HARTFORD – The Connecticut Green Bank this week appointed a longtime environmental steward from Norwalk to join its board.
Lisa Shanahan, who was appointed by Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney, has a long record of public service, environmental advocacy, and legal and governance experience.
“Her hands-on experience with land conservation and sustainability policy will help the Green Bank continue its critical work investing in clean energy and environmental infrastructure across Connecticut,” said Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff.
She has served on the Norwalk Land Trust since 2012, including as vice president from 2016 to 2021 and president from 2021 until the organization’s recent merger with the Aspetuck Land Trust, where she now serves on the board. She was appointed to the Norwalk Conservation Commission in 2019 and served three terms on the Norwalk Common Council, where she chaired the Ordinance Committee and helped advance numerous sustainability-focused initiatives.
“I am honored to join the Board of Directors of the Connecticut Green Bank, an organization that has pioneered the bridge between environmental stewardship and economic development,” Shanahan said. “Throughout my career, I have seen firsthand how local initiatives, such as sustainable land use and green infrastructure, can strengthen our communities.”
As chair of the Council’s first Sustainability Committee, Shanahan led efforts to engage stakeholders and develop Norwalk’s first conservation plan, while also working closely with city leadership to advance ordinances related to trees, pesticides, Complete Streets, and other environmental priorities.
“Her extensive background in municipal governance and her proven track record of advancing local green initiatives align perfectly with our mission to confront climate change,” said Lonnie Reed, Connecticut Green Bank chair. “Lisa’s hands-on experience and her deep understanding of environmental policy will be instrumental as we continue to scale our investments in environmental infrastructure to every corner of Connecticut.”
In addition to her public service, Shanahan is an attorney. After earning her undergraduate degree from Dartmouth College and her law degree from the University of Pennsylvania Law School, she practiced law at McDermott Will & Emery in Chicago and later worked at The Northern Trust Co.
“Lisa’s addition to our Board comes at a pivotal moment as the Green Bank continues to ensure that the benefits of the green economy reach every household in Connecticut,” said Bryan Garcia, President and CEO of the Connecticut Green Bank. “We are eager to integrate her local perspective, expertise in municipal policy, and passion for community-driven conservation into our statewide strategy.”
