NSGIC Adds Resource to Increase Coordination Among States and Strengthen Spatial Data Infrastructure Advocacy

FOREST HILL, MD, June 15, 2016 – The National States Geographic Information Council (NSGIC) has announced that Molly Schar will join the organization as its first executive director. Schar, an established nonprofit executive with significant leadership experience growing organizational programs and revenue, will take the post on June 20.

“The hiring of Molly is the result of nearly two years of planning by the Board. I’m thrilled to have Molly as NSGIC’s first Executive Director. With Molly, NSGIC is poised to boost efforts to engage members from all states, territories and recognized tribal governments as we continue to strive toward the implementation of a National Spatial Data Infrastructure,” said NSGIC Board President Chris Diller, the GIS Coordinator for the Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs.

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.

“I am impressed by the passion of NSGIC members. Quickly, I’ve come to understand the significant implications of geographic information technology and data. Our members are leading the way, and I have the great honor of facilitating this intergovernmental and private sector cooperation, coordination, collaboration, and partnership,” said Schar. 

The National States Geographic Information Council (NSGIC) promotes statewide geospatial coordination activities in all states and advocates for states in national geospatial policy initiatives that support a national spatial data infrastructure. We work toward our vision of all levels of government becoming highly effective and efficient through coordinated development and use of geospatial data and technologies. Our members represent state Geographic Information Officers (GIOs), state agency GIS heads, leaders of the statewide coordination council, federal agencies, tribal government, local government, the private sector, academia and other professional organizations. Learn more at www.nsgic.org.