The American Chestnut Foundation’s (TACF) Board of Directors is pleased to announce that Michael Goergen has been appointed as the organization’s new President & CEO and will begin in mid-September 2025. He will succeed interim President & CEO Bruce Levine.
A strategic executive with more than 25 years of leadership in the forest products and climate sectors, Michael has driven innovation, sustainability, and transformative partnerships throughout his career. As Vice President of Innovation at the U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities, he spearheaded groundbreaking initiatives including the commercialization of cellulosic nanomaterials, development of the forest sector’s first carbon accounting platform, and securing more than $45 million in funding to advance measurable climate solutions. Michael is eager to apply his expertise in research and development to advance the science of restoring the American chestnut. Building on a career of driving innovation and partnerships, he is committed to helping TACF accelerate progress toward developing blight-resistant trees and returning this iconic species to eastern US forests.
Previously, Michael served 20+ years at the Society of American Foresters, including over a decade as CEO. Earlier in his career, he held leadership positions in forest policy and programs and has been a key voice on sustainability, green building, and public-private partnerships. He holds both a Bachelor and Master of Science from the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY-ESF).
“Michael’s infectious energy and passion will inspire TACF to take our chestnut restoration efforts to new successes and I am looking forward to working with him and the chestnut community to accomplish our collaborative goals for the future,” said Dr. Liz Kramer, chair of the TACF Board of Directors.
“The American chestnut is more than a tree—it is a symbol of resilience and hope,” said Goergen. “I am honored to join TACF and work alongside our incredible scientists, staff, volunteers, and partners to bring this iconic species back to our forests and communities.”
TACF engaged Heidrick & Struggles, a leading global executive search and leadership advisory firm with a dedicated nonprofit and social impact practice, to assist in conducting the search for its new President & CEO.