The Group Against Smog and Pollution (GASP) is delighted to announce it has hired Laura Kuster as its new program and education manager.
"I see this as a way to maximize GASP's greatest strength; our staff - its experience and talent,” GASP Executive Director Patrick Campbell said. “Laura is a well-connected, outgoing educator and strategic thinker and I personally can’t wait to see how her skill set and passion for advocacy and education help GASP continue to grow and more effectively serve our local communities."
While the position is new to GASP, Kuster is not: She has served as the nonprofit’s part-time educator since 2019. Prior to her tenure at GASP, she worked as the YWCA Greater Pittsburgh’s health equity specialist.
Kuster earned her undergraduate degree from The College of Wooster and a master’s degree in public and international affairs from the University of Pittsburgh.
“I'm grateful for this opportunity to dedicate more time to projects that bring GASP closer to our local communities,” she said. “I'm looking forward to getting to know more colleagues in the advocacy arena as well as residents interested in our regional air quality and finding creative ways we can work together to improve conditions for us all.”
GASP President Jonathan Nadle lauded the hire, saying the additional full-time position will allow the organization to expand its educational and outreach offerings in local environmental justice areas.
“Laura has done amazing work for GASP as a part-time educator, spearheading our Fresh Voices for Clean Air initiative and taking the lead on the creation of air quality resources for local elected officials,” he said. “We can’t wait to see what she adds to our organization as a full-time staff member. We are fortunate to have her working with us.”