtual Candidates Forum on November 7 at 1pm ET, an opportunity for members to hear directly from candidates. All candidates are encouraged to participate.
All SEJ members, regardless of membership category, are invited to submit questions for candidates in advance through the question crowdsourcing form.
All candidates may also optionally submit a pre-recorded, short video in response to member-submitted questions. Instructions will be sent to confirmed candidates after October 26, when the Submit a Question for Candidates form closes.
What It Means To Serve
Serving on the SEJ board is your opportunity to guide SEJ’s future, contribute ideas, and your expertise and perspectives from the field or classroom. You’ll play an integral role in driving SEJ initiatives, and advocating for fellow members and our industry in this critical moment for environmental journalism.
Learn More About Being a Board Member
Get Involved!
Whether you choose to run for the board or simply vote, your participation is vital to the future of SEJ, our community and environmental journalism.
Questions? Contact the Elections Committee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who runs SEJ's elections?
SEJ’s elections are overseen by an independent, four-member Elections Committee, with a board liaison as a fifth voting member. The committee ensures that every election is fair, secure, and in compliance with SEJ bylaws and policies.
2026 Elections Committee:
Christine Heinrichs (Chair)
Chuck Quirmbach
Luis Joel Méndez González
Tristan Ahtone
Caleigh Wells, Board Liaison
Jingyao Yu, Staff
What are the key dates?
- Sept. 21: Call for Candidates
- Oct. 26: Deadline to Submit Intent to Run and Meet Candidate Eligibility
- Oct. 26: Deadline for Voting Eligibility
- Nov. 5: Ballots Distributed
- Nov. 7: Virtual Candidates Forum
- Dec. 5: Annual Member Meeting & Voting Ends
Who can run?
Any SEJ member in the Active-category and in good standing. In 2026, five Active seats are open.
What do I need to submit to run?
- Complete and submit your Intent to Run form and prepare a Candidate Statement (max. 500 words) that includes:
- Biographical information
- Your vision for SEJ and why you're running
- Include any areas of expertise you'd bring to the board (e.g., fundraising, membership, DEI or programs)
Applying candidates must also submit a photo of themselves.
To access the Intent to Run form, you must be a current SEJ member and access your SEJ account.
How long is a board term?
Board members serve a three-year term, starting from when they're elected.
How are board members elected?
Eligible members cast ballots online through AssociationVoting, a secure software platform vetted and approved by the SEJ Board. All votes are anonymous, and results are certified by the Elections Committee. This fall election, only Active-category members are eligible to vote.
When does the election happen?
Ballots go out on November 5, 2026. Voting closes at the Annual Members Meeting on December 5, 2026.
Who can vote for the SEJ Board?
This year, Active-category SEJ members in good standing who meet the October 26 voter eligibility deadline.
How do I vote?
Eligible voters will receive a secure electronic ballot by email from AssociationVoting.
Where can I read candidates’ statements?
Once candidates are confirmed by the Elections Committee, you’ll be able to read their statements on the members-only page. To access them, log in to your SEJ account.
Have questions not listed here? Reach out to the Elections Committee!
SEJ 2026 Elections Committee
Christine Heinrichs (Chair)
Chuck Quirmbach
Luis Joel Méndez González
Tristan Ahtone
Caleigh Wells, Board Liaison
Jingyao Yu, Staff
