DENVER – Governor Gary R. Herbert (Utah), Chairman of the Western Governors’ Association, announced today that James D. Ogsbury, a native Westerner with extensive experience on issues important to the region, has been selected as WGA’s new executive director.
“We are extremely pleased that Jim has accepted our offer,” Herbert said. “His qualifications in the public policy arena are impressive, and he has all the right skills to lead our bipartisan organization.”
Ogsbury will leave his position as legislative director for the League of Arizona Cities and Towns. A graduate of Harvard College and Arizona State University College of Law, Ogsbury has represented public and private sector clients before the U.S. Congress and executive branch agencies and served as the clerk and staff director for the House of Representatives, Committee on Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development.
“Jim’s diverse experience and understanding of Western issues are exactly what we were looking for in a new director,” said Gov. John Hickenlooper, WGA Vice Chairman. “He was born, raised and has worked in the West, but he has the experience working in Washington, D.C. that will help ensure Western policy positions are addressed in federal legislation and in agency decisions.”
“I am honored the Governors have chosen me to be the new director of WGA,” said Ogsbury. “Western Governors are known throughout the country for their thoughtful bipartisan policies and innovative solutions for Western issues, including energy, water, wildlife and forest health.”
Ogsbury is expected to be on board as executive director in November. He replaces Pam Inmann, who retired earlier this year.
