SWANA Names Amy Lestition Burke as Executive Director

Silver Spring, MD – The Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA), today announced it has appointed Amy Lestition Burke, MA, CAE, FASAE, as Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer. Lestition Burke, a seasoned association executive, will usher in a new vision of innovation at SWANA. 

“It is an honor to lead SWANA and represent an industry that impacts communities every day,” said Lestition Burke. “I’m committed to working closely with SWANA’s Board of Directors, Advisory Board, committees, volunteers, members, chapters, partners, stakeholders, and staff team to build on, accelerate, and lead its transformation from solid waste management to resource management.”

Lestition Burke joins SWANA with her outstanding record of leadership and association knowledge. She previously served as the Executive Director of two associations—Special Libraries Association and Association Media & Publishing. Prior to joining SWANA, she served as the Vice President, Industry Solutions for the Consumer Brands Association, working with partners on a variety of issues, including sustainability.  

Lestition Burke has a track record of growing partnerships as well as increasing revenue. She understands how to work with Boards of Directors on policy, strategy, and governance. Moreover, she is passionate and committed to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in the workplace.

“We are excited to welcome Amy as SWANA’s Executive Director/CEO,” said Art Mercer, SWANA board president. “Amy’s combined experience serving as an Executive Director/CEO for several associations and her understanding of industry sustainability initiatives, will provide new leadership to SWANA and further strengthen our Association and its position in solid waste and resource management." 

As the new Executive Director/CEO, Lestition Burke will oversee the strategic direction of SWANA, build partnerships, membership, and foster innovation within the organization. She will work closely with the SWANA Board of Directors, staff, and members to advance the association's mission — promoting sustainable and environmentally responsible solid waste management practices. 

Lestition Burke holds a Master degree in International Affairs from The George Washington University. She is a Fellow of the American Society of Association Executives and holds a CAE-certified association executive, and a certificate in DEI in the Workplace from the University of Southern Florida. She has also held many volunteer leadership positions serving the association community.

“SWANA eagerly looks forward to Amy’s leadership and the opportunities it will bring to the association as we advance the solid waste and resource management profession,” said Mercer. 

Lestition Burke will start her new role on November 9, 2023.